Kalluun Bariis (Spiced Fish with Rice)
A fragrant and flavorful Somali dish featuring fish marinated in aromatic spices, often pan-fried or grilled, and served alongside well-seasoned basmati rice. It highlights the coastal influence on Somali cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 600 g Firm white fish fillets(such as tilapia, cod, or snapper, cut into large chunks)
- 1.5 cups Basmati rice
- 3 cups Water or fish broth
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(finely chopped)
- 0.5 cup Cilantro(freshly chopped, plus more for garnish)
- 2 tbsp Lemon juice
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 0.5 tsp Turmeric
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- 0.25 tsp Cardamom(ground)
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil(divided)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
- 2
In a bowl, combine the fish chunks with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, turmeric, coriander powder, cardamom, salt, and pepper. Mix gently to coat the fish. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- 3
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- 4
Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for another 5 minutes until they start to break down.
- 5
Add the rinsed rice, water (or broth), and half of the chopped cilantro to the pot. Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- 6
While the rice is cooking, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a separate skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated fish chunks and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook.
- 7
Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork. Stir in the remaining chopped cilantro.
- 8
Serve the cooked fish alongside the spiced rice. Garnish with extra cilantro.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓You can also grill or bake the marinated fish instead of pan-frying.
- ✓Adjust the spice levels to your preference. Add a pinch of chili flakes for heat.
- ✓Ensure the fish is cooked through but still moist.
🔄 Variations
- Use other types of seafood like shrimp or calamari.
- Add finely chopped green bell peppers or a pinch of saffron to the rice for extra flavor and color.