Syrian Freekeh with Chicken and Nuts
A hearty and flavorful dish made with roasted green wheat (freekeh), tender chicken, aromatic spices, and a generous topping of toasted nuts. It's a staple for special occasions and family gatherings.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Freekeh(rinsed)
- 1 kg Chicken(cut into pieces (bone-in or boneless thighs))
- 2 medium Onions(sliced)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 4 cups Chicken broth
- 1 tsp Allspice
- 1/2 tsp Cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp Cardamom(ground)
- 1/2 tsp Turmeric
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 3 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 cup Mixed nuts(almonds, pine nuts, pistachios, toasted)
- 1/4 cup Parsley(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken pieces on all sides. Remove chicken and set aside.
⏱️ 10-15 minutes - 2
Add the sliced onions to the same pot and sauté until softened and lightly golden. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
⏱️ 8-10 minutes - 3
Stir in the rinsed freekeh, allspice, cinnamon, cardamom, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Toast the freekeh for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 4
Return the chicken pieces to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the liquid covers the freekeh and chicken. Bring to a boil.
💡 Tip: If needed, add a little more broth or water. - 5
Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until the freekeh is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. The chicken should be cooked through.
⏱️ 60 minutes💡 Tip: Avoid stirring too much to prevent the freekeh from becoming mushy. - 6
While the freekeh is cooking, toast the mixed nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
⏱️ 5-7 minutes - 7
Once the freekeh is cooked, let it rest, covered, for 10 minutes off the heat.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 8
Fluff the freekeh with a fork. Serve the freekeh and chicken in a large platter. Garnish generously with the toasted nuts and chopped parsley.
💡 Tip: Serve hot.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure you rinse the freekeh thoroughly to remove any dust or debris.
- ✓Adjust the amount of spices according to your preference for a more or less intensely spiced dish.
- ✓Toasting the nuts is crucial for enhancing their flavor and texture.
🔄 Variations
- Use lamb or beef instead of chicken for a richer flavor.
- Add dried fruits like raisins or apricots for a touch of sweetness.
- Incorporate a tablespoon of pomegranate molasses into the broth for a tangy note.