Jordan & Asian Food Guide (2025): 7 Authentic Dishes You Must Try

Discover 7 must-try Jordanian & Asian dishes in 2025. Explore flavors, U.S. food trends, prices, health benefits & the best places to eat.

Mar 31, 2025 - 03:36 Updated: Sep 23, 2025 - 12:37

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Jordan & Asian Food Guide (2025): 7 Authentic Dishes You Must Try

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Craving bold flavors in 2025? Dive into our Jordan & Asia Food Guide featuring 7 iconic dishes—from creamy Mansaf to fragrant Biryani and colorful Pad Thai. Learn what makes them special, how much they cost in the U.S., and the best spots to try them.

Food tells stories of culture, heritage, and connection—and nowhere is this clearer than in the kitchens of Jordan and Asia. In 2025, American diners are embracing these culinary traditions like never before. Jordanian classics such as Mansaf and Maqluba reflect centuries of history and hospitality, while Asian staples like Sushi and Pad Thai showcase artistry, freshness, and balance. Together, they’re shaping a vibrant new food landscape in the U.S.

This guide explores seven standout dishes that capture the essence of both regions. We’ll highlight their ingredients, flavors, cultural significance, and even where you can enjoy them across major U.S. cities. Whether you’re hunting for authentic Middle Eastern comfort food or a light Japanese bite, this list will help you discover flavors that are both timeless and trending.

1. Mansaf – Jordan's National Dish

Mansaf – Jordan’s National Dish

Mansaf is more than just food—it’s a cultural symbol of generosity, tradition, and hospitality in Jordan. Considered the national dish, it holds a special place in Jordanian identity and is often served at weddings, religious celebrations, and family gatherings. Sharing Mansaf is seen as a gesture of respect and unity.

What’s in it:

Tender lamb simmered in a sauce made with jameed (a dried, fermented yogurt unique to Jordan).
Served on a bed of rice, often layered with shrākh (thin flatbread) underneath.
Garnished with toasted almonds, pine nuts, and fresh parsley.

Flavor & Experience:

Rich, tangy, and creamy from the yogurt sauce.
Traditionally eaten with the right hand, gathered around a large communal platter, reinforcing the spirit of sharing.

Why it’s special:

Recognized by UNESCO (2015) as part of Jordan’s Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Celebrated across the Middle East as one of the most authentic and beloved lamb-and-rice dishes.
Frequently featured on global “must-try food” lists, highlighting its deep cultural roots.

Average Price in the U.S. (2025): Around $18–$22 per serving in Middle Eastern restaurants.

2. Maqluba – The Upside-Down Rice Dish

Maqluba, which literally translates to “upside down” in Arabic, is one of Jordan’s most beloved comfort foods and is also enjoyed widely across the Levant, including Palestine, Syria, and Lebanon. Traditionally prepared for family gatherings, this hearty dish combines meat, vegetables, and rice in a single pot, then gets its name from the dramatic way it’s served—flipped upside down to reveal its colorful, layered design.

What’s in it:

Meat: chicken or lamb
Vegetables: eggplant, cauliflower, potatoes, sometimes carrots or zucchini
Rice: long-grain, often basmati
Spices: warm blends like allspice, cinnamon, and bay leaves

Flavor & Experience:
Fragrant and satisfying, Maqluba combines tender meat with soft, spiced vegetables and fluffy rice. The flip at serving time isn’t just for show—it creates a stunning layered presentation that makes the dish as eye-catching as it is delicious.

Why it’s special:

A traditional family dish passed down for generations
Often prepared for weekend meals, Ramadan, and special gatherings
Represents the communal spirit of Jordanian and Levantine dining traditions

Average Price in the U.S. (2025): $16–$22 depending on restaurant and portion size

3. Falafel – The Perfect Street Snack

Falafel is one of the most beloved street foods in the Middle East and a favorite among vegetarians worldwide. In Jordan, you’ll find falafel shops on nearly every corner, serving these crispy bites fresh from the fryer. Over the years, falafel has also become a go-to option in U.S. cities, loved for its flavor, convenience, and plant-based appeal.

