Haneeth with Meat – Traditional Arabian Recipe

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Haneeth with Meat – Traditional Arabian Recipe

Haneeth with meat is a famous and hearty dish from the Gulf cuisine. Its roots trace back to Yemen, where it was first discovered, before spreading across the Arabian Peninsula.

This dish has ancient origins, so much so that it is even mentioned in the Qur’an, in Surah Hud, verse 69, where Allah says:
“And Our messengers came to Abraham with glad tidings. They said, ‘Peace.’ He answered, ‘Peace,’ and it was not long before he brought them a roasted calf (ʿijl ḥanīdh).”

The Arabic word ḥanīdh literally means “well-roasted meat.” Haneeth is known for its rich nutritional value but is considered a heavy dish, best eaten in moderation, especially for those with weight or health concerns, since it is high in fat.

Ingredients (Serves 6):

Haneeth with Meat

 

  • 3 kg of lamb or beef

  • 1 cup vegetable oil

  • 2 tomatoes, sliced

  • 3 cups rice

  • 5 cloves garlic

  • A pinch of saffron

  • 2 green bell peppers, sliced into rings

  • 2 teaspoons salt

  • 2 teaspoons black pepper

  • 1 teaspoon cumin

  • 1 teaspoon turmeric

  • 5 cardamom pods

  • A few lemon leaves

  • 1 tablespoon mixed spices

  • 3 bay leaves

  • 1 cinnamon stick

  • 5 cloves

  • Banana leaves (optional, for wrapping)

  • Almonds, raisins, and pine nuts for garnish

Method:

  1. Wash the meat thoroughly and place it in a large pot.

  2. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, turmeric, mixed spices, cumin, and black pepper. Rub this mixture well into the meat to season it.

  3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan, then sear the seasoned meat until browned on all sides.

  4. Meanwhile, soak the rice in water for about 30 minutes. During this time, rinse the banana leaves and lemon leaves well.

  5. Prepare a pressure cooker by lining the bottom with banana leaves (or lemon leaves). Add sliced onions, garlic, tomatoes, black pepper, and green peppers.

  6. Place the browned meat on top, cover it with more banana and lemon leaves, then close the pressure cooker tightly. Cook over low heat for about 1.5 hours, or until the meat is tender.

  7. While the meat cooks, prepare the rice. Bring water to a boil, add the soaked rice with a bit of oil and salt, stir lightly, then add saffron for flavor and color. Let the rice cook over low heat until fluffy.

  8. To serve, place the rice on a large serving dish, arrange the tender meat on top, and garnish with fried almonds, raisins, and pine nuts.

This dish is traditionally enjoyed with family, offering not only a delicious taste but also a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Arabian cuisine.

Bon appétit!

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