Emmawash | Traditional Dish (Bahraini Local Food) 🇧🇭

chicken

🥗Healthier: tofu

💰Cheaper: chicken thighs

Tofu provides a plant-based option, while chicken thighs are more affordable.

saffron

🥗Healthier: turmeric

💰Cheaper: yellow food coloring

Turmeric adds color and flavor at a lower cost.

almonds

🥗Healthier: walnuts

💰Cheaper: sunflower seeds

Walnuts offer healthy fats, while sunflower seeds are budget-friendly.

raisins

🥗Healthier: dried cranberries

💰Cheaper: sugar-free dried fruit

Cranberries provide a tart flavor, and sugar-free options are often less expensive.

Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear.

Soak rice in water for 30 minutes, then drain.

Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Add sliced onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic and ginger, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add chicken pieces and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Sprinkle in cinnamon, cardamom, and bay leaves, stirring to combine.

Pour in enough water to cover the chicken and bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until chicken is cooked through, about 20 minutes.

Remove chicken and set aside; add soaked rice to the pot.

Stir in chickpeas and raisins, then place chicken on top of the rice.

Add saffron dissolved in a little water, and season with salt and pepper.

Cover tightly and cook on low heat until rice is tender, about 20-25 minutes.

Fluff rice with a fork and garnish with toasted almonds and chopped parsley before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: