Food History of Jebel Rum, Wadi Rum, Jordan
The food history of Wadi Rum is deeply intertwined with the Bedouin culture that has inhabited the region for centuries. Traditional Bedouin cuisine is the essence of culinary experience in Wadi Rum, heavily featuring a simple yet flavorful array of ingredients suited to the desert environment. Ingredients like rice, vegetables, and a variety of meats (excluding cow due to your request), are commonly used. Spices and herbs are essential in adding character to their meals, with a distinct use of cardamom, za'atar, and sumac.
Bread is a staple in Bedouin diet, often baked in the embers of a campfire. The Zarb, a traditional Bedouin barbecue cooked in a pit underground, is a special culinary practice unique to the desert areas of Jordan, including Wadi Rum. Locally sourced, fresh ingredients and communal eating are integral parts of the food culture, typically enjoyed in the company of fellow diners seated around a communal platter.
Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes in Jebel Rum, Wadi Rum, Jordan
- Mansaf (Non-veg): Jordan's national dish made with lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt and served with rice.
- Falafel (Veg): Deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas and fava beans seasoned with herbs and spices.
- Humus (Veg): Creamy dip made from mashed chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic.
- Tabbouleh (Veg): Refreshing salad made with finely chopped parsley, mint, tomato, onion, bulgur wheat, and seasoned with olive oil and lemon juice.
- Maqluba (Non-veg): Upside-down dish of rice, eggplant, and chicken or lamb, flavored with a mix of spices.
- Mutabbal (Veg): Smoky eggplant dip blended with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
- Fatteh (Non-veg): A layered dish consisting of toasted bread, rice, and lamb, topped with yogurt and pine nuts.
- Baba Ganoush (Veg): A smoky, charred eggplant dip mixed with tahini, olive oil, and various seasonings.
- Galayet Bandora (Veg): A popular tomato stew with garlic, olive oil, and seasonings, often served with rice.
- Warak Enab & Kousa Mahshi (Veg/Non-veg): Grape leaves and zucchini stuffed with rice and either meat (skipping cow) or vegetarian fillings.
Top Famous Restaurants in Jebel Rum, Wadi Rum, Jordan
- Al Captain Restaurant
- Address: Wadi Rum Village, Jordan
Famous for: Mansaf (Non-veg)
- Rum Stars Camp and Restaurant
- Address: Protected Area, Wadi Rum, Jordan
Famous for: Traditional Zarb (Non-veg) made with chicken or lamb
- The Bedouin Meditation Camp Restaurant
- Address: Inside Wadi Rum Protected Area, Jordan
Famous for: Local Bedouin cuisine Buffet (Veg/Non-veg options available)
- Sun City Camp Restaurant
- Address: Sun City Camp, Wadi Rum Desert, Jordan
Famous for: Variety of local dishes, including vegetarian options
- Wadi Rum Night Luxury Camp
- Address: Wadi Rum Protected Area, Jordan
Famous for: Bedouin feasts with a variety of dishes (Veg/Non-veg)
These restaurants offer experiences to savor authentic Jordanian food, with an emphasis on the Bedouin cooking style that is characteristic of the Wadi Rum region. Many will allow guests to enjoy meals in a traditional setting, often outdoors under the stars for a unique dining adventure.