What’s in it:

Ground chickpeas (sometimes fava beans) blended with parsley, onion, garlic, and warm spices like cumin and coriander.
Shaped into small balls or patties and deep-fried until golden brown.

Flavor & Experience:

Crispy and crunchy on the outside, soft and herbaceous on the inside.
Commonly served in pita bread or wraps with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, cucumbers, and a drizzle of tahini sauce.

Why it’s special:

Recognized globally as one of the most popular Middle Eastern foods.
A naturally vegan-friendly dish that is both budget-conscious and packed with plant-based protein and fiber.
Its portability and versatility make it a popular street food and a healthy alternative to fast food.

Average Price in the U.S. (2025): $8–$12 for a falafel wrap or sandwich.

4. Knafeh – A Sweet Cheese Dessert

If you have a sweet tooth, Knafeh (also spelled Kunafa) is a dessert you simply can’t miss. Popular across Jordan and much of the Middle East, it combines contrasting textures—crispy, gooey, creamy, and nutty—into one indulgent bite. It’s often enjoyed during special occasions and family gatherings, but has also become a favorite street food in cities around the world.

What’s in it:

Thin shredded pastry (kataifi or semolina dough)
A filling of mild white cheese (like Nabulsi or Akkawi) or sweet cream
Soaked in fragrant sugar syrup, often infused with rose or orange blossom water
Finished with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios

Flavor & Experience:
Knafeh is famous for its crisp golden crust paired with a warm, stretchy cheese or creamy center. The sugar syrup brings sweetness, but the floral notes keep it light rather than heavy. Served hot, it’s gooey and satisfying—perfect with a cup of mint tea or Arabic coffee.

Why it’s special:

A cultural icon in Jordan and Palestine, often considered the “queen of Middle Eastern desserts.”
Enjoyed both as a street food and a festive dish, especially during Ramadan and Eid.
Its global popularity is rising—searches for “Knafeh near me” have grown steadily in the U.S., showing increasing curiosity about this dessert.

Average Price in the U.S. (2025): Around $6–$12 per slice, depending on location and whether it’s prepared in a bakery or restaurant.

5. Sushi – Japan’s Global Gift

Sushi is one of the most iconic Japanese dishes and has become a beloved staple around the world, including in the U.S. Its mix of simplicity, artistry, and balance makes it both a casual favorite and a fine-dining experience.

What’s in it:

Vinegared rice paired with fresh fish such as tuna, salmon, or shrimp.
Variations may include vegetables, egg (tamago), or tofu.
Commonly rolled in seaweed (nori) or served as slices of fish over rice (nigiri).

Flavor & Experience:

Clean, delicate, and refreshing.
Often enjoyed with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger to enhance flavor.
Presentation is key—color, texture, and arrangement all matter.

Why it’s special:

Sushi consistently ranks among the most popular Asian foods in the U.S. according to national restaurant and delivery reports.
Its versatility ranges from quick, affordable rolls to high-end omakase tasting menus crafted by master chefs.
Beyond taste, sushi is celebrated as an art form, blending culinary skill with cultural tradition.

Average Price in the U.S. (2025):

Basic rolls at casual spots: $4–$10
Specialty rolls and nigiri: $12–$25
Premium omakase experiences: $100–$400+ per person, depending on the restaurant.

6. Pad Thai – Thailand’s Favorite Noodle Dish

Pad Thai is Thailand’s most iconic noodle dish and one of the country’s greatest culinary exports. Its irresistible balance of flavors has made it not only a national treasure in Thailand but also a staple in Thai restaurants across the United States. Many home cooks have also adopted Pad Thai as a go-to recipe thanks to its versatility and vibrant taste.

What’s in it:

Rice noodles stir-fried with shrimp, chicken, or tofu
Egg, bean sprouts, scallions, and crushed peanuts
Flavored with tamarind paste, fish sauce (or soy sauce for vegetarian versions), palm sugar, and lime juice

Flavor & Experience:
Pad Thai is celebrated for its harmony of taste—sweet, sour, salty, and savory all in a single bite. The crunch of peanuts and bean sprouts contrasts beautifully with soft noodles, while fresh lime adds brightness.

