Muhammar is a sweet and fragrant Bahraini rice dish, traditionally served with grilled or fried fish. This delicacy is infused with rich flavors of dates, cardamom, and saffron, making it a perfect balance of sweetness and aromatic spices. Enjoy this authentic Muhammar recipe to bring a taste of Bahrain to your home!

Ingredients:

For the Rice:

2 cups (0.45 kg) basmati rice

4 cups (1 liter) water

½ teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons butter or ghee

For the Sweet Syrup:

½ cup (0.11 kg) dates, pitted and chopped

¼ cup (60 ml) date molasses or honey

1 teaspoon cardamom powder

½ teaspoon cinnamon powder

1 pinch saffron, soaked in 2 tablespoons warm water

2 tablespoons rose water

For Garnishing:

¼ cup (0.06 kg) toasted almonds or pistachios

¼ cup (0.06 kg) raisins

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Rice Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil, add salt, and stir in the rice. Cook until the rice is about 80% done (it should still have a slight bite). Drain excess water and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Syrup In a small saucepan, heat the date molasses or honey over low heat. Add the chopped dates, cardamom, cinnamon, and saffron-infused water. Stir well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Add rose water and mix thoroughly.

Step 3: Combine and Simmer In a large pot, melt butter or ghee over medium heat. Add the semi-cooked rice and pour the sweet syrup over it. Gently mix, ensuring the rice is evenly coated with the syrup. Cover the pot and let the rice steam on low heat for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve Fluff the rice with a fork and sprinkle toasted almonds, pistachios, and raisins on top. Serve warm with grilled fish or as a standalone dish.

Serving: This recipe makes about 4 servings, perfect for a sweet yet savory side dish.

Muhammar is a traditional Bahraini dish that beautifully blends sweetness with warm spices. Whether paired with seafood or enjoyed on its own, this deliciously aromatic rice is a must-try for lovers of Middle Eastern cuisine.