How to cook traditional Qatari dishes

Curious about cooking traditional Qatari dishes? Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, diving into Qatar’s rich culinary heritage can be both exciting and rewarding. Traditional Qatari cuisine features a tantalizing mix of flavors and ingredients that reflect the country’s cultural diversity and history. In this guide, we’ll explore how to cook some of the most beloved Qatari dishes, offering you tips, recipes, and insights to make your culinary adventure a success.

1. Machboos (Spiced Rice with Meat)

What is Machboos?
Machboos is a flavorful rice dish spiced with a blend of aromatic spices, often served with chicken, lamb, or beef. It’s a staple in Qatari cuisine, celebrated for its rich taste and hearty ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups basmati rice
• 500g chicken, cut into pieces
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned. Remove the chicken and set aside.
2. Cook the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until golden brown. Add the tomatoes, tomato paste, and spices. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and the mixture is fragrant.
3. Simmer the Dish: Return the chicken to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the chicken is tender.
4. Cook the Rice: Rinse the basmati rice and add it to the pot. Stir well, cover, and simmer on low heat for 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the flavors.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Tips: To enhance the flavor, add raisins or toasted almonds on top before serving.

2. Harees (Wheat and Meat Porridge)

What is Harees?
Harees is a traditional dish made from wheat and meat, slow-cooked to create a creamy, porridge-like texture. It’s often enjoyed during Ramadan and other special occasions.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup wheat (soaked overnight)
• 500g lamb or chicken, cut into pieces
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Water

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meat: Heat the oil in a large pot. Add the meat and cook until browned. Remove the meat and set aside.
2. Cook the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until golden brown.
3. Combine Ingredients: Add the soaked wheat, cooked meat, and spices to the pot. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients.
4. Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. The wheat should break down and become creamy.
5. Serve: Adjust the seasoning and serve hot.

Tips: For a richer flavor, you can add a bit of ghee (clarified butter) before serving.

3. Saloona (Vegetable Stew)

What is Saloona?
Saloona is a hearty vegetable stew, often made with a variety of seasonal vegetables and spices. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, bell peppers, etc.), chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Aromatics: Heat the oil in a large pot. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until soft.
2. Add Spices and Tomatoes: Stir in the tomato paste and spices. Cook until fragrant.
3. Add Vegetables and Broth: Add the chopped vegetables and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Serve: Adjust the seasoning and serve hot with rice or bread.

Tips: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added flavor.

4. Qatari Knafeh (Sweet Pastry)

What is Knafeh?
Knafeh is a sweet pastry made with shredded phyllo dough and cheese, soaked in a fragrant syrup. It’s a popular dessert in Qatar and the wider Middle East.

Ingredients:

• 500g shredded phyllo dough
• 250g mozzarella or akkawi cheese, shredded
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon rose water (optional)
• 1/4 cup melted butter

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Syrup: Combine sugar, water, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in rose water if using.
2. Assemble the Knafeh: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush a baking dish with melted butter. Layer half of the shredded phyllo dough in the dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the dough, then top with the remaining phyllo dough. Brush the top with more melted butter.
3. Bake: Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
4. Add Syrup: Once baked, pour the syrup over the hot knafeh and let it soak for 10 minutes before serving.

Tips: Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Cooking traditional Qatari dishes at home is a wonderful way to experience and share Qatar’s rich culinary heritage. From the hearty Machboos to the sweet Knafeh, these recipes offer a taste of Qatari culture and tradition. By following the steps and tips provided, you’ll be well on your way to creating delicious and authentic Qatari meals. Enjoy your cooking journey and the delightful flavors of Qatar!