Jordan is a country rich in history and culture, and one of the best ways to understand and appreciate this is through its food. For luxury travellers looking for an authentic culinary experience, the “Beit Sitti”, translated to “House of my Grandmother” by Maria Haddad and her sisters Dina and Tania is a must-visit destination.
Located in the heritage-filled neighbourhood of Jabal al Weibdeh in Amman, this cooking school offers a fun and feel-good cooking-dining experience that will take you beyond the historical sites and into the heart of Jordanian culture.
At the Beit Sitti Cooking School, visitors can expect a holistic experience of Jordanian food, with an emphasis on grandma’s recipes and cooking stories. The attention to detail and the mother’s love that goes into the food is evident in every dish, with ingredients that are freshly made and Levant-inspired. From chopping, baking and tasting, the experience is delivered with passion and care by the Haddad sisters.
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When you arrive, you will be greeted as a guest in a Jordanian home, and begin your cooking experience under the supervision of one of the sisters. You will be able to cook your own meal, eat and cook to your heart’s content, and listen to a lifetime of cooking stories as you learn about the traditional dishes of the region.
The delicious Arabic cuisine on offer will leave your taste buds tingling, and you’ll be able to take the recipes and techniques you learn back home with you.
One of the highlights of the Beit Sitti experience is the opportunity to cook with the sisters themselves, who have a wealth of knowledge and experience to share. They will guide you through the process of preparing traditional dishes, and you’ll be able to taste the difference that using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients can make. From preparing the perfect falafel to mastering the art of making traditional bread, you’ll learn everything you need to know to create authentic Jordanian dishes.
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In addition to the cooking experience, Beit Sitti also offers visitors the chance to explore the local neighbourhood and culture. Jabal al Weibdeh is a charming and historic area, and the local guides will be happy to show you around and introduce you to the local community. You’ll have the opportunity to visit the local market, where you can see the ingredients that are used in the cooking school and learn more about the local food culture.
Overall, the Beit Sitti Cooking School by Maria Haddad and her sisters Dina and Tania is a must-visit destination for luxury travellers looking for an authentic culinary experience in Jordan.
It offers a unique opportunity to explore the country beyond its historical sites, and to understand its culture through grandma’s recipes and cooking stories. With delicious Arabic cuisine, a welcoming atmosphere and a wealth of knowledge and experience to share, this is a gourmet trip that you won’t want to miss. ◼
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© This article was first published online in Jan 2023 – World Travel Magazine.