Food In Sur

Food History of Sur, Oman

Sur, a picturesque port city located in the eastern region of Oman, has a rich history that is intricately tied to maritime trade and a deep connection with the sea. Historically, Sur has been a key trading hub in the region due to its strategic location, which has influenced its cuisine with an array of spices and flavors brought from Asia, Africa, and other parts of the Middle East.

As a coastal city, Sur's culinary traditions are deeply rooted in seafood, with local fishermen bringing in the freshest catch for traditional dishes. The city's connection to the sea is reflected in its love for such fish as kingfish, tuna, and sardines. The traditional cooking methods often include grilling, frying, or simmering in rich, aromatic spices. Additionally, Omani cuisine is known for its liberal use of an assortment of spices, herbs, limes, and marinades that are passed down through generations.

Rice is a staple in Sur, often served with meats and vegetables. The influence of Indian cuisine is notable in many parts of Omani cuisine, including the popular use of biryani (a mixed rice dish). However, due to Islamic dietary laws, dishes in Sur rarely include pork, and alcohol is not commonly used in cooking.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Sur, Oman

1. Shuwa (Non-Veg): A festive Omani dish where marinated lamb or goat is cooked in an underground sand oven for up to two days.
2. Grilled Kingfish (Non-Veg): Fresh kingfish marinated with local spices and grilled to perfection.
3. Mashuai (Non-Veg): A dish consisting of spit-grilled kingfish served with fragrant rice and a lemon sauce.
4. Qabuli (Non-Veg): Spiced rice topped with tender meat, traditionally cooked with cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon.
5. Harees (Non-Veg): A wheat-based porridge mixed with meat and a blend of spices, slow-cooked to a creamy consistency.
6. Falafel (Veg): Deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, commonly served with tahini or hummus.
7. Majboos (Non-Veg): A spiced rice dish that is commonly cooked with chicken, saffron, and a variety of Omani spices.
8. Halwa (Veg): A sweet, sticky dessert made from sugars, rosewater, and various nuts, flavored with cardamom and saffron.
9. Fattoush (Veg): A Levantine bread salad made from toasted or fried pieces of pita bread combined with mixed greens and other vegetables.
10. Tabbouleh (Veg): A refreshing salad dish made with parsley, mint, bulgur, tomatoes, and seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, and salt.

Top Famous Restaurants in Sur, Oman

Zaki Restaurant

Address: Al Ayjah, Sur, Oman

Famous Food: Shuwa (Non-Veg), Seafood Platters (Non-Veg)

Al-Mukhtar Restaurant

Address: Al Aise Street, Sur, Oman

Famous Food: Grilled Kingfish (Non-Veg), Qabuli (Non-Veg)

Bahriyat Restaurant

Address: Sur Plaza Hotel, Sur, Oman

Famous Food: Majboos (Non-Veg), Omani Lobster (Non-Veg)

Sahari Restaurant

Address: Sur Beach Resort, Al Aise St., Sur, Oman

Famous Food: Omani Shrimp Curry (Non-Veg), Falafel (Veg)

Sur Beach Hotel Restaurant

Address: Sur Beach Hotel, Al Aise St., Sur, Oman

Famous Food: Mashuai (Non-Veg), Halwa (Veg)

Al Bustan Restaurant

Address: Sharqiya Region, Sur, Oman

Famous Food: Fattoush (Veg), Lamb Kebabs (Non-Veg)