Traditional Omani Shuwa Recipe

Shuwa is Oman’s most iconic festive dish — a slow-cooked, spice-marinated lamb wrapped in leaves and roasted underground for up to 48 hours.

What is Shuwa?

Shuwa is a traditional Omani lamb dish prepared by marinating meat in a rich spice paste, wrapping it in banana or palm leaves, and slow-cooking it in an underground sand oven.

• Eid Al-Adha
• Weddings
• National celebrations
• Family feasts

Ingredients

Meat

• 3–5 kg lamb leg or shoulder (bone-in)

Shuwa Spice Marinade

• 10 garlic cloves
• 2 tbsp ginger paste
• 6–8 dried red chilies
• 2 tbsp cumin seeds
• 2 tbsp coriander seeds
• 1 tbsp black pepper
• 6 cardamom pods
• 4 cloves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 tbsp turmeric
• 3 tbsp vinegar or lime juice
• Salt to taste

Cooking Method

1. Score & Marinate: Rub marinade deeply into the lamb.
2. Wrap: Use banana leaves or foil.
3. Prepare Pit: Heat charcoal in sand pit.
4. Slow Cook: Seal and cook 12–48 hrs.
5. Serve: Shred and plate.

Recipe Summary