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Muscat (Oman)
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Main course
Meat
Food Flavour DNA
Nutritional Values
680kcal
45gProtein
12gCarbs
52gFat
2gFibre
350 gServing
* Per serving · 350 g. May vary.
Shuwa
How to order / say it
Say it
شواء — [shoo-ah]
Order
I'd like to try the Shuwa, please.
Locally
أريد الشواء من فضلك
Say locally
Traditional Omani dish of marinated lamb slow-roasted in underground sand ovens.
Why try it?
Shuwa is a culinary centerpiece at festive and communal gatherings in Muscat, representing Oman's hospitality and the city's blending of tradition and flavor.
How it tastes
Tender, juicy lamb flavored with a blend of spices, offering a smoky aroma and a deep, rich taste.
Origin & History — first documented: 1850
Shuwa has been a part of Omani culinary heritage since at least the mid-19th century, originating from the communal cooking practices of Muscat's tribes during celebratory occasions.
Recipe
Ingredients
- 🥩 1 kg lamb shoulder
- 🧄 5 cloves garlic
- 🧂 2 tsp cumin seeds
- 🧂 2 tsp coriander seeds
- 🧂 5 cardamom pods
- 🧂 1 tbsp red chili powder
- 🍋 3 tbsp lemon juice
- 🧂 to taste salt
- 🧂 1 tsp black pepper
- 🥛 50 g ghee
Method
- 1 Marinate the lamb with crushed garlic, spices, lemon juice, salt, and ghee.
- 2 Wrap the lamb tightly in banana leaves or aluminum foil.
- 3 Bury the wrapped lamb in a preheated underground sand oven.
- 4 Roast for 24 hours until fully cooked and tender.
- 5 Serve hot with rice or bread.
