Veganism has been growing in popularity around the world and this trend has reached Jordan. An increasing number of restaurants offer plant-based options and an increased awareness of the health benefits of a vegan diet. Jordan is home to a rich and diverse food culture, making it easy for vegans to enjoy a variety of plant-based dishes and cuisines. So while most may think it’s difficult to find plant-based dining in Jordan, I am about to show you that it’s actually quite easy to find, if you know where to look.
Fatoush Salad © Carolyn Scott
Accidentally Vegan Cultural Favorites
One of the most popular vegetarian dishes in Jordan is mansaf, made with jameed, a dried yogurt, and served with rice. Another popular dish is mjadara, which is made with lentils and rice. It can easily be made vegan by substituting the traditional meat with extra lentils. Mujadara is a staple food in Jordan and is commonly eaten for lunch or dinner.
In addition to these traditional dishes, vegans in Jordan can also find a wide range of international cuisine that is suitable for their dietary needs. Many restaurants now offer vegan versions of popular dishes such as falafel, hummus, and vegetable kebabs. These dishes are not only delicious, but are also affordable. They are readily available in most restaurants and cafes throughout the country.
Try the Street Food in Jordan
Another great way for vegans to enjoy the local food culture in Jordan is by trying the street food. Many street vendors sell vegan-friendly options such as falafel, hummus with fresh pita, fresh juices, and smoothies. This makes it easy for vegans to grab a quick and satisfying meal while exploring the city.
For those looking for a more formal dining experience, there are also a number of fine-dining restaurants that offer vegan menus. These restaurants cater to the growing demand for plant-based options, offering an array of delicious and inventive dishes that are carefully crafted to meet the needs of vegans.
Grilled vegetable platter © Carolyn Scott
Yes, Vegan restaurants DO exist in Jordan
In addition to restaurants, vegans can also find a wide range of vegan-friendly products in grocery stores and supermarkets. These stores stock a variety of plant-based products, including tofu, tempeh, and other meat alternatives. Dairy-free alternatives such as soy milk and coconut yogurt are available, too. With the increasing popularity of veganism, these products are becoming increasingly accessible and affordable, making it easier than ever for vegans to follow a plant-based diet.
Overall, Jordan offers a wealth of delicious and diverse food options for vegans. This makes it an ideal destination for those looking to explore the world of plant-based eating. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor to the country, you will be able to find a wide range of delicious and nutritious options to suit your dietary needs. With a growing number of restaurants, cafes, and grocery stores offering vegan-friendly products and options, Jordan is truly a great place to enjoy a plant-based lifestyle.
My recommendations of where to find vegan food in Jordan
Quinoa salad in Aqaba © Carolyn Scott
During my time in Jordan, I was delighted to see the popularity of vegan cuisine growing, especially in the capital city of Aaman. My favorite place that I stumbled upon was We Farm. It’s located in the hip enclave of Jebel al-Webdeh. This lovely cafe and vegan market is owned and operated by two young ladies. They make their own soups, vegan cheeses, spreads, dips and even ice creams from scratch. Additionally, they have their own farm from which the organic ingredients for their creations come.
In Petra, I was excited that the cooking class at Petra Kitchen had several traditional dishes that happened to be vegan. Not only was it a fun and interactive activity, it was also a treat to be able to enjoy the food we all had a hand in preparing.
I had the opportunity to stay at international hotel chains such as the Movenpick and Hilton. These hotels always find a way to accommodate special diets. In fact, such hotels do a wonderful job of offering international options for dietary restricted guests. This can be a welcomed departure from daily servings of hummus and pita. I was extremely excited to be able to order a veggie burger and quinoa salad every now and again.
In conclusion
The growth of veganism in Jordan is a testament to the growing awareness of the benefits of a plant-based diet. It is also a reflection of the country’s rich and diverse food culture. Whether you are a seasoned vegan or simply curious about the world of plant-based eating, Jordan offers a wealth of options. They are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied and nourished. I hope this helps you to find the best plant-based dining in Jordan on your next visit!
For more of my coverage on Jordan, including a three part episode of The Healthy Voyager in Jordan, be sure to visit https://healthyvoyager.com/ and subscribe!
*This trip, experience and post was made possible by IFWTWA and The Jordan Tourism Board
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