Harees Homage

This dish is perfect for those who enjoy hearty, savory meals. It's especially suitable for meat lovers and anyone who appreciates traditional Arabian cuisine. While not vegan or vegetarian, Harees offers a deep culinary experience ideal for adventurous eaters looking to explore authentic flavors.

Harees has a unique flavor profile that is savory and mildly earthy, thanks to the wheat and meat combination. The texture is creamy and smooth, offering a hearty and comforting experience, making it ideal for warm gatherings or festive occasions.

Harees is often paired with warm, freshly-baked pita bread and can be complemented by a refreshing side salad featuring cucumbers and tomatoes. Additionally, a side of pickled vegetables can offer a delightful contrast to the creaminess of the dish, enhancing the overall dining experience.

1. Wheat: The main ingredient that provides the base for the dish, creating its characteristic creamy texture when cooked.
2. Meat: Typically chicken or lamb, which adds richness and depth of flavor to the porridge.
3. Salt: Essential for seasoning, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
4. Water: Used to cook the wheat and meat, helping meld the flavors together as they simmer over time.

To prepare Harees, wheat grains are soaked beforehand and then cooked with tender meat in a large pot. The mixture simmers slowly, often for several hours, allowing the grains to break down and absorb the meat's flavors. The dish is stirred frequently to achieve a smooth, porridge-like consistency, and is seasoned lightly with salt to enhance its natural flavors.

This unique food challenge invites you to experience Harees, a dish that embodies the spirit of Arabian heritage and communal dining. Set in the vibrant city of Dammam during Ramadan, you get to savor a meal that transcends generations, turining a simple mix of wheat and meat into a luxurious experience. Joining this challenge not only lets you indulge your taste buds but also allows you to participate in cultural traditions that celebrate togetherness and generosity. Embrace the essence of Saudi culture while enjoying this hearty dish, making each spoonful a connection to the rich history behind it.

Harees from the Gulf Region

In Gulf countries like Qatar and the UAE, Harees is often seasoned with additional spices like cardamom or cinnamon, giving it a unique aromatic profile compared to the more straightforward versions found in Saudi Arabia.

Turkish Aşure

A similar dish called Aşure exists in Turkey, which is made with wheat and various nuts and fruits, adding a sweet element to the dish unlike traditional Harees. Aşure is often served as a dessert and is part of a special commemoration in Turkish culture.

In modern-day Saudi Arabia, Harees is primarily associated with Ramadan, where families come together to break their fast with this comforting dish. It is often served in large communal bowls, symbolizing hospitality and togetherness. During special occasions, locals might add variations by incorporating spices or garnishes, celebrating their individual family traditions while maintaining the essence of this cherished dish.

Harees has roots that stretch back to ancient Arabia, where it was enjoyed by nomadic tribes and eventually became a popular dish across the Middle East. Historically, it was considered a celebratory meal, often served during Ramadan and festive occasions such as weddings and Eid celebrations. Traditionally made from whole grains, the dish evolved as it was adapted by various cultures, leading to variations across the Gulf region. Harees is often mentioned in historical texts, illustrating its significance and long-standing place in Arab culinary heritage.

A Nourishing Tradition

Harees is more than a meal; it has been a traditional sustenance during fasting periods, offering nourishment and energy to the body after a long day of fasting. Its easy digestibility makes it ideal for post-iftar meals.

Varied in Preparation

Across the Middle East, Harees can be prepared in different styles, with variations including the use of spices, or different types of meat such as chicken or beef, which showcases the adaptiveness of this dish across cultures.

Part of a Festive Table

During Ramadan and Eid, Harees is often found on tables across homes, symbolizing generosity and abundance, a dish that brings families and communities together in celebration.