When you think of famous potato chip brands from abroad, what comes to mind? Lay’s? Pringles? Well, this time we’re bringing your attention to the somewhat unconventional “Chips Oman” – a Middle Eastern snack that you might not have heard of. Despite its relative obscurity to some, it’s actually an incredibly popular brand in the Middle East and is often hailed as the “most popular chips in the region.”
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Chips Oman, born in the Sultanate of Oman on the Arabian Peninsula, has gained a reputation for its distinctive flavor and crispy texture. With its aromatic spices and bold seasoning, this snack is sure to become your new addiction after just one taste.
Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a shareable treat with friends, Chips Oman has captivated fans with its unique taste. Be sure to give it a try!
Chips Oman: A Brief Overview
Situated on the eastern tip of the Arabian Peninsula is the Sultanate of Oman, a country that may not be familiar to many in Japan. Despite its lesser-known status, Oman is renowned for its rich Arab culture, unique landscapes, and, of course, its delicious culinary offerings. Among the local food favorites is “Chips Oman,” a snack that could be considered a national dish. Launched in 1983 by the Al Shaihani Group, Chips Oman has a long history in Oman and has not only been cherished domestically but has also gained attention globally, especially for its spicy flavor and intriguing packaging that sparks the curiosity of travelers.
Why “Chips Oman” and not “Oman Chips”?
As a side note, you might be wondering why it’s called “Chips Oman” and not the other way around – “Oman Chips.” In Arabic, the official language of Oman, there’s a grammatical rule that places adjectives after the noun they modify. This linguistic nuance gives us “Chips Oman,” offering a glimpse into the Arabic culture even through the snack’s name.
A Singular Flavor
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Now, let’s talk about the lineup of Chips Oman. Surprisingly, Chips Oman comes in only one flavor: “Chilli Flavour.” Despite having just one flavor, the snack has managed to captivate taste buds for years, proving that its taste is perfected and doesn’t require additional varieties. Described as having a unique and exotic flavor, the seasoning includes chili powder, paprika powder, onion extract, and a secret blend of local spices (the recipe is a closely guarded company secret).
It’s worth noting that all the ingredients are plant-based, making Chips Oman suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Truly, it’s Arab quality at its best.
Two Shapes to Choose From
There are two shapes of Chips Oman: the regular sliced type and the stick type that resembles Pringles but with a unique twist. Although there’s only one flavor, having two different shapes adds a bit of variety to the snack. The stick-type Chips Oman is a bit rarer, so it’s recommended to explore larger supermarkets for this particular variant.
Where to Find Chips Oman
If you’re wondering where to get your hands on Chips Oman, worry not. Chips Oman is widely available throughout Oman and the broader Arab region. Whether in supermarkets, convenience stores, or local coffee shops, you’ll almost always find Chips Oman, making it an integral part of daily life.
While individual serving-sized bags are common in stores, offering a modest 15g per bag, for those who can’t get enough, larger quantities are available. Supermarkets often carry 24-bag packs, and wholesalers might even have business-sized packs containing 50 bags.
Various Recipe Ideas
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Chips Oman is not just a snack; it’s a versatile ingredient that can be used in various recipes to enhance your culinary experience. Here are a few tried-and-true combinations:
1. Cheese Pastry x Chips Oman:
A local favorite involves sandwiching Chips Oman between slices of Atyab’s Cheese Pastry, creating a delicious and crunchy treat.
2. Lugaimat x Chips Oman:
Lugaimat is a traditional Arab dish, a kind of salty crepe. Mixing Chips Oman into Lugaimat is a popular way to enjoy this dish. When buying Lugaimat from street vendors, you can customize your order by indicating that you want Chips Oman mixed in.
In Conclusion
Chips Oman is a snack to be proud of in Oman, and its unique flavor and history have attracted people far and wide. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this snack offers a perfect opportunity to savor a part of Oman’s delicious food culture. Easily accessible not only in Oman but also in other Middle Eastern countries like the UAE and Qatar, Chips Oman is a snack worth trying during your travels or as a delightful souvenir to bring back to Japan. When in Oman or any other Arab country, be sure to enjoy Chips Oman just like the locals do!
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