National Dish United Arab Emirates: Harees (Recipe)
In this article
Discover Harees, the beloved national dish of the United Arab Emirates! This gently spiced blend of wheat berries and tender meat cooks down into a smooth, porridge-like comfort food with a wonderfully creamy texture. Traditionally prepared in large quantities during festive gatherings, it is a dish that speaks of Emirati hospitality and togetherness. Bring the warm flavours of the Gulf straight to your own kitchen.
About Harees
Harees is a traditional dish from the United Arab Emirates and forms part of the cultural identity of this fascinating country. Made from wheat berries and tender meat, it cooks down into a texture that is at once creamy and hearty. It is especially popular during festive occasions, when it is often prepared in large batches to reflect the famous hospitality of the Emirates. The result is an unforgettable experience of flavour and texture that makes you feel part of the region’s unique culture.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 1 cup wheat berries
- 200 g chicken or lamb
- 1 litre water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- Butter or ghee, to serve
- Optional: chopped almonds or pistachios, to top
Shopping for the ingredients
When shopping for harees, take care to choose high-quality wheat berries, as they form the very base of the dish. Many supermarkets and specialist Middle Eastern grocers also stock freshly seasoned meat, which deepens the flavour. Spices such as cinnamon are optional, but they lend the dish an extra aromatic note. Do not forget to pick up some fresh herbs or nuts for garnish, which lift both the taste and the look of the finished dish.
Preparing the dish
Preparing harees does not take a great deal of active time, though a few steps are needed to coax out the flavours properly. Begin by soaking the wheat berries for several hours, ideally overnight. This makes the cooking process easier and helps the grains soften as they simmer. If you are using meat, you can also marinate it in advance to intensify the flavour and save time during cooking.
Step-by-step instructions
- Tip the soaked wheat berries into a large pan and bring to the boil with the water.
- Add the meat and season with salt.
- Simmer over low heat for roughly 1 to 2 hours, until both the meat and the grains are soft.
- Stir with a wooden spoon and mash the mixture to achieve that signature creamy consistency.
- Optional: add cinnamon and stir through well.
- Serve the harees hot, topped with butter or ghee and chopped nuts.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Harees is naturally lactose-free, and it is easy to keep that way as long as you avoid any additives that contain lactose. Wheat, however, does contain gluten, so anyone with an intolerance will need an alternative. Many supermarkets stock gluten-free grains such as quinoa or millet, which you can use in place of the wheat. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as these grains can take longer or shorter to soften.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
For a vegan or vegetarian version of harees, simply replace the meat with plant-based proteins such as chickpeas or lentils. These provide plenty of bite and nourishment. Use vegetable stock instead of water for an extra layer of flavour, and reach for a variety of spices and herbs to keep the dish interesting and satisfying. It adapts beautifully to a meat-free table.
More tips and tricks
An important tip when making harees is to be patient. Let the mixture cook gently and stir it regularly to achieve an even texture. A stick blender can also be helpful for smoothing out the consistency once everything is cooked through. Finally, you can prepare the dish ahead of time, as it keeps well in the fridge and the flavours often come through even better once it has been gently reheated.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to cooking, and harees is easy to tailor to your personal taste. Add whichever spices or aromatics you love most, whether that is a generous pinch of cinnamon or even a few juicy tomatoes for extra flavour. Adjust the ratio of water to wheat to reach the consistency you prefer, be it creamier or with more texture. You can also swap the meat, using turkey or beef, to ring the changes.
Ingredient substitutions
Because this dish is built for flexibility, you can vary many of the ingredients as you please. Instead of chicken or lamb, you might use another protein such as young chicken or even fish for a different flavour note — much like the fish that stars in a Fish Majboos. The wheat base can be replaced with barley or even rice, as in a hearty Machboos. Consider, too, whether to swap traditional ghee for a plant-based oil to make the dish lighter and more inclusive.
Drink pairing ideas
A range of drinks pairs nicely with a hearty dish like harees. A refreshing mint tea or a fruity lemonade works wonderfully to cleanse the palate. Alternatively, a traditional Arabic coffee is a fine choice that complements the flavours of the dish beautifully. For an alcohol-free option, you might also consider hibiscus tea or a rosemary lemonade, both of which offer an intriguing flavour combination.
Serving and presentation ideas
Presentation can lift the whole harees experience. Serve the dish in pretty, traditional bowls and garnish with toasted nuts or fresh herbs. A dusting of cinnamon or a melting spoonful of ghee placed on top can add real depth to its appearance. Make sure the table is laid in a welcoming way, too, to reflect the wonderful hospitality that this dish embodies.
A bit of history
Harees has a long history and is found across many Middle Eastern cultures. It was originally a dish for special occasions, often served at weddings, feasts and holidays. The combination of wheat and meat symbolises not only prosperity but also the tradition of community, as it is so often prepared in large quantities. This tradition is mirrored in the hospitality of the Emirates, where the sharing of food carries great importance and is an expression of esteem. It sits proudly among the classics of Emirati cuisine, alongside dishes such as Emirati Lamb Thareed.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Harees
Harees is not just a dish; it is a piece of the culture and tradition of the United Arab Emirates. The combination of tender wheat berries and flavourful meat makes it a delicious and deeply satisfying meal, perfect for any occasion. Whether for festive celebrations or a cosy meal at home, harees has the power to bring people together. Let this traditional recipe inspire you and bring the taste of the Gulf into your own kitchen.
