Authentic Saudi Arabian Saleeg Recipe

Ingredients

2 cups of short grain rice
1/2 kilogram of chicken pieces (you can also use meat)
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
4 cloves of garlic, minced
2 liters of chicken or meat broth
1 cup of milk
1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
1 teaspoon of ground cardamom
1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
Salt to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Steps and instructions

Start by washing the rice under cold running water until the water comes out clear. Soak it in water for about 20 minutes then drain.
In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are brown on all sides. Remove the chicken pieces and set them aside.
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté them until they become soft and golden brown.
Return the chicken pieces to the pot, add the chicken or meat broth, cardamom, cinnamon, black pepper, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1 hour until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
After the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and set it aside. Add the soaked and drained rice to the pot and stir well. Cover the pot again and let it cook on low heat for about 30 minutes until the rice is cooked and has absorbed most of the broth.
Add the milk to the pot and stir well. Cover the pot and let it simmer for another 10 minutes.
While the rice is cooking, shred the cooked chicken into small pieces.
Add the shredded chicken back to the pot and stir well. Let it cook for another 5 minutes until everything is well combined.
Taste the Saleeg and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a more soupy consistency, you can add more broth or milk.
To serve, ladle the Saleeg into serving bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

Tools for making

Large pot - A pot large enough to cook the rice and chicken together.
Knife - A sharp knife to chop the onion and garlic.
Cutting board - A cutting board to chop the onion and garlic.
Measuring cups - Measuring cups to accurately measure the rice and milk.
Measuring spoons - Measuring spoons to measure the spices.
Wooden spoon - A wooden spoon for stirring the ingredients in the pot.
Ladle - A ladle for serving the Saleeg into bowls.

Recipe variations

Substitute the chicken with beef or lamb to make a meatier version of Saleeg.
Add vegetables such as carrots, peas, or bell peppers during the cooking process for added flavor and texture.
Include spices like turmeric, cumin, or paprika to give the Saleeg a different flavor profile.
For a vegetarian or vegan option, replace the meat with mushrooms, tofu, or plant-based protein alternatives.
Add nuts like almonds or pine nuts for a crunchy texture.
Try using different types of rice such as basmati or jasmine for a unique twist.
Include raisins or dried fruits for a touch of sweetness.
Experiment with different herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, or saffron to enhance the aroma and taste.
Consider using coconut milk instead of regular milk for a creamy and tropical flavor.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dollop of yogurt on top for a tangy kick.

Recipe overview

Saleeg is a traditional Saudi Arabian dish that is comforting, hearty, and delicious. It is a creamy, rice-based dish cooked with chicken or meat and delicately flavored with spices like cardamom and cinnamon. Saleeg is a versatile meal that can be enjoyed at any time of the day, and it is often served as a main dish for lunch or dinner. This recipe takes you through the step-by-step process of making Saleeg at home. The recipe begins with soaking and draining the rice, followed by browning the chicken and sautéing the onions and garlic. The dish is then simmered until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the broth, followed by the addition of milk for a creamier texture. Finally, shredded chicken is added back into the pot and everything is well combined. The result is a creamy, flavorful and satisfying dish that is sure to impress. This recipe serves around 4-6 people and takes approximately 2 hours to prepare and cook. Saleeg is typically garnished with fresh parsley and can be served as is or with a side salad or yogurt. This dish is a lovely introduction to Saudi cuisine and a must-try for those who love trying new recipes. Enjoy!

Common questions

Can I use meat instead of chicken? Yes, you can use meat instead of chicken in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat is tender and fully cooked.
Can I use long grain rice? It is recommended to use short grain rice for Saleeg as it gives the dish a creamy texture. However, you can use long grain rice if you don't have short grain rice available.
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken or meat broth? Yes, you can use vegetable broth as a substitute for chicken or meat broth if you prefer a vegetarian version of Saleeg.
Can I add other spices or herbs? While the traditional Saleeg recipe uses cardamom and cinnamon, you can add other spices or herbs according to your taste preferences. Just be mindful of the overall flavor balance.
Can I make Saleeg ahead of time? Yes, you can make Saleeg ahead of time and reheat it when serving. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You may need to add a little extra broth or milk when reheating to adjust the consistency.
What can I serve with Saleeg? Saleeg is often served with a side of roasted or grilled chicken or meat. Additionally, you can serve it with a fresh salad or some pickles for a balanced meal.

Serving dishes and utensils

Large pot - A large pot is needed to cook the Saleeg and simmer the ingredients.
Wooden spoon - A wooden spoon is useful for stirring the rice and chicken mixture while it cooks.
Ladle - A ladle is essential for serving the Saleeg into bowls.
Knife - A knife is needed to chop the onion and garlic, as well as to shred the cooked chicken.
Cutting board - A cutting board provides a stable surface for chopping ingredients.
Measuring cups - Measuring cups help ensure accurate measurements of rice, milk, and broth.
Measuring spoons - Measuring spoons are needed to measure spices and seasonings.
Serving bowls - Serving bowls are required for serving the finished Saleeg.
Fresh parsley - Fresh parsley can be used as a garnish for the Saleeg.

Origin stories

Saleeg is a traditional Saudi Arabian dish that originated from the Hejaz region in the western part of the country. It's a creamy, hearty dish made with rice, chicken or meat, and milk, often served as a main course. Saleeg is particularly popular during the colder months and is considered a comfort food. What makes it unique is its use of milk, which gives it a creamy consistency, unlike other Middle Eastern rice dishes that typically use water or broth as the cooking liquid. It's said to have been a favorite among Bedouin tribes due to its simplicity and the readily available ingredients. The unique combination of spices used in Saleeg, such as cardamom and cinnamon, shows the influence of the historical spice trade that passed through the region. Today, Saleeg remains a staple dish in Saudi households and is often served at large gatherings, symbolizing hospitality and generosity.

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.