Authentic Saudi Arabian Bukhari Rice Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cups Basmati rice
  • 500 grams lamb or chicken
  • 4 tablespoons cooking oil
  • 2 large onions, finely chopped
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 tablespoon ground coriander
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 4 cups water or stock
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, apricots, dates)
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
  • 1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted
  • 1 bunch fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt to taste

Steps and instructions

  1. Soak the basmati rice in water for 20-30 minutes, then drain and set aside.
  2. Heat the cooking oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  3. Add the onions to the pot and sauté until they are soft and golden.
  4. Add the minced garlic to the pot and continue to sauté for another 2-3 minutes.
  5. Add the lamb or chicken pieces to the pot. Cook until all sides are browned.
  6. Add the turmeric, coriander, cumin, black pepper, cinnamon, and cardamom to the pot. Stir well to coat the meat and onions in the spices.
  7. Add the water or stock to the pot and bring to a boil.
  8. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 30 minutes.
  9. Add the soaked and drained rice to the pot. Stir well to combine with the other ingredients.
  10. Re-cover the pot and continue to simmer for another 20-30 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  11. Stir in the lemon juice, dried fruits, toasted pine nuts, and toasted almonds. Season with salt to taste.
  12. Finally, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top of the dish just before serving.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Vegetarian Variation: Replace the lamb or chicken with a combination of vegetables such as carrots, peas, cauliflower, and bell peppers.
  • Seafood Variation: Substitute the meat with shrimp, fish, or a combination of seafood.
  • Spicy Variation: Add chopped green chilies or red chili powder to the spice mix for an extra kick of heat.
  • Nut-Free Variation: Omit the pine nuts and almonds if you have nut allergies or prefer a nut-free version.
  • Raisins and Spice Variation: Increase the amount of dried fruits and add additional spices like cloves, nutmeg, or allspice for a more flavorful and fragrant rice dish.
  • Herb Variation: Experiment with different herbs such as cilantro, mint, or dill to add a fresh and aromatic twist to the recipe.
  • Vegan Variation: Replace the meat with plant-based protein alternatives like tofu or seitan and use vegetable stock instead of water or meat-based stock.
  • Whole Grain Variation: Substitute the basmati rice with other whole grains like quinoa, bulgur, or brown rice for a healthier and nuttier taste.

Recipe overview

Bukhari is a spiced Middle Eastern rice dish that is loaded with flavorful spices, tender pieces of meat, and a medley of dried fruits and nuts. This hearty and aromatic dish is an absolute feast for the senses, combining savory, sweet, and spice elements in a truly unique way. The recipe mainly involves simmering the ingredients together in one pot, making it a great option for a simple yet satisfying meal. Expect a vibrant dish that is as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat, with the warm, earthy spices beautifully complementing the sweetness of the dried fruits and the crunch of the nuts. Prepare to immerse yourself in the rich and diverse flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine with this delightful Bukhari recipe.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe?
    Yes, you can use a different type of rice, but the cooking times may vary. Basmati rice is recommended for its aromatic flavor and fluffy texture.
  2. Can I substitute the lamb or chicken with another type of meat?
    Yes, you can use beef, veal, or even seafood like shrimp or fish as a substitute. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  3. Can I use fresh fruits instead of dried fruits?
    While the recipe calls for dried fruits, you can use fresh fruits if you prefer. However, keep in mind that the texture and taste of the dish may differ.
  4. Can I omit the nuts from the recipe?
    Yes, if you have allergies or simply don't enjoy nuts, you can omit them. The recipe will still be delicious without them.
  5. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
    Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the meat and using vegetable broth instead of stock. You can also add vegetables like carrots, peas, and bell peppers for added flavor.
  6. Can I adjust the spices to suit my taste?
    Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference. Add more or less of any spice to achieve the desired flavor.
  7. Can I make this recipe in advance?
    Yes, you can make the dish in advance and reheat it when needed. Just make sure to store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  8. What can I serve with Bukhari?
    Bukhari is often served with yogurt, cucumber salad, or a side of pickles. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a hearty and flavorful main course.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large pot or Dutch oven - A large pot or Dutch oven is needed to cook the Bukhari dish.
  • Spatula - A spatula is useful for stirring and mixing the ingredients while cooking.
  • Knife - A knife is required to chop the onions and garlic.
  • Cutting board - A cutting board provides a sturdy surface for chopping the onions and garlic.
  • Measuring cups - Measuring cups are necessary to accurately measure the rice and water quantities.
  • Measuring spoons - Measuring spoons are needed to measure the spices accurately.
  • Lemon squeezer - A lemon squeezer can be used to easily extract juice from the lemon.
  • Toaster or oven - A toaster or oven is used to toast the pine nuts and slivered almonds.
  • Serving platter or dish - A serving platter or dish is required to present the Bukhari dish.
  • Fork or serving spoon - A fork or serving spoon is used to serve the Bukhari dish.

Origin stories

Bukhari, named after Imam Bukhari, a well-known Islamic scholar, is a rice dish from Saudi Arabia that has become popular across the Middle East and beyond. Legend has it that Imam Bukhari was so taken with this dish during his travels that he included it in his canonical Hadiths, collections of sayings attributed to the Prophet Muhammad. Consequently, Bukhari rice became known as a dish that "delighted the scholar". The dish is often served at celebrations and gatherings, reflecting its status as a food that brings people together. Its rich combination of flavors, with aromatic spices, dried fruits, and succulent meat, mirrors the diverse cultural influences that have shaped the Arabian peninsula over centuries.

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.