Last updated on October 18th, 2023 at 02:26 pm
Mansaf, the national dish of Jordan, is a culinary delight that has stood the test of time. This traditional meal, steeped in history and culture, is more than just food—it’s a symbol of Jordanian hospitality.
Our team at Remitly created this guide as part of our series that celebrates the cuisine of our customers around the world.
The History of Mansaf
Mansaf’s roots run deep in Jordanian history. It originated among the Bedouin tribes who roamed the deserts of Jordan centuries ago. These nomadic people needed hearty meals that could be prepared over an open fire—hence, Mansaf was born.
The dish has evolved over time but its essence remains unchanged. It continues to be a staple at gatherings and celebrations, signifying unity and camaraderie.
Ingredients Used in Mansaf
The key ingredients in Mansaf are simple yet flavorful. Lamb is often used as the main protein, cooked until tender and succulent. The meat is then layered with rice—a staple grain in many Middle Eastern cuisines.
Jameed, a unique type of dried yogurt made from goat or sheep milk, gives Mansaf its distinctive tangy flavor. Almonds and pine nuts add crunch while aromatic spices like turmeric and allspice lend depth to this beloved dish.
Recipe for Mansaf
Ingredients
- 1 kg of lamb, cut into pieces
- 2 cups of rice
- 4 cups of water
- 500 grams of jameed or dried yogurt
- 1 cup of almonds and pine nuts, toasted
- Spices: turmeric, allspice, salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Start by soaking the jameed in warm water overnight. The next day, blend it until smooth and strain to remove any lumps.
- In a large pot, add the lamb pieces along with enough water to cover them. Bring it to a boil then reduce heat and let it simmer until the meat is tender.
- While the meat is cooking, rinse your rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook it separately according to package instructions.
- Once the meat is cooked, remove it from the broth but keep the broth for later use.
- In another pot, add your strained jameed along with some of the broth you saved earlier—this will form your sauce.
- Add your cooked lamb into this sauce and let it simmer for about half an hour.
- To serve, spread your cooked rice on a large platter or ‘sahn’. Arrange your meat on top then pour over some more sauce.
- Sprinkle with toasted nuts before serving.
Remember that Mansaf is best enjoyed communal style—gather around with friends or family and dig in!
Serving and Eating Customs
In true Bedouin tradition, Mansaf is typically served communal style on a large platter known as ‘sahn’. Everyone gathers around it to share this meal—a testament to Jordanian hospitality.
Eating customs vary but many prefer to use their right hand instead of utensils. This practice, though not mandatory, adds a touch of authenticity to the Mansaf experience.
Variations of Mansaf Across Jordan
While the basic recipe remains consistent, variations of Mansaf can be found across Jordan. Some regions add vegetables like tomatoes and peppers for extra flavor while others might use different types of meat or grains.
Regardless of these variations, the essence of Mansaf—its ability to bring people together—remains unchanged. It’s a dish that transcends regional boundaries and unites all Jordanians under one culinary banner.
Mansaf in Jordanian Celebrations
Mansaf is more than just a meal—it’s an integral part of Jordanian celebrations. Be it weddings, birthdays or religious festivals, no event is complete without this iconic dish.
The act of preparing and sharing Mansaf is seen as a gesture of goodwill and hospitality—a way to honor guests and make them feel welcomed. It’s not just about feeding people but also about fostering connections and strengthening bonds.
Influence of Mansaf on Jordanian Cuisine
Mansaf has had a profound influence on Jordanian cuisine. Its popularity has led to its adoption in restaurants nationwide, making it accessible beyond home kitchens.
Moreover, its unique combination of ingredients—lamb, rice, jameed—has inspired other dishes within the cuisine. In essence, Mansaf has become synonymous with Jordanian food culture—a testament to its enduring appeal.
Broader Cuisine of Jordan
Jordanian cuisine offers an array of dishes that are as diverse as its landscape—from hearty stews to refreshing salads; from savory pastries to sweet desserts.
Popular Dishes
Beyond Mansaf, Jordan is known for dishes like Maqluba—an upside-down rice dish with meat and vegetables—and Musakhan, a sumptuous chicken and bread dish. Falafel and hummus, though not unique to Jordan, are also widely enjoyed.
Influence of Neighboring Countries
Jordan’s cuisine has been influenced by its neighboring countries—Lebanon, Syria, Palestine. This is evident in the use of ingredients like olive oil, garlic, and lemon which are staples in these cuisines.
Street Food Culture
Street food plays a significant role in Jordanian food culture. Shawarma stalls and falafel stands can be found at every corner offering quick yet satisfying meals.
Sweet Treats
When it comes to desserts, Baklava—a sweet pastry made with layers of filo filled with chopped nuts—is a favorite. Kunafa too is loved for its cheesy goodness encased in crispy noodle-like pastry soaked in sweet syrup.
In essence, Jordanian cuisine offers something for everyone—from hearty meat dishes to light vegetarian options; from savory snacks to sweet treats—it’s a culinary journey worth exploring.
Visit the homepage, download our app, or check out our Help Center to get started.