Iskudhex iyo Malawax Cusub (Mixed Grains with New Malawax)
A hearty and nutritious dish combining various grains and legumes, often prepared for gatherings. It's typically served with Malawax Cusub, a slightly different preparation of the popular Somali crepe, often made with a finer batter and a hint of sweetness.

🧂 Ingredients
- 1 cup Basmati rice
- 0.5 cup Red lentils
- 0.5 cup Chickpeas(cooked or canned, rinsed)
- 4 cups Vegetable broth
- 1 medium Onion(chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch Ginger(grated)
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Cumin powder
- 0.5 tsp Coriander powder
- 2 tbsp Ghee or oil
- to taste Salt and black pepper
- For Malawax Cusub:
- 1.5 cups All-purpose flour
- 2 cups Water
- 1 tbsp Sugar
- 0.5 tsp Yeast
- for cooking Ghee or oil
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the basmati rice and red lentils thoroughly. Set aside.
- 2
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the ghee or oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Stir in the turmeric, cumin, and coriander powders. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
- 5
Add the rinsed rice and lentils to the pot, along with the vegetable broth and cooked chickpeas. Bring to a boil.
- 6
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 40-50 minutes, or until the rice and lentils are tender and the liquid is absorbed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 7
While the Iskudhex is cooking, prepare the Malawax Cusub. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, water, sugar, and yeast until smooth. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes.
- 8
Heat a lightly greased non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Pour a thin layer of batter to form a crepe. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until lightly golden.
- 9
Serve the Iskudhex hot, with the freshly made Malawax Cusub on the side.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓You can add other grains like barley or millet for a more complex texture.
- ✓For a richer flavor, use chicken or beef broth instead of vegetable broth.
- ✓Ensure the malawax batter is smooth and free of lumps.
- ✓The malawax should be thin and delicate.
🔄 Variations
- Add diced carrots or potatoes to the Iskudhex for extra vegetables.
- Serve with a side of yogurt or a simple tomato salad.