Emirati Harees – Ingredients and Preparation Method for Emirati Harees

Emirati Harees – Ingredients and Preparation Method for Emirati Harees

Harees is a popular dish in the Arabian Gulf region, consisting of wheat and boneless meat. Alternatively, chicken can be used in place of meat.

Cumin and onions are also added to Emirati Harees.

This dish requires a lot of water for cooking.

Harees is considered one of the traditional and well-known dishes in the UAE, often served during special occasions and holidays. It is highly nutritious and essential for the human body.

In this article from the cooking site Arabicook.com, we will provide the ingredients for Emirati Harees along with its preparation method.

Ingredients for Emirati Harees:

• Cracked wheat (Harees), soaked in water for at least two hours (amount depends on the number of people).
• 1 kilogram of boneless meat.
• 1 onion, diced.
• 4 liters of hot water.
• Salt, to taste.
• ½ cup of olive oil.
• Finely ground cumin. 
• Preparation Method for Emirati Harees:

In a large pot over medium heat, add the olive oil and diced onion, stirring until the onion turns golden.

Add the boneless meat to the pot, stirring it with the onions and olive oil. Then sprinkle cumin and continue stirring.

Cook the meat until it caramelizes.

Drain the soaked wheat and add it to the pot with the meat and onions. Pour in all the hot water; it should be plenty since the cooking time is long, about 4 hours. You can add more water if the mixture becomes too dry during cooking.

Let the mixture come to a boil, then cover the pot with foil and place the lid tightly on top.

Simmer on low heat for 4 hours. Do not lift the lid during the first 2.5 hours of cooking.

After 2.5 hours, open the pot and add salt to taste. Stir, then remove the pot from the heat.

Using a hand mixer, blend the mixture thoroughly. If you prefer the meat unshredded, you can remove it before blending and return it to the pot afterward.

Return the pot to the stove and cook for another 1.5 hours, completing the total 4-hour cooking time.

Finally, serve the Harees in a dish, garnished with ghee and caramelized onions. You can also add dried black lime for extra flavor.