Why it’s special:

Consistently ranks among the most-ordered Thai dishes in the U.S. on food delivery platforms like Uber Eats and DoorDash.
Loved for being adaptable: it can be made vegetarian, vegan, or with seafood and meat.
Recognized internationally as a gateway dish to Thai cuisine, making it popular among first-time diners exploring Southeast Asian food.

Average Price in the U.S. (2025): $14–$20 depending on the restaurant and portion size.

7. Biryani – The Fragrant Rice Delight

Biryani is one of South Asia’s most celebrated dishes, loved for its rich flavors, colorful layers, and festive presentation. Once considered a royal delicacy, it has now become a global favorite, with U.S. diners increasingly seeking out authentic versions in restaurants and takeout spots.

What’s in it:

Long-grain basmati rice
Marinated chicken, lamb, goat, or sometimes vegetables
Fried onions, saffron, yogurt, and a blend of aromatic spices (cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, cumin)

Flavor & Experience:

Fragrant and flavorful, with each grain of rice infused with spices
Rich and slightly spicy, balanced with cooling accompaniments
Commonly served with raita (yogurt sauce), salad, or boiled eggs

Why it’s special:

Considered a symbol of celebration in South Asian culture, often served at weddings and festivals
Among the most popular South Asian rice dishes in the U.S., especially in cities with vibrant Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi communities
Online food delivery apps like DoorDash and Uber Eats have reported steady year-over-year growth in Biryani orders, showing its rising appeal among American diners

Average Price in the U.S. (2025): $15–$25 depending on portion size and location

Jordan vs. Asia: Flavor Showdown

Feature	Jordanian Cuisine	Asian Cuisine (Thai, Japanese)
Spice Level	Mild to moderately spiced, often aromatic	Ranges from very mild (sushi) to hot and spicy (Thai)
Base Ingredients	Lamb, chicken, rice, yogurt, flatbread, chickpeas	Rice, noodles, seafood, soy products, fresh vegetables
Cooking Style	Slow-cooked stews, layered rice dishes, baked desserts	Stir-fried, steamed, grilled, rolled, or raw-prepared
Popular Dishes	Mansaf, Maqluba, Falafel, Knafeh	Sushi, Pad Thai, Ramen, Biryani*
Texture Highlights	Creamy sauces, tender meats, crispy pastries and sweets	Fresh and light (sushi), tangy and crunchy (Pad Thai)

*Note: Biryani is originally South Asian (India/Pakistan) but is widely included in Asian cuisine guides due to its popularity across the region.

Most Instagrammable Jordan Asia Dishes

Looking for dishes that taste amazing and look stunning on camera? These Jordanian and Asian favorites are guaranteed to light up your Instagram feed:

Knafeh with syrup drizzle – The glossy orange pastry topped with pistachios and a sweet syrup pour makes this dessert as photogenic as it is delicious.
Sushi platters with edible flowers – Vibrant rolls paired with delicate garnishes create a colorful, artistic presentation that screams luxury dining.
Pad Thai loaded with fresh herbs – The mix of golden noodles, bright green cilantro, crunchy peanuts, and lime wedges makes every plate pop with color.
Crispy Falafel wraps – Golden-brown falafel tucked into soft pita with red tomatoes, green pickles, and creamy tahini creates the perfect street-food snapshot.

Pantry Essentials: Cook These Dishes at Home

Key Spices: Za’atar (herb blend with sesame seeds), sumac (lemony tang), allspice, cardamom, turmeric, and gochugaru (Korean chili flakes). These are staples for creating the depth of flavor found in Jordanian stews, Middle Eastern rice dishes, and Asian stir-fries.

Essential Sauces & Pastes: Soy sauce (for umami), fish sauce (salty depth in Thai cooking), tahini (sesame paste for dips and dressings), and tamarind paste (adds sweet-sour balance in dishes like Pad Thai). Keeping these on hand allows you to recreate both Middle Eastern and Asian recipes at home.

Where to Buy: Most of these ingredients are widely available in the U.S. You can find them at Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, and large supermarkets. For specialty items—like za’atar blends, jameed (for Mansaf), or authentic tamarind paste—check Amazon, Middle Eastern grocery stores, Asian supermarkets (such as H Mart), or local ethnic markets.

