Muhammar | FoodieAtlas

Ingredients

2 cups basmati rice, rinsed and soaked for 30 minutes
4 cups water
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup dates, pitted and chopped
1/4 cup raisins
1/4 cup slivered almonds
1/4 cup butter or ghee
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/4 teaspoon ground saffron, soaked in 2 tablespoons warm water
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon rose water (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Rice

In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the soaked basmati rice and salt. Cook until the rice is al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sweet Mixture

In the same pot, melt the butter or ghee over medium heat.

Add the granulated sugar, chopped dates, raisins, slivered almonds, ground cinnamon, and ground cardamom. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.

Combine the Rice and Sweet Mixture

Add the cooked rice back into the pot with the sweet mixture. Gently fold the rice into the sweet mixture until it is evenly coated.

Pour the soaked saffron and its water over the rice and mix gently.

Simmer the Muhammar

Reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the rice simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the flavors are well combined.

If using, sprinkle the rose water over the rice and mix gently.

Serve

Transfer the Muhammar to a serving platter. Serve warm as a side dish or dessert.