Bariis Maraq

About Bariis Maraq

Bariis Maraq is a flavorful dish rooted in Somali cuisine, offering a delightful blend of spices and aromatic ingredients. This traditional dish showcases the rich culinary heritage of Somalia, often enjoyed during special gatherings and family occasions. A staple in Somali households, Bariis Maraq combines rice and a richly seasoned stew, capturing the essence of Somali flavors.

Ingredients

• Rice - 2 cups
• Chicken or Beef - 1 lb, cut into pieces
• Onion - 1 large, finely chopped
• Tomato - 2, diced
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Ginger - 1 inch, grated
• Carrot - 1, sliced
• Potato - 1, cubed
• Ground Coriander - 1 teaspoon
• Ground Cumin - 1 teaspoon
• Cinnamon stick - 1
• Cardamom pods - 3
• Cloves - 3
• Salt - to taste
• Black Pepper - to taste
• Oil - 3 tablespoons
• Water - 4 cups
• Bay Leaf - 1

Preparation

1. Rinse the rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. Soak in water for about 20 minutes, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until golden brown.
3. Add garlic and ginger to the pot, stirring for a minute until fragrant.
4. Add chicken or beef and cook until it is browned on all sides.
5. Stir in the tomatoes, coriander, cumin, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, salt, and black pepper.
6. Add carrot and potato to the pot, and continue to cook for another 5 minutes.
7. Pour in water and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, add the bay leaf, and cover the pot. Let the stew simmer for about 45 minutes or until the meat is tender.
8. Remove the bay leaf from the pot and adjust seasoning to taste.
9. In a separate pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the soaked rice and cook until tender, around 15-20 minutes. Drain and fluff the rice with a fork.

How to Enjoy Bariis Maraq

To serve, place the fluffy rice on a large serving platter and top with the hearty Maraq stew. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired. Perfectly accompanied by a simple side salad, this dish is best enjoyed warm and shared with loved ones. To ensure the timing is just right, consider using a cooking timer to keep track of the cooking process.