Why Jordan Asia Food Is So Popular in the U.S.

The rising demand for Jordanian and Asian cuisine in the U.S. is easy to understand. These foods bring together flavor, tradition, and accessibility in ways that appeal to a wide range of diners.

Diverse Flavors: From the creamy yogurt-based Mansaf of Jordan to the aromatic spices of Indian Biryani, the variety offers something for every palate.
Balanced Meals: These dishes often combine proteins, grains, and vegetables in a way that feels both hearty and nourishing.
Market Growth: Ethnic food sales in the U.S. continue to rise year after year, with Middle Eastern and Asian cuisines among the fastest-growing categories.
Easy Access: Delivery apps and local restaurants have made these foods more available than ever, helping them move from niche experiences to everyday favorites.

Health Benefits of Jordan Asia Dishes

Mansaf & Yogurt
Rich in probiotics that support digestion and gut health. A typical serving provides 500–650 calories and is high in protein and healthy fats from lamb.

Falafel
A plant-based protein powerhouse. Each serving delivers about 13g of protein and 6g of fiber, making it filling and heart-healthy. Great choice for vegans and vegetarians.

Sushi
Packed with omega-3 fatty acids from fresh fish like salmon or tuna, which support brain and heart health. Low in calories, with most sushi rolls averaging 200–300 calories each.

Pad Thai
A balanced meal that offers a mix of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables. One serving typically ranges between 400–600 calories, depending on toppings, and is rich in vitamins from bean sprouts and lime.

Biryani
A nutrient-dense dish, providing about 20g of protein and a good dose of iron when made with lamb or chicken. However, it is calorie-dense, averaging 500–700 calories per serving, so best enjoyed in moderation.

Chef & Restaurant Spotlights

Manal Al Alem – The Queen of Jordanian Cooking
Known across the Middle East as one of the most influential chefs, Manal Al Alem has introduced traditional Jordanian dishes like Mansaf and Maqluba to a global audience. Her recipes focus on preserving authentic flavors while making them accessible for modern kitchens.

Roy Choi – Korean-American Fusion Pioneer
Founder of the legendary Kogi BBQ food trucks in Los Angeles, Roy Choi helped popularize Korean fusion cuisine in the U.S. His style of blending Asian flavors with street food culture continues to inspire chefs and diners nationwide.

Semiramis (Chicago, IL) – Jordanian Cuisine Hub
This Chicago favorite is renowned for serving authentic Mansaf and Falafel. A go-to spot for locals and tourists alike, Semiramis has become a Midwest hub for Middle Eastern food lovers.

Tanoreen (Brooklyn, NYC) – Modern Jordanian Dining
Led by Chef Rawia Bishara, Tanoreen combines traditional Jordanian flavors with a modern twist. The restaurant is especially famous for its Mansaf and Maqluba, earning top reviews in New York food guides.

Jitlada Thai (Los Angeles, CA) – Pad Thai & More
One of the most authentic Thai restaurants in the U.S., Jitlada is celebrated for its bold Southern Thai dishes, including an unforgettable Pad Thai. Featured on TV and food blogs, it’s a must-visit spot for Thai food enthusiasts.

Where to Find Jordanian Food in the USA & the Best Asian Middle Eastern Fusion Restaurants

If you want to taste authentic Jordanian food in the USA or explore delicious Asian Middle Eastern fusion food, here are some of the best Jordanian restaurants in the U.S. along with top Asian dining spots:

New York: Best Mansaf in New York at Tanoreen; Authentic Sushi in New York at Sushi Yasuda.
Los Angeles: Famous Knafeh in Los Angeles at Knafeh Café; Authentic Pad Thai in Los Angeles at Jitlada Thai.
Chicago: Traditional Jordanian Falafel & Mansaf in Chicago at Semiramis.
Houston & Dallas: Best Biryani in Texas at Biryani Pot.

How to Cook Jordan Asia Food at Home

If you’d like to bring the flavors of Jordan and Asia into your own kitchen, here are some easy recipes you can try at home. Each one is beginner-friendly, requires simple ingredients, and captures the authentic taste of the original dish.

