How to Eat Like a Pro in Oman – A Fusion of Middle Eastern and Indian Fare

Planning to spend a few days in Oman? Omani culture and heritage are rich, but the real treat for foodies is the exotic dining scene in the country. Omani food features a wonderful mix of traditional Middle Eastern fare as well as a blend of cuisine from other cultures such as Indian and African, thanks to its past as a popular trading hub in the region. From hearty rice dishes to wraps and tips on the right way to dig in like a local, keep reading to learn more about Oman’s food culture.

Image by olgazeren from Pixabay 

The Key Component of Omani Cuisine

Once you’re in Oman, you’ll see that most of the Omani food scene is dominated heavily by rice. From Majboos (also known as Kabsa) to Kabouli, rice and meat dishes are a staple of this country, and each household likes to add their own twist to the dishes when making them.

 So what are Majboos/Kabsa and Kabouli? The former is a dish made of aromatically spiced rice which is cooked with saffron and cardamom. The deep flavour that this dish imparts is thanks to the fact that it is cooked in the juices that are leftover from cooking the meat accompaniments, which are usually chicken or lamb.

 How is it made? The meat and rice are cooked with the meat being cooked before the rice, using garlic and onions as well as spices. Long-grained rice is used for this dish and is cooked separately with saffron and cardamom, as well as the juice from the cooked meat. Sometimes, depending on the household, cooked tomato also features a key flavour in this fragrant rice dish. Kabsa or Majboos is usually made at home for special occasions or celebrations and is a real favourite. It is one of the most popular Omani/Arabian dishes worldwide (variations of this dish are made across most of the Arab nations).

 Kabouli is another traditional dish based on rice. It’s actually quite similar to the Biriyani dish of India. It’s made of Basmati rice and then mixed with an aromatic Omani spice blend which comprises cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom among other spices. Accompanying the rice, you’ll find fried onion and chunks of meat such as chicken. And to garnish the dish, Omani’s use ingredients such as chickpeas, nuts, and dates.

 The World Famous Shawarma

Anyone familiar with Arab cuisine is likely to have come across this iconic dish. Essentially a delicious wrap, it’s made from flatbread that has been rolled up to house a tasty mix of grilled meat, onions, and pickled vegetables. Hummus is also often added to the mix. Shawarma has become a ubiquitous dish throughout the world, and many of the Oman restaurants that you come across are likely to feature this dish. From restaurants at upscale resorts such as Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara to small roadside eateries, the Shawarma transcends all boundaries to feature prominently as a favourite dish of Oman and the Middle East.

 How to Eat Like an Omani

Oftentimes, if you are invited to a local’s house, they will prepare a feast for you. While some may serve it on a table, the traditional way is to set up all the food on the floor on a sheet, while you sit down next to it on the floor and tuck in along with your hosts. Remember to remove your shoes and also be prepared to eat with your hands. If you’ve never done it before, just do as your host does. Just remember to be considerate of the local customs and traditions, and your hosts are sure to be understanding in case you get anything wrong.