Bariis Cadde (White Rice with Spiced Ghee)
Bariis Cadde is a simple yet flavorful Somali rice dish where fluffy white rice is infused with fragrant spices and enriched with spiced ghee (clarified butter). It serves as a comforting staple and a perfect accompaniment to various stews and meats.
🧂 Ingredients
- 3 cups Basmati rice(rinsed thoroughly)
- 4.5 cups Water
- 4 tbsp Ghee or unsalted butter
- 4-5 Cardamom pods
- 2-3 Cloves
- 1 inch piece Cinnamon stick
- 1.5 tsp Salt(or to taste)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the basmati rice under cold running water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
💡 Tip: Rinsing removes excess starch, leading to fluffier rice. - 2
In a medium saucepan, melt the ghee or butter over medium heat. Add the cardamom pods, cloves, and cinnamon stick. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
⏱️ 2 minutes💡 Tip: Be careful not to burn the spices. - 3
Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and stir to coat the grains with the spiced ghee. Toast the rice for about 1-2 minutes.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 4
Pour in the water and add the salt. Bring the mixture to a boil.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan tightly, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
⏱️ 20 minutes💡 Tip: Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to trap the steam. - 6
Once cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it stand, covered, for another 5 minutes. Fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving, removing the whole spices if desired.
⏱️ 5 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, use pure ghee.
- ✓Adjust the amount of spices to your preference.
- ✓This rice pairs wonderfully with Somali meat stews like Maraq Hilib.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of saffron for a golden hue and subtle flavor.
- Incorporate a bay leaf along with the other whole spices.