Jordanian Breakfast: A Delicious and Nutritious Way to Start Your Day

If you’re looking for a breakfast experience that’s both filling and flavourful, then Jordanian breakfast might just be the answer. This Middle Eastern country has a rich culinary history, and its breakfast dishes are no exception. From fresh flatbreads to creamy dips, Jordanian breakfast is a feast for the senses.

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One of the staples of Jordanian breakfast is manakish, a type of flatbread that’s often topped with za’atar, a blend of herbs and spices that includes thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac. Another popular bread is khobz, a round loaf that’s perfect for dipping in hummus or labneh, a creamy strained yogurt. And if you’re in the mood for something sweet, try some qatayef, a dessert made from pancakes that are filled with nuts or cheese and then drizzled with syrup.

Jordanian breakfast is also known for its dips and spreads, such as hummus, baba ghanoush, and muhammara. These creamy dips are made from chickpeas, eggplant, and roasted red peppers respectively, and are often served with fresh vegetables or bread. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try some ful medames, a dish made from fava beans that’s often eaten for breakfast in Jordan and other Middle Eastern countries.

Traditional Components of a Jordanian Breakfast

A traditional Jordanian breakfast is a hearty and flavourful meal that will set you up for the day. Here are some of the essential components that you can expect to find:

Mansaf-Inspired Dishes

Mansaf is a traditional Jordanian dish that is often served at special occasions, such as weddings. It consists of lamb that has been slow-cooked in a sauce made from fermented yogurt, served on a bed of rice and garnished with pine nuts and parsley. While mansaf is not typically served for breakfast, you may find dishes that are inspired by its flavours and ingredients.

Hummus and Ful Medames

Hummus and ful medames are two staple dishes that you will find on the breakfast table in Jordan. Hummus is a dip made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice and garlic, while ful medames is a stew made from fava beans that have been cooked with garlic, lemon juice and olive oil. Both dishes are typically served with khobez bread.

Labneh and Cheese Varieties

Labneh is a thick, tangy yogurt cheese that is a popular breakfast food in Jordan. It is often served drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with za’atar, a blend of herbs and spices that is commonly used in Middle Eastern cuisine. Jordan is also known for its variety of cheeses, including jibneh arabieh, a salty white cheese, and jibneh mashallaleh, a mild, creamy cheese.

Za’atar and Olive Oil

Za’atar is a blend of herbs and spices that is commonly used in Jordanian cuisine. It is made from a mixture of dried thyme, oregano, marjoram, sesame seeds and sumac. Za’atar is often sprinkled on labneh, hummus or bread, and is also used as a seasoning for meat and vegetables. Olive oil is another essential ingredient in Jordanian cuisine, and is often used for cooking and as a dressing for salads.

Khobez Bread

Khobez bread is a type of flatbread that is a staple of the Jordanian diet. It is similar to pita bread, but is thinner and larger in size. Khobez bread is typically served with hummus, ful medames or labneh, and is also used to scoop up stews and sauces.

Fresh Vegetables and Olives

Fresh vegetables, such as tomatoes, cucumbers and radishes, are often served alongside the main dishes at a Jordanian breakfast. Olives, both green and black, are also a common accompaniment. These fresh and flavourful ingredients help to balance out the richness of the other dishes.

Modern Influences and Variations

Jordanian breakfast has evolved over time, incorporating modern influences and variations to create a unique culinary experience. Here are some of the modern influences and variations that have become popular in Jordanian breakfast culture.

Western Breakfast Foods

With the increasing popularity of Western cuisine, many Jordanians have started incorporating Western breakfast foods into their morning meal. You can now find pancakes, waffles, and omelettes served alongside traditional dishes like hummus and falafel.

Health-Conscious Alternatives

As people become more health-conscious, many Jordanian restaurants have started offering healthier alternatives to traditional breakfast dishes. For example, you can now find avocado toast and smoothie bowls on many breakfast menus.

Beverages

Jordanians love their tea and coffee, but modern influences have brought new beverages to the breakfast table. You can now find fresh juices, smoothies, and specialty coffees on many breakfast menus.

Overall, modern influences and variations have added a new dimension to Jordanian breakfast culture. Whether you prefer traditional dishes or modern alternatives, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

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What are the staple dishes found in a traditional Jordanian breakfast?

A traditional Jordanian breakfast usually consists of a selection of small dishes, including hummus, ful medames, labneh, falafel, and pita bread. Olives, tomatoes, cucumber, and mint leaves are also commonly served. Tea and coffee are the typical beverages, with tea being the most popular.

Could you provide some classic recipes for a Jordanian morning meal?

Sure, here are a few classic recipes for a Jordanian breakfast:

• Hummus: Blend chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice until smooth. Add salt to taste. Serve with pita bread.
• Ful medames: Soak fava beans overnight, then cook with garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Mash the beans and season with salt and cumin. Serve with olive oil and chopped parsley.
• Labneh: Strain yoghurt overnight to remove excess whey. Mix with salt and olive oil. Serve with pita bread.
• Falafel: Blend chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, coriander, cumin, and flour. Shape into balls and fry until golden brown. Serve with tahini sauce and pita bread.

Which eateries offer the best experience of a Jordanian breakfast in Amman?

There are many restaurants and cafes in Amman that offer delicious Jordanian breakfasts. Here are a few popular options:

• Hashem Restaurant: A local favourite, Hashem Restaurant is known for its hummus, falafel, and freshly baked bread.
• Al-Quds Restaurant: Al-Quds serves traditional Jordanian breakfast dishes, including ful medames, labneh, and shakshuka.
• Sufra Restaurant: Sufra offers a modern twist on traditional Jordanian cuisine, with dishes such as za’atar croissants and labneh with honey and pistachios.

What are the typical ingredients used in Jordanian breakfast cuisine?

Jordanian breakfast cuisine typically includes ingredients such as chickpeas, fava beans, tahini, yoghurt, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, parsley, coriander, cumin, and za’atar. Bread, particularly pita bread, is a staple.

Are there any cultural customs associated with breakfast in Jordan?

In Jordan, breakfast is a social meal that is often enjoyed with family and friends. It is common to share dishes and to eat with your hands. Tea is typically served in small glasses, and it is customary to pour tea for others before pouring for yourself.

Is it common to find breakfast cereals in a Jordanian morning spread?

No, breakfast cereals are not typically served as part of a Jordanian breakfast. Instead, the focus is on a variety of small dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.

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