Iraqi Timman – Iraqi Timman Recipe – How to Prepare Traditional Iraqi Timman

Iraqi Timman – Iraqi Timman Recipe – How to Prepare Traditional Iraqi Timman

Iraqi Timman is one of the most delicious and iconic dishes from Iraqi cuisine, beloved for generations. It is a staple dish served at gatherings, feasts, and especially during the holy month of Ramadan.

In this recipe from Arabi Cook Kitchen, we'll walk you through the proper traditional method for making this flavorful rice and broad bean dish.

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Ingredients for Iraqi Timman:

 

• 3 cups of whole broad beans

• 5 tablespoons of saffron

• 3 tablespoons of fennel seeds (shomar)

• 4 tablespoons of turmeric

• 2 teaspoons of salt (or to taste)

• ¼ block of butter (or 5 tablespoons of ghee)

• 1 kg (approx. 2.2 lbs) of lamb shank meat (mozat)

• 1 large onion

• 2 liters of water

• ½ lemon, sliced

• 3 sticks of cinnamon

• A few cardamom pods

• 1 kg (approx. 2.2 lbs) of rice

• ¼ cup of corn oil

• 2½ liters of warm water

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How to Prepare Iraqi Timman:

1. Cook the Rice:
   Rinse the rice well in cold water.
   In a pot, combine the rice with 1 tablespoon of salt, a splash of oil, and 2 liters of water.
   Cook over low heat for about 10 minutes, until the rice becomes slightly tender.

2. Prepare the Broad Beans:
   In another pot, place the broad beans along with some butter or ghee, and cook over low heat while stirring until the beans soften slightly.

3. Layering the Dish:
   In a large cooking pot, add 2 tablespoons of ghee at the bottom.
   Begin layering the dish:

   • First, a layer of rice

   • Then a layer of broad beans

   • Sprinkle a portion of saffron, turmeric, and fennel seeds over each layer.

   Continue layering rice and beans, alternating with spices, until all the ingredients are used.

4. Add Flavor Pockets:
   Make small holes in the rice layers using the handle of a spoon.
   Insert a small piece of butter into each hole.

5. Steam:
   Cover the pot tightly and cook over low heat for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse.

6. Cook the Meat:
   In a separate pot, add water and the lamb shank pieces, then add lemon slices, cardamom, cinnamon sticks, onion slices, and a bit of salt.
   Bring to a boil and cook until the meat becomes tender and fully done.

7. Serve:
   In a large serving dish, spread out the rice and bean mixture.
   Arrange the cooked lamb pieces on top.
   Garnish with toasted almonds and pine nuts if desired.

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This was the traditional Iraqi Timman recipe, brought to you by Arabi Cook Kitchen. Try it in your own home and let us know how it turns out in the comments!

Sahtein! (Enjoy your meal!)