Culinary Gems of Abha, Aseer: Traditional Areeka & Mashgothah Recipe Unveiled in Saudi Arabia

lamb

🥗Healthier: chicken

💰Cheaper: beef

Chicken is lower in fat and beef is often less expensive.

vegetable oil

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Olive oil is healthier while canola oil is a budget-friendly alternative.

chickpeas

🥗Healthier: lentils

💰Cheaper: canned beans

Lentils are nutritious and canned beans are often less expensive.

bay leaves

💰Cheaper: dried oregano

Dried oregano can provide a similar herbal flavor.

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

Sauté chopped onions and garlic until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add lamb pieces and brown on all sides, about 10 minutes.

Stir in chopped tomatoes and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Add spices, salt, and pepper, mixing well to coat the meat.

Pour in water to cover the meat and bring to a boil.

Reduce heat and simmer until lamb is tender, about 1-1.5 hours.

Add soaked rice and chickpeas to the pot, stirring gently.

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

Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 10 minutes.

Fluff rice with a fork before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary