Khasab Fort: A Culinary Journey
Khasab Fort, a picturesque stronghold located in the coastal town of Khasab in Oman, offers not just a glimpse into the region's rich history but also an opportunity to explore the varied Omani cuisine influenced by a melting pot of flavors and traditions. Its strategic location by the sea has brought in diverse food influences and ingredients from India, Africa, and Persia, creating a unique culinary culture in the region.
Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Khasab
- Shuwa: A festive dish, typically non-veg, where marinated meat is slow-cooked in an underground sand oven for up to 48 hours. Rich in spices, Shuwa is a celebratory meal usually enjoyed during Eid.
- Mashuai: Another delectable non-veg dish that consists of spit-grilled kingfish served with rice and a tangy lemon sauce, reflecting the coastal influence on Omani cuisine.
- Majboos: This is non-veg, similar to biryani, made with spiced rice and either chicken or fish, showcasing the Indian influence on the local cuisine.
- Mushaltat: A soft and savory flatbread that is versatile enough to be filled with anything from cheese to honey or meat, making both veg and non-veg options available.
- Qabuli: A non-veg rice dish cooked with meat, usually lamb, and an assortment of spices and dried fruits, another example of the exquisite layering of flavors in Omani cooking.
- Harees: This non-veg dish made with wheat and meat is a comforting and hearty staple often enjoyed during Ramadan and other festivals.
- Halwa: A beloved Omani sweet that is veg, thick and sticky, often made with rose water, dates, and various nuts, designed to satisfy the sweet tooth of every visitor.
- Fatteh: Normally a veg dish loaded with chickpeas, yogurt, and crispy bread, making for a texturally rich and satisfying meal.
- Madrouba: Another comforting non-veg dish where rice is cooked with chicken or fish until it becomes a thick porridge, then spiced up and often garnished with fried onions.
- Lokhemat: Delicious veg dessert balls made from flour and yeast, fried until golden, and then drizzled with date syrup or honey, reflecting the region's love for dates.
Top Famous Restaurants in Khasab and Their Specialties
- Al Shamaliah Grill Restaurant
- - Address: Al Khasab Main Road, Khasab, Oman
- - Famous Food: Grilled fish and kebabs (Non-Veg)
- Khasab Hotel Restaurant
- - Address: Khasab Coastal Road, Khasab, Oman
- - Famous Food: Traditional Omani dishes like Majboos (Non-Veg)
- Telegraph Island Restaurant
- - Address: Khasab Port, Khasab, Oman
- - Famous Food: Seafood dishes, particularly the Mashuai (Non-Veg)
- Wadi Qada Restaurant
- - Address: Near Lulu Hypermarket, Khasab, Oman
- - Famous Food: Variety of Middle Eastern dishes, with veg and non-veg options
- Bassmah Restaurant
- - Address: Khasab, Oman
- - Famous Food: Omani Halwa (Veg) and traditional coffee
- Dhow Cruise Dinner
- - Experience: A unique way to enjoy a meal while taking a dhow cruise along the fjords of Musandam, where buffet-style dinners often feature a mix of Omani and international cuisine, both veg and non-veg options.