Authentic Qatif Recipe: A Taste of Saudi Arabia

Ingredients

  • 1 cup of basmati rice
  • 2 cups of water
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 medium tomatoes, diced
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
  • 2 cups of chicken broth
  • 1 cup of cooked chicken, diced or shredded
  • 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice

Steps and instructions

  1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain.
  2. In a medium pot, add the rinsed rice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil.
  3. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. Set aside.
  4. While the rice is cooking, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  5. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until it starts to soften and become translucent.
  6. Add the minced garlic, diced green bell pepper, and diced red bell pepper to the skillet. Continue to sauté until the vegetables are tender.
  7. Add the diced tomatoes, ground cumin, turmeric, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes.
  8. Add the chicken broth to the skillet and bring to a boil.
  9. Once boiling, add the cooked chicken to the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 10-15 minutes.
  10. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork, then add it to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
  11. Add the chopped cilantro, chopped parsley, and lemon juice to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
  12. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until everything is heated through.
  13. Remove from heat and serve warm.

Tools for making

  • Medium pot - for cooking the rice
  • Large skillet - for sautéing the vegetables and combining the ingredients
  • Fork - for fluffing the cooked rice
  • Knife - for chopping the onion, garlic, bell peppers, and tomatoes
  • Cutting board - to provide a surface for chopping the vegetables
  • Measuring cup - for accurate measurement of ingredients
  • Measuring spoons - for precise measurement of spices
  • Wooden spoon - for stirring and combining the ingredients in the skillet
  • Lemon juicer - to extract juice from the fresh lemon

Recipe variations

  • Use brown or jasmine rice instead of basmati rice.
  • Replace the chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
  • Add cooked shrimp or diced beef for a seafood or meat option.
  • Include other vegetables such as carrots, peas, or corn.
  • Experiment with different spices like curry powder, garam masala, or coriander.
  • Add a squeeze of lime or sprinkle of grated lemon zest for a citrusy twist.
  • Top with toasted almonds or cashews for added crunch.
  • For a creamy version, stir in a dollop of yogurt or coconut milk.
  • Serve with a side of cucumber raita or mango chutney for extra flavor.
  • Replace the vegetable oil with ghee or butter for a richer taste.

Recipe overview

Welcome to our recipe for Qatif, a flavorful and hearty dish that's a staple in many Middle Eastern households. This recipe combines the aromatic basmati rice with a medley of vegetables, savory spices, and tender chicken, then finishes off with a dash of fresh herbs and lemon juice for a dish that's bursting with flavor. It's a one-skillet wonder that's perfect for a midweek dinner, but impressive enough for guests. This dish is not only nourishing but also incredibly satisfying. If you love exploring global cuisines, this Qatif recipe is an essential one to add to your repertoire. Get ready for a mouthwatering culinary adventure!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of rice?
    Yes, you can use any type of rice you prefer, but keep in mind that the cooking time and water ratio may vary.
  2. Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
    Absolutely! You can use diced beef, shrimp, or tofu as a substitute for chicken.
  3. Is this recipe spicy?
    The recipe includes cayenne pepper, which adds a bit of heat. If you prefer less spiciness, you can reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether.
  4. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
    Yes, you can make it vegetarian by substituting vegetable broth for chicken broth and omitting the chicken. You can also add additional vegetables or tofu for protein.
  5. Can I make this recipe in advance?
    Yes, you can prepare the rice and the sauce components in advance. However, it is best to combine them and cook shortly before serving for the best texture and flavor.
  6. Can I freeze the leftovers?
    Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large pot - for cooking the rice
  • Medium skillet - for sautéing the vegetables and cooking the chicken
  • Spatula - for stirring and flipping the ingredients in the skillet
  • Fork - for fluffing the cooked rice
  • Knife - for chopping the onion, garlic, bell peppers, and tomatoes
  • Cutting board - for safely cutting the vegetables
  • Measuring cups - for accurately measuring the rice, water, and chicken broth
  • Measuring spoons - for measuring the salt, spices, and lemon juice
  • Lemon squeezer - for extracting fresh lemon juice
  • Chopping board - for safely chopping the fresh cilantro and parsley

Origin stories

Qatif, a vibrant city in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia, has long been a melting pot of cultures due to its location as a coastal trading port. The cuisine here is reflective of this cultural mix, taking inspiration from across the Arabian Peninsula and the wider Middle East. The Qatif dish we're preparing today embodies this blend of cultures, with classic Middle Eastern spices mixed with ingredients commonly found in this region. It's a beloved comfort food in many households, often cooked up when family and friends gather, signifying togetherness and shared heritage. So each time you prepare this dish, remember, you're not just cooking, but keeping a rich tradition alive.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.