Middle Eastern cuisine, with its signature rice dishes, offers a wealth of flavors recognized worldwide. Influenced by culinary traditions from various cultures in the region, Middle Eastern cuisine is known for its rich flavors, fresh meat ingredients, and the use of spices and herbs.
Some of the Middle Eastern dishes that have gained international acclaim are various rice dishes, such as Mandi Rice and Kebuli Rice. These Middle Eastern rice dishes are often served during the holy month of Ramadan in Indonesia. Discover the 10 rice dishes originating from the Middle East in this article.
1. Mandhi Rice
Mandhi Rice is a popular Middle Eastern rice dish in Saudi Arabia and Yemen. It consists of rice cooked with spices like cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon, often served with meat (usually lamb, chicken, or goat) cooked with various spices and sauces.
2. Kebuli Rice
Kebuli Rice is commonly found in Iraq, Jordan, and Syria. Originating from Persia, it has been adapted to local tastes. Kebuli Rice uses rice cooked with cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon, usually served with meat (usually lamb or chicken). Additionally, this dish is garnished with roasted almonds or nuts to add richness and texture.
3. Kabsah Rice
Kabsah Rice is beloved by people from Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Gulf countries. Similar to Mandhi Rice, it differs in spices and presentation. Usually, Kabsah Rice is served with vegetables or salad as a side dish, along with spicy sauce or chutney.
4. Maqlubah Rice
Maqlubah Rice is quite famous in Palestine, Jordan, and other Levantine countries. This dish consists of rice cooked with meat (usually chicken, lamb, or beef), vegetables like eggplant, potatoes, and tomatoes, along with spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, and black pepper.
5. Kushari Rice
Kushari Rice is a popular rice dish in Egypt. Its main ingredients are a mixture of rice and lentils cooked together, served with macaroni, chicken feet, and tomato sauce. Usually, rice and lentils are cooked first with spices like cumin, cinnamon, and garlic.
6. Zereshk Polo Rice
Zereshk Polo Rice is a distinctive rice dish from Iran. It involves cooking rice with barberry (zereshk), which provides a sweet and sour taste, mixed with saffron for a unique aroma and color. Additionally, Zereshk Polo Rice is often garnished with almonds and chicken, or lamb meat cooked with spices.
7. Mujaddara Rice
Mujaddara Rice is cooked with spices like cumin powder and cinnamon to create a rich flavor. Typically, Mujaddara Rice is served with tabbouleh or yogurt as a side dish.
8. Pilaf Rice
Pilaf Rice is widely enjoyed in the Middle East, Central Asia, and the Caucasus region. This dish is made from rice cooked with additional ingredients such as meat, chicken, or legumes, along with spices and other seasonings. Pilaf Rice usually has a soft texture and rich flavor.
9. Kubba Rice
Kubba Rice is a famous dish in Middle Eastern countries, especially Iraq. It involves cooking rice with spices, herbs, and minced meat, usually lamb or beef.
Afterward, the rice is shaped into small balls or kubba and then fried until golden brown and crispy. Kubba Rice is often served with sauce, such as tomato sauce or yogurt with added mint powder.
10. Biranj Rice
Biranj Rice originates from India and is a rice dish cooked with spices, oil, or butter. Generally, Biranj Rice is served with nuts, raisins, and pieces of meat or chicken. You can find Biranj Rice at special events, such as religious celebrations or family gatherings.
Middle Eastern cuisine showcases richness and diversity, with rice dishes like Mandi Rice, Kebuli Rice, Kabsa Rice, and others, enriching the flavors and culinary traditions worldwide. Are you interested in trying them out?
