One of the most memorable experiences of our journey through Jordan wasn’t in a famous archaeological site or an ancient castle. It was in a warm and welcoming home near Kerak. We had the privilege of sharing a home-hosted maqlouba feast with a local family. We were treated to Maqlouba, one of Jordan’s most beloved traditional dishes. This meal wasn’t just about the food; it was about connection, culture, and the incredible hospitality of the Jordanian people.
A Warm Welcome Into a Jordanian Home
Arriving at our host’s home, we were greeted with genuine warmth and kindness. Our hosts, a mother and her daughter, welcomed us as if we were longtime friends. They ushered us into their cozy home, where the aromas of spices, simmering meat, and roasted vegetables filled the air. The aromas teased our appetites before we even sat down.
We gathered in the kitchen, where our host explained the preparation of Maqlouba. The name means “upside down” in Arabic. This traditional meal is a one-pot wonder. It is comprised of layers of rice, meat (usually chicken or lamb), and vegetables. The ingredients are slow-cooked together with fragrant spices like cinnamon, turmeric, and cardamom. The real magic happens when the pot is flipped upside down onto a serving platter, revealing a beautifully stacked dish.
Home-Hosted Maqlouba Feast: A Culinary Celebration
As the moment arrived to unveil the Maqlouba, we all watched eagerly. With practiced skill, our host flipped the pot in one swift motion, carefully lifting it to reveal the layered masterpiece. The rice was perfectly fluffy, the chicken tender, and the roasted eggplant and potatoes added a delicious depth of flavor.
We served ourselves from a large communal plate—a true Jordanian dining experience, although we did adjusted a bit to eat from individual plates. But we were able to layer all the flavors from the communal dishes onto our plates, for an almost traditional experience. We sat facing each other around the room, enjoying the feast immensely. This style of eating felt intimate and familial, a reminder that meals in Jordan are about more than just nourishment—they’re about togetherness.
More Than Just a Meal: A Cultural Exchange
As we ate, we chatted about family, traditions, and daily life in Jordan. Our host and her daughter were eager to share stories, and we learned about the importance of hospitality in Jordanian culture. Guests are treated with great honor, and sharing a meal is considered one of the highest expressions of generosity.
To finish, we were served hot mint tea and sweets, adding the perfect ending to an already unforgettable afternoon. The warmth of the conversation, the laughter, and the generosity of our hosts made us feel like we were part of their family, if only for a night.
An Unforgettable Home-Hosted Maqlouba Feast
Our home-hosted dinner near Kerak was more than just an opportunity to taste authentic Jordanian cuisine—it was a heartfelt experience that reminded us of the universal power of food to bring people together. No restaurant or tourist attraction could have replicated the warmth, authenticity, and joy we felt that evening.
If you ever find yourself in Jordan, and are fortunate enough to enjoy a home-hosted meal, take advantage of it! It’s a chance to not only taste incredible food but also to experience the heart of Jordanian culture—its hospitality, generosity, and the deep-rooted traditions that make this country so special.
