Bariis iyo Digir La Xawaashay (Spiced Rice with Chickpeas)
A fragrant and flavorful rice dish from Somalia, featuring basmati rice cooked with aromatic spices and tender chickpeas. This vegetarian dish is a comforting and versatile side or main course.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 cups Basmati rice
- 1 can (15-ounce) Chickpeas(drained and rinsed)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- 1 small Cinnamon stick
- 3 whole Cloves
- 3 whole Cardamom pods
- 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon Coriander powder
- 0.5 teaspoon Turmeric powder
- 2.5 cups Water or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper(freshly ground, or to taste)
- 0.25 cup Fresh cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
- 0.25 cup Raisins(optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
- 2
In a medium saucepan or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Stir in the cinnamon stick, cloves, cardamom pods, cumin seeds, coriander powder, and turmeric powder. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant.
- 5
Add the rinsed rice to the pot and stir to coat it with the spices and oil. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- 6
Pour in the water or vegetable broth. Add the drained and rinsed chickpeas, salt, and black pepper. If using raisins, add them now.
- 7
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked. Do not stir during this time.
- 8
Once cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it rest, covered, for 5-10 minutes. This allows the rice to steam and become fluffy.
- 9
Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Remove the whole spices (cinnamon stick, cloves, cardamom pods) if desired.
- 10
Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For extra flavor, you can lightly toast the cumin seeds before adding them.
- ✓If you prefer a softer rice, you can soak it in water for 30 minutes before cooking.
- ✓This dish pairs well with stews or grilled meats.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like diced carrots or peas along with the chickpeas.
- For a richer flavor, use chicken or beef broth instead of water.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a touch of brightness.