Bariis Iskukaris
A flavorful Somali rice dish, often prepared for celebrations, featuring aromatic spices, tender meat (usually lamb or beef), and sometimes dried fruits and nuts.
🧂 Ingredients
- 3 cups Basmati rice
- 1 kg Lamb or beef(cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 2 large Onions(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 400 g Tomatoes(crushed)
- 1/4 cup Vegetable oil
- 1 piece Cinnamon stick
- 4 pods Cardamom pods
- 3 whole Cloves
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- 1 tsp Cumin powder
- 1/2 cup Raisins(optional)
- 1/4 cup Almonds(slivered, optional)
- to taste Salt
- 4 cups Water or broth
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain well before cooking.
- 2
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Brown the meat cubes on all sides. Remove the meat and set aside.
- 3
Add the chopped onions to the same pot and sauté until softened and lightly browned, about 8-10 minutes.
- 4
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 5
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, turmeric, coriander, and cumin powders. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 6
Return the browned meat to the pot. Add salt to taste and enough water or broth to cover the meat. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1 hour, or until the meat is tender.
- 7
Add the drained basmati rice to the pot with the meat and sauce. Stir gently to combine. Add the 4 cups of water or broth. Bring to a boil.
- 8
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover tightly, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- 9
If using, stir in the raisins and almonds during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- 10
Let the rice rest, covered, for 10 minutes before fluffing with a fork and serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the meat is tender before adding the rice.
- ✓Adjust the spices to your preference.
- ✓For a richer flavor, use beef or lamb broth instead of water.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of saffron for color and aroma.
- Incorporate other dried fruits like apricots or dates.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.