Iskudhex
Iskudhex is a flavorful and aromatic rice dish, often prepared for special occasions, featuring tender meat (typically lamb or beef), fragrant spices, and sometimes vegetables. It's a one-pot meal that embodies Somali hospitality and culinary tradition.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Lamb or Beef(cut into 1.5-inch cubes)
- 3 cups Basmati Rice(rinsed thoroughly)
- 2 large Onions(finely chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 400 g Tomatoes(crushed or pureed)
- 4 tbsp Vegetable Oil or Ghee
- 1 piece Cinnamon Stick
- 4 pods Cardamom Pods
- 3 whole Cloves
- 1 tsp Turmeric Powder
- 1 tsp Coriander Powder
- 1 tsp Cumin Powder
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black Pepper
- 5 cups Water or Broth(adjust as needed for rice)
- 1/4 cup Raisins(optional, for garnish)
- 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat oil or ghee in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the meat on all sides. Remove meat and set aside.
💡 Tip: Ensure the pot is hot before adding meat for a good sear. - 2
Add chopped onions to the pot and sauté until golden brown, about 8-10 minutes. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 3
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, turmeric, coriander, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Return the browned meat to the pot. Add the cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and cloves. Pour in enough water or broth to cover the meat by about an inch. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1 hour, or until the meat is tender.
⏱️ 1 hour - 5
Once the meat is tender, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Add the rinsed basmati rice to the pot, ensuring it's evenly distributed. Add more water or broth if needed, so the liquid is about 1 inch above the rice.
💡 Tip: The ideal liquid to rice ratio is usually 1.5:1 or 2:1, depending on the rice. - 6
Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
⏱️ 25 minutes💡 Tip: Avoid lifting the lid during this time to allow the rice to steam properly. - 7
Once cooked, let the Iskudhex rest, covered, for 10 minutes off the heat. Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Garnish with raisins (if using) and fresh cilantro before serving.
⏱️ 10 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, use ghee instead of vegetable oil.
- ✓Adjust the whole spices to your preference; you can also add a bay leaf.
- ✓If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red chili flakes with the other spices.
🔄 Variations
- Add chopped carrots or potatoes along with the rice for a more complete meal.
- Use chicken or fish for a lighter version.