Machboos: Understanding Bahrain’s National Dish

Last updated on October 6th, 2023 at 02:34 pm

Machboos, the national dish of Bahrain, is a culinary delight that has been savored for generations. This flavorful rice dish, often accompanied by meat or fish, is a staple in every Bahraini household and holds a special place in the hearts of its people.

The history of Machboos in Bahrain traces back to ancient times. It’s believed that the dish was introduced by traders from India and Persia who brought with them spices and cooking techniques. Over time, these influences were blended with local ingredients and traditions to create what we now know as Machboos.

Our team at Remitly created this guide as part of our series that celebrates the traditional foods of our global customers.

What Does Machboos Mean?

The term “Machboos” or “Majboos” is derived from an Arabic word that means “pressed,” reflecting how the rice, spices, and meat are cooked together, allowing the flavors to mix and meld.

Ingredients in Traditional Machboos

The beauty of Machboos lies in its simplicity yet depth of flavor. The main ingredients include basmati rice, meat (usually chicken or lamb), onions, tomatoes, garlic, and an array of spices such as turmeric, black lime (loomi), coriander seeds, cinnamon sticks and cardamom pods.

A key ingredient that sets this dish apart is loomi – dried black limes that add a unique tangy flavor to the mix. Another important component is Baharat spice blend which varies from family to family but typically includes black pepper, coriander seeds and cumin among others.

Variations across Bahrain

While there’s a basic recipe for Machboos, variations abound across Bahrain. Some families prefer using fish instead of meat, while others add vegetables like bell peppers or potatoes to their version of the dish.

The choice of spices can also vary from one household to another. Some might use more turmeric for a vibrant yellow color, while others might favor cardamom for its aromatic sweetness. Despite these differences, all versions share a common thread – they’re deeply flavorful and comforting.

How is Machboos Served?

Machboos is typically served family-style in large platters. It’s often accompanied by salads or yogurt-based side dishes, which provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty main course.

In many households, eating Machboos is a communal experience where everyone gathers around the table to enjoy this beloved dish together. It’s not just about nourishment but also about bonding over shared food traditions.

Recipe for Traditional Bahraini Machboos

Machboos is a dish that’s as enjoyable to prepare as it is to eat. Here’s a simple recipe you can follow to make your own version of this Bahraini classic at home.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups basmati rice
• 500g chicken or lamb, cut into pieces
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
• 2 dried black limes (loomi)
• A pinch of cinnamon and cardamom
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for cooking

Instructions:

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak it in warm water for about half an hour then drain.
2. Heat some vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and sauté until they turn golden brown.
3. Add the meat to the pot and brown on all sides.
4. Stir in the tomatoes along with turmeric, coriander seeds, cinnamon, cardamom, salt, and pepper. Cook until the tomatoes break down into a sauce.
5. Add the drained rice to the pot and stir well so that each grain is coated with the sauce.
6. Pour enough water or broth into the pot to cover the rice by about an inch.
7. Pierce each dried lime several times with a knife or fork and add them to the pot.
8. Cover and simmer on low heat until all liquid has been absorbed by rice and it’s fully cooked—usually around 20 minutes.
9. Let it rest for few minutes before fluffing up with a fork prior serving.

The Broader Cuisine of Bahrain

Bahrain’s cuisine is a reflection of its rich history and diverse cultural influences. It’s characterized by fresh ingredients, aromatic spices, and complex flavors.

Seafood in Bahraini Cuisine

Given its location on the Arabian Gulf, seafood plays a significant role in Bahraini cuisine. Fish like hamour (grouper), safi (rabbitfish), and shrimp are often used in dishes. They’re typically grilled or stewed with spices and served with rice.

Traditional Bahraini Dishes

Apart from Machboos, there are several other traditional dishes that are popular in Bahrain. These include Harees (a wheat and meat porridge), Muhammar (sweet rice dish often served with fish), and Ghouzi (roasted lamb stuffed with rice).

Sweets and Desserts

Bahrain is also known for its sweets and desserts. Halwa Showaiter, also known as “Bahraini halwa”, is a jelly-like sweet made from saffron, rosewater, sugar, ghee, and various nuts. Another popular dessert is Ma’amoul – shortbread pastries filled with dates or nuts.

The Role of Spices

Spices play an integral role in Bahraini cuisine. Turmeric, coriander seeds, cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods are commonly used to flavor dishes. Baharat—a spice blend that includes black pepper, coriander seeds and cumin among others—is particularly favored.

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