The Traditional  Jordanian Bedouin cuisine represents all aspects of the Mediterranean diet . It includes an abundance of starches , fruits ,vegetables, fresh fish and seafood .

Poultry is eaten more often than red meat , and when red meat is eaten , it’s usually lamb . The cuisine also includes good amounts of garlic and olive oil , as it is very rare that a Jordanian meat doesn’t include these two ingredients .

Most often foods are either grilled , baked or sautéed in olive oil . Butter and cream are rarely used other than in desserts . Vegetables are often eaten raw or pickled as well as cooked . While the Jordanian cuisine doesn’t boast an entire repertoire of sauces , it focuses on herbs , spices and the freshness of ingredients .

There isn’t a meal eaten in Jordan that does not include bread , it is also very rare that drinks are served without food . One of the more healthy and entertaining aspects of Jordanian Bedouin cuisine is the manner or custom in which food is often served ,… it’s referred to as mazza . The assortment of dishes and combinations are almost limitless.

It’s an array of small dishes (appetizers) placed before the guests , creating an inspiring array of colors , flavors , textures and aromas . Mazza may be as simple as  pickled vegetables , hummus and bread , or it may become an entire meal consisting of grilled marinated seafood , skewered meats ,… etc.

Although simple fresh fruits are often served towards the end of a Jordanian Bedouin  meal , there is also desserts and coffee .

Bedouin Coffee has its importance in Jordan , as it is served throughout the day . Bedouin  coffee is strong , thick and often flavored with cardamom (Hab Haal). When guests arrive at one’s home , they are invariably persuaded to stay for coffee , no matter how short their visit .

The genius of Jordanian Bedouin food is its simplicity… it’s the natural bond that all the Jordanians Bedouins share.