Jareesh Juzan

Introduction to Jareesh Juzan

Jareesh Juzan is a traditional Middle Eastern dish that has been cherished for centuries. Originating from the Arabian Peninsula, particularly in Saudi Arabia, this delightful dish embodies the rich history and culture of the region. Jareesh is a type of crushed wheat, similar to bulgur, which is the primary ingredient in this recipe. The dish is often prepared during special occasions and family gatherings, making it a beloved comfort food that brings people together.

Ingredients

• Jareesh - 2 cups
• Chicken - 1 whole, cut into pieces
• Onion - 1 large, finely chopped
• Yogurt - 2 cups
• Butter - 4 tablespoons
• Cumin - 1 teaspoon
• Black Pepper - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - to taste
• Water - 5 cups
• Cinnamon - 1 stick
• Bay Leaves - 2 leaves
• Cardamom - 3 pods

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

Begin by thoroughly washing the chicken pieces under cold water. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. In a large cooking pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until it becomes golden and translucent.

Step 2: Cooking the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the pot, season with cumin, black pepper, and salt. Sear the chicken until it turns a light brown color on all sides. Pour in 5 cups of water, ensuring that the chicken is fully submerged. Add the cinnamon stick, bay leaves, and cardamom pods to the pot. Cover and let it simmer for about 45 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked. Check the cooking timer regularly.

Step 3: Preparing the Jareesh

While the chicken is cooking, rinse the jareesh under cold running water until the water runs clear. This step is crucial to remove any excess starch and small debris from the grains.

Step 4: Cooking the Jareesh

Remove the cooked chicken pieces from the pot and set aside. Strain the broth to remove the spices and return the liquid to the pot. Add the rinsed jareesh to the broth and allow it to cook on a low heat for about 30-40 minutes, or until the grains are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and check your cooking timer.

Step 5: Finalizing the Dish

Add the cooked chicken pieces back into the pot, stirring gently to incorporate them with the jareesh. Introduce 2 cups of yogurt into the mix, stirring well to ensure a creamy consistency. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and drizzle it over the top for added richness. Adjust the salt to taste and let the mixture simmer for an additional 10 minutes.

How to Enjoy Jareesh Juzan

Jareesh Juzan is best enjoyed warm, as a hearty main course. Serve it in a large communal dish and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or coriander for a touch of color and freshness. Traditionally, this dish is eaten with a side salad or pickles to balance its rich flavors. For an authentic experience, consider serving it alongside soft, flatbread.

Whether for a special occasion or a simple family dinner, Jareesh Juzan is a comforting dish that promises to satisfy and bring warmth to the table.