5 days ago
Traditional Dhofari cuisine spices up khareef season
Muscat, Aug 12
Khareef in Dhofar is a complete sensory journey — where the cool, rainy weather, the aroma of fresh greenery and the taste of authentic Omani flavours come together to create unforgettable memories.
Dhofari cuisine is deeply connected to its land and history. It is built around local meats, grains, dairy products and a unique mix of Omani and Indian spices passed down through generations.
During Khareef Dhofar Season, the experience of tasting these flavours becomes even more special against the backdrop of misty mountains and cool breezes.
'The Khareef Dhofar Season draws tourists to try more of our traditional dishes', says Chef Salim al Maashani, who runs a local restaurant in Salalah's Al Haffa Souq. 'From slow-cooked Shuwa to tropical fruits, every flavour tells the story of Dhofar'. Dhofari Shuwa (Traditional Barbecue) is cooked slowly in an underground oven or over charcoal, offering smoky, tender bites that pair perfectly with the misty, cool weather.
Also, there is harees, a comforting wheat-and-meat dish simmered for hours until creamy, while Aseeda — a sweet made from flour, ghee and local honey — warms the soul on rainy evenings.
This is in addition to farfaina (Dried Fish) which is a bold and authentic flavour of the sea, reflecting Dhofar's rich fishing heritage, perfect for visitors seeking a true local experience.
Fresh milk, yoghurt and ghee remain a staple in Dhofari households and provide a simple yet authentic taste of the region's pastoral traditions.
No culinary journey in Salalah is complete without Omani Halwa, a delicacy made with saffron, cardamom and rose water, often served warm. Visitors enjoy it alongside traditional Omani coffee (Qahwa), flavoured with cardamom and sometimes saffron, creating a welcoming ritual that reflects Dhofari hospitality.
Tourists often describe these moments — sitting in a traditional majlis, sipping aromatic coffee while tasting the rich, silky halwa — as one of the highlights of their trip.
Khareef brings life to Dhofar's farms, turning the region into a paradise of fresh fruits. Fresh Coconuts, enjoyed straight from the shell, are sold along the scenic roadsides.
'I never forget the taste of fresh coconut water in the middle of the misty hills', says Mariam Mohammed, a frequent visitor from Bahrain. 'It's the perfect complement to Salalah's magical weather'.
Enjoying local cuisine in Khareef is more than a meal — it's an immersive cultural experience. From trying Shuwa and Harees after a mountain hike, to sipping Omani coffee with halwa in a rain-cooled majlis, every moment connects visitors to Dhofar's soul.
Tourism researchers explain that Local foods, tropical fruits and the ritual of Omani coffee have become key highlights for tourists. Khareef Dhofar Season combines nature, culture and gastronomy in a single experience.
