Bahraini Muhammar with Rice
A sweet and savory rice dish, Muhammar is a popular Bahraini specialty often served as a side or a light main. It features rice cooked with dates, cardamom, and a touch of ghee, offering a comforting and aromatic flavor profile.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Basmati rice(rinsed and soaked for 30 minutes)
- 3 cups Water
- 1 cup Medjool dates(pitted and chopped)
- 3 tbsp Ghee
- 4 crushed Cardamom pods
- 1 small Cinnamon stick
- 1 tsp Salt
- 2 tbsp Sugar(optional, adjust to taste)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Drain the soaked rice and set aside.
- 2
In a heavy-bottomed pot, melt the ghee over medium heat. Add the crushed cardamom pods and cinnamon stick, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- 3
Add the chopped dates to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring gently, until they soften slightly.
- 4
Add the drained rice, salt, and optional sugar to the pot. Stir well to combine with the dates and spices.
- 5
Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed.
- 6
Once cooked, let the rice rest, covered, for 10 minutes off the heat. Fluff gently with a fork before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the dates are soft and sweet for the best flavor.
- ✓Adjust the sugar according to your preference for sweetness.
- ✓For a richer flavor, use a mix of ghee and butter.
🔄 Variations
- Add a handful of toasted almonds or pistachios for texture.
- Incorporate a pinch of saffron for added color and aroma.