Jameed

Traditional Jordanian food

Jameed balls drying in the sun

Jameed (Arabic: ____) is a traditional Jordanian food product made from hard dry yogurt or curd. It is a key ingredient in the famous Jordanian dish Mansaf, which is considered the national dish of Jordan.

Preparation

Jameed is made by fermenting goat or sheep milk, which is then strained to remove the whey. The resulting thick yogurt is salted and shaped into round balls. These balls are then left to dry in the sun, resulting in a hard, dry product that can be stored for long periods without refrigeration.

Culinary Uses

Jameed is most famously used in the preparation of Mansaf, where it is reconstituted with water to form a sauce that is poured over rice and lamb. The unique flavor of Jameed gives Mansaf its distinctive taste. It can also be used in other dishes or as a flavoring agent in soups and stews.

Cultural Significance

In Jordanian culture, Jameed is more than just a food item; it is a symbol of hospitality and tradition. The preparation and serving of Mansaf, with Jameed as a key component, is often associated with celebrations and gatherings.

Storage and Preservation

Due to its dry and hard nature, Jameed can be stored for extended periods. It is typically kept in a cool, dry place and can be grated or broken into pieces when needed for cooking.

Related pages

• Mansaf
• Yogurt
• Jordanian cuisine