Bariis iyo Khudrad La Xawaashay (Spiced Rice with Mixed Vegetables)
A fragrant and colorful rice dish infused with aromatic Somali spices and a medley of fresh vegetables. This vegetarian staple is a delightful accompaniment to many Somali meals or can be enjoyed on its own.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Basmati rice(rinsed until water runs clear)
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1 large Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tsp Ground cumin
- 1 tsp Ground coriander
- 0.5 tsp Turmeric powder
- 0.25 tsp Ground cinnamon
- 0.125 tsp Ground cloves
- 1 medium Carrots(diced)
- 0.5 medium Green bell pepper(diced)
- 1 medium Tomato(chopped)
- 3.5 cups Water or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.25 cup Raisins(optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak for 20 minutes and drain.
💡 Tip: Soaking helps the rice cook evenly and become more fluffy. - 2
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- 3
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, and cloves. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
- 4
Add the diced carrots, green bell pepper, and chopped tomato. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
- 5
Add the drained rice to the pot and stir to coat it with the spices and vegetables. Pour in the water or vegetable broth and add salt. Bring to a boil.
💡 Tip: Ensure all the rice grains are submerged in the liquid. - 6
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. If using raisins, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- 7
Remove from heat and let it stand, covered, for 5-10 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓You can customize the vegetables based on what's in season or your preference. Peas, corn, or green beans are also great additions.
- ✓For a deeper flavor, use homemade vegetable broth.
- ✓Ensure the pot is covered tightly to trap steam for even cooking.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of saffron for a more vibrant color and aroma.
- For a non-vegetarian version, you can add cooked chicken or lamb pieces.