Chicken and Wheat (Qatari Harees)

qatari-harees Qatari Harees is a delectable main dish made with beaten wheat and chicken. There are similar dishes all over the region that go by similar or different names. It is a true comfort food and you should also make the Qatari khubz arabi for an authentic experience. You will use the bread to scoop up the Qatari harees with your hand.

1 lb chicken pieces, boneless, skinless
1 cup harees whole wheat, soaked overnight
2 cups water
½ cup ghee
¼ tsp. ground cinnamon
1 tsp. roasted cumin powder
1 Tbsp. coriander seeds
sea salt
black pepper, freshly ground

Place the chicken, harees and water in a pan and cook on a low fire for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Skim the froth.

Blend the mixture by hand or using a food processor until a smooth paste results, then transfer to a serving bowl.

Melt the ghee and add the cinnamon, cumin and salt and pepper to taste. Pour the mixture on top of the beaten porridge in the bowl.

Garnish with coriander seeds.

Makes 4 servings.

Cook's Notes:

Please note that this recipe can also be made using lamb and would be totally authentic as well. Just use 1 lb of boneless lamb chunks and cook until completely tender.
Also be sure to plan ahead as the wheat needs to soak overnight before you cook it.