Bahraini Vegetable Barley Porridge (Hareesat Al-Khudhar)
A hearty and wholesome vegan take on the traditional Harees, this dish replaces meat with a medley of vegetables and pearl barley, simmered into a creamy, comforting porridge. It's a testament to Bahrain's evolving culinary landscape, showcasing how traditional dishes can be adapted with local produce and global trends.
🧂 Ingredients
- 150 g Pearl barley
- 1 liter Vegetable broth
- 1 small Onion(finely chopped)
- 1 medium Carrot(grated)
- 1 medium Zucchini(grated)
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 1/2 tsp Cumin
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Coriander leaves(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the pearl barley under cold water. In a large saucepan or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- 2
Add the grated carrot and zucchini to the pot. Stir in the cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 3
Add the rinsed pearl barley and the vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- 4
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 40-45 minutes, or until the barley is tender and the mixture has thickened to a porridge-like consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- 5
If the porridge becomes too thick, add a little more vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- 6
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- 7
Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh coriander leaves.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can add other vegetables like bell peppers, green beans, or even spinach.
- ✓Ensure the barley is well-rinsed to remove excess starch.
- ✓This dish is best served immediately, but leftovers can be reheated gently with a splash of broth or water.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of turmeric for color and a subtle earthy flavor.
- Incorporate a small amount of finely chopped chili pepper for a hint of spice.
- For a different texture, try using quinoa instead of barley.