Easy Mansaf Recipe (Serves 4)

Ingredients:

2 lbs lamb chunks
2 cups rice
1 cup jameed (fermented yogurt) or Greek yogurt as substitute
Bay leaves, cardamom pods, salt
Flatbread, almonds, parsley for garnish

Steps:

Boil lamb chunks with bay leaves and cardamom until tender.
In a separate pot, simmer jameed yogurt sauce for 15 minutes.
Combine the lamb with yogurt sauce and cook for 30 more minutes.
Serve over a large platter of rice with flatbread underneath.
Garnish with toasted almonds and fresh parsley.

Quick Pad Thai Recipe (20 Minutes)

Ingredients:

200g rice noodles
2 tbsp tamarind paste
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp sugar
2 eggs
Shrimp or chicken (optional), tofu for vegetarian version
Bean sprouts, green onion, crushed peanuts, lime wedges

Steps:

Soak rice noodles in warm water until soft (about 10 minutes).
In a wok, stir-fry shrimp or tofu with garlic and onions.
Push ingredients to one side, add eggs, and scramble.
Add drained noodles, tamarind paste, soy sauce, and sugar. Toss well.
Top with bean sprouts, green onions, and crushed peanuts. Serve with lime wedges.

Homemade Falafel (Baked or Fried)

Ingredients:

2 cups soaked chickpeas
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic
½ cup parsley
1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp coriander, salt, pepper
Olive oil for frying or baking

Steps:

Blend chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, and spices into a coarse mixture.
Form into small balls or patties.
Fry in hot oil until golden brown OR bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes.
Serve inside pita bread with tahini sauce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and pickles.

Conclusion

These popular Middle Eastern dishes in 2025 are not just trending online but also shaping restaurant menus and food festivals across America.

In 2025, Jordan Asia Food is becoming very popular in the U.S. because people love trying new and tasty dishes. Foods like Mansaf, Sushi, Biryani, and Pad Thai are now found not only in big restaurants but also in food trucks, small cafes, and even home kitchens. In cities like Los Angeles, Austin, and New York, more places are serving these dishes, and events like street food festivals are bringing thousands of people together. More Americans are also cooking these meals at home using meal kits and watching videos online. Many are looking for food that tells a story, and Jordan Asia Food does just that—it connects people with different cultures and brings joy through every bite.

FAQs

Q1. What is Jordan Asia Food?
A: Jordan Asia Food means tasty dishes from Jordan and some Asian countries. These include meals like Mansaf, Sushi, Biryani, and more.

Q2. Where can I eat Jordan Asia Food in the U.S.?
A: You can eat these dishes in cities like New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Houston, and Dallas. Some good places are Tanoreen, Knafeh Café, Jitlada Thai, and Biryani Pot.

Q3. How much does Jordan Asia Food cost in the U.S.?
A: Most dishes cost between $10 and $35. A full meal usually costs around $15 to $35 per person.

Q4. Can I get vegetarian food in Jordan Asia Food?
A: Yes. Dishes like Falafel and vegetable Maqluba are vegetarian.

Q5. Why are people in the U.S. eating more Jordan Asia Food?
A: Many people in the U.S. like to try new and tasty food. Jordan and Asian dishes are full of flavor, so they are becoming very popular.

Q6. Is Jordanian food similar to other Middle Eastern cuisines?
A: Yes, Jordanian food shares flavors with Lebanese, Syrian, and Palestinian cuisine but is unique for dishes like Mansaf with jameed yogurt sauce.

Q7. Which Jordanian dishes are vegetarian or vegan-friendly?
A: Falafel, hummus, and vegetable Maqluba are great options for vegetarians and vegans.

Q8. Where can I buy Jordanian spices in the U.S.?
A: You can find spices like za’atar, sumac, and cardamom in Middle Eastern grocery stores, Amazon, or specialty markets in cities like New York and Los Angeles.

Q9. What’s the difference between Jordanian and Asian cooking styles?
A: Jordanian cooking often uses slow-cooked, one-pot meals like Mansaf and Maqluba, while Asian cooking (like Thai and Japanese) emphasizes stir-frying, steaming, and light fresh flavors.