Macruuf iyo Bariis
Macruuf iyo Bariis is a flavorful Somali dish featuring tender chunks of lamb or beef cooked with aromatic spices and served over fragrant rice. It's a comforting and hearty meal often prepared for special occasions or family gatherings.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Lamb or Beef(cut into 1.5-inch cubes)
- 500 g Basmati Rice(rinsed and soaked for 30 minutes)
- 2 large Onions(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 400 g Tomatoes(crushed or pureed)
- 4 tbsp Vegetable Oil
- 1 Cinnamon Stick
- 4 Cardamom Pods
- 4 Cloves
- 1 tsp Turmeric Powder
- 1 tsp Coriander Powder
- 1 tsp Cumin Powder
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black Pepper
- as needed Water or Broth
- for garnish Fresh Coriander
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the meat cubes on all sides. Remove meat and set aside.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Add chopped onions to the pot and sauté until softened and lightly browned. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
⏱️ 8 minutes - 3
Stir in the turmeric, coriander, and cumin powders. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
⏱️ 30 seconds - 4
Add the crushed tomatoes, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and cloves. Return the browned meat to the pot. Season with salt and black pepper.
- 5
Pour in enough water or broth to cover the meat. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the meat is tender.
⏱️ 1 hour 30 minutes💡 Tip: Check liquid levels periodically and add more water/broth if needed. - 6
While the meat is simmering, cook the basmati rice. In a separate pot, combine the rinsed and soaked rice with 750ml of water or broth, a pinch of salt, and a drizzle of oil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
⏱️ 20 minutes - 7
Once the meat is tender, remove the cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and cloves. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. The sauce should have thickened slightly.
💡 Tip: If the sauce is too thin, simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce. - 8
Serve the tender meat and its rich sauce over the fluffy basmati rice. Garnish with fresh coriander.
💡 Tip: A side of salad or a simple yogurt dip complements this dish well.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, use beef or lamb broth instead of water.
- ✓Adjust the spice levels to your preference.
- ✓Soaking the rice helps it cook evenly and become more fluffy.
🔄 Variations
- Add some chopped dried apricots or raisins in the last 30 minutes of simmering for a touch of sweetness.
- Incorporate a few green chilies for added heat.
- Use chicken or fish for a lighter version, adjusting cooking times accordingly.