Somali Rice Pilaf (Bariis Maraq) البيلاف الصومالي

basmati rice

🥗Healthier: brown rice

💰Cheaper: white rice

Brown rice is more nutritious, while white rice is more affordable.

chicken or beef

🥗Healthier: tofu

💰Cheaper: chicken thighs

Tofu is a plant-based protein, while chicken thighs are less expensive.

vegetable oil

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Olive oil is healthier, while canola oil is budget-friendly.

raisins

🥗Healthier: dried cranberries

💰Cheaper: sultanas

Dried cranberries offer a similar sweetness with antioxidants.

In a 6-liter pot, place the onion, garlic, carrots, tomato, and green pepper. Add parsley, cilantro, and chicken bones if using. Add cold water. Add spices and seasoning salt. Cover and simmer for 3 hours. Strain the stock.

Saute the onion in the oil until soft. Add the garlic and stir well. Add the cinnamon sticks, xawaash seasoning mix, ground cardamom, and cloves. Stir well after each addition.

Add the stock. Add the vegetable seasoning salt. Stir. Add the soaked rice. Stir well and bring to a boil. Cover and cook on low heat for 10 minutes.

After 10 minutes, stir well, then cover and cook for another 10 minutes. Add food coloring. Cover and cook on very low heat for 5 minutes.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary