Shuwa – Traditional Omani National Dish Recipe

Shuwa is one of Oman’s most treasured dishes. It’s made by marinating lamb in a blend of aromatic Omani spices, then cooking it slowly until it becomes incredibly tender and full of smoky, rich flavor. Traditionally, Shuwa is wrapped in banana or palm leaves and cooked in an underground sand oven for up to 48 hours — but this recipe gives you a delicious and authentic version that can be made at home using a regular oven.

Fragrant, festive, and deeply cultural, Shuwa represents Omani hospitality at its best.

Ingredients for Omani Shuwa

For the Meat

  • 2–3 kg lamb shoulder or leg (bone-in for best flavor)

For the Omani Shuwa Spice Marinade

  • 4 tbsp olive oil

  • 2 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice

  • 1 tbsp garlic paste

  • 1 tbsp ginger paste

  • 1 tbsp cumin

  • 1 tbsp coriander

  • 1 tbsp paprika

  • 1 tsp turmeric

  • 1 tsp black pepper

  • 1 tsp cinnamon

  • ½ tsp cloves

  • ½ tsp cardamom

  • 1–2 tsp chili powder (optional for heat)

  • 1½ tsp salt

For Wrapping

  • Banana leaves or foil (banana leaves give traditional aroma)

How to Make Omani Shuwa (Step-by-Step)

1. Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix:
oil, vinegar/lemon, garlic, ginger, and all spices until a thick paste forms.

2. Marinate the Lamb

  • Pierce the lamb with a knife so the marinade can soak in.

  • Rub the entire lamb generously with the spice paste.

  • Cover and marinate in the fridge overnight (12–24 hours).

3. Wrap the Lamb

  • Wrap the lamb tightly in banana leaves (or foil).

  • Secure well so juices don’t escape.

4. Slow Cook

Oven method (authentic flavor at home):

  • Preheat oven to 160°C / 320°F.

  • Place wrapped lamb in a deep pan.

  • Cook for 3½–5 hours depending on size until extremely tender.

Tip: Lower and slower = more authentic Shuwa texture.

5. Unwrap & Serve

  • Let it rest for 15 minutes.

  • Carefully unwrap the lamb.

  • Shred or carve — the meat should fall off the bone.

Serve with:

  • Omani rice (spiced basmati rice)

  • Salad

  • Yogurt

Tips for Authentic Omani Flavor

  • Lamb shoulder works best because of higher fat content.

  • Add a sprinkle of Omani balsar spice mix if you have it.

  • Banana leaves add a traditional smoky aroma.

  • Marinate longer for deeper flavor.

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