Harees | FoodieAtlas

Ingredients

1 cup whole wheat grains (soaked overnight)
1/2 pound (225g) chicken or lamb, cut into pieces
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
4 cups chicken or beef broth
2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
Fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish, optional)
Sliced almonds (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Grains

Drain the soaked whole wheat grains and set aside.

Cook the Meat

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil or ghee over medium heat.

Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Add the chicken or lamb pieces and cook until browned on all sides.

Mix in the ground cinnamon, cardamom, cumin, turmeric, black pepper, and salt. Cook for 2 minutes to toast the spices.

Cook the Harees

Add the drained whole wheat grains to the pot. Stir to combine.

Pour in the chicken or beef broth and bring to a boil.

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the grains are tender and have broken down into a porridge-like consistency. You may need to add more broth or water if the mixture becomes too thick.

Serve

Once the harees has reached the desired consistency, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and sliced almonds if desired.