Saudi Saleeg – Traditional Saudi Recipe – How to Make Saudi Saleeg

Saudi Saleeg – Traditional Saudi Recipe – How to Make Saudi Saleeg

Saudi Saleeg is one of the most iconic and beloved traditional dishes in the rich cuisine of Saudi Arabia. Widely popular across the Kingdom and neighboring countries, this hearty dish is known for its unique flavor and high nutritional value.

Saleeg is especially beneficial for the body, thanks to its rich content of proteins, essential vitamins that support immune function, and a variety of minerals such as iron, copper, calcium, zinc, sodium, and potassium.

---

Ingredients for Saudi Saleeg (serves 6):

 

• 4 chicken breast pieces

• 1 stick of cinnamon

• 1 piece of fresh ginger

• 3 cloves

• 5 cardamom pods

• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 onion

• 2 pieces of mastic gum

• 2 cups of milk

• 1½ cups of Egyptian (short-grain) rice

• ½ teaspoon rose water

• 1 teaspoon butter

---

How to Make Saudi Saleeg:

Begin by placing the chicken in a large pot of water. Bring it to a boil, and once foam begins to form on the surface, skim it off continuously until the chicken is cooked through.

Add the ginger, garlic paste, chopped onion, cardamom pods, cloves, and cinnamon stick. Once the mixture returns to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes.

Next, add the mastic gum, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for an additional 3 minutes.

Remove the chicken from the pot and discard the stock, keeping only three cups aside. Add the rice to the reserved broth, bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and cook until the rice is fully tender.

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the milk, along with more salt and pepper if desired, and let it simmer until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency.

Meanwhile, debone the chicken and sauté it in a small amount of butter until lightly golden.

To serve, spoon the creamy rice mixture into serving plates, drizzle with rose water, top with the sautéed chicken, and enjoy this delicious, comforting meal with your family.