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Qatari Warak Enab (Stuffed Grape Leaves)

November 29, 2018 By Darlene at International Cuisine

Qatari warak enab are little bundles of stuffed grape leaves.  These are popular in many places of the world and Qatar is no exception.  I made these little savory bites with sweet lamb and millet.  They are fun to make and perfect to get the kids involved to wrap them up.

A plate full or warak enab stuffed grape leaves on a platter garnished with lemon wedgesThere are so many variations for stuffed grape leaves.  You can make them with just about any grain or rice, whatever types of meat you like and spices.  They also are often made vegetarian like we made for our Armenian meal.  You  can simply use this recipe as a guide and you really can’t go wrong.

You can find grape leaves in a jar at most stores usually in the pickle section or you can pick some up here.  Please note that they need to be thoroughly rinsed before using them.  Additionally, they are wild grape leaves not the type you find at your local grape vineyard. So if you happen to grow your own grapes you would not want to use those leaves.

This Qatari warak enab recipe is completely plant paradox compliant as it is made with grass fed lamb and millet.

If you want to make an authentic dipping sauce just mix together a little fresh minced garlic with a dash of ground cumin and mix with yogurt and serve with the Qatari warak enab.

If you would like to learn more about this little wealthy nation of Qatar be sure to check out “Our Journey to Qatar“.

Craving even more?  Be sure to join the culinary and cultural journey around the world so you don’t miss a thing,  it’s free,  You can also follow me on Instagram, Facebook ,  Pinterest and youtube to follow along our journey.

Please note that this page contains affiliate links in which I will earn a small commission however, it will in no way affect the price you pay. I thank you for your support!

A plate full or warak enab stuffed grape leaves on a platter garnished with lemon wedges
5 from 2 votes
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Qatari Warak Enab

Qatari warak enab are little bundles of sweet lamb meat and millet, spiced perfectly.  They are fun to wrap up too!  Enjoy

Course Appetizer
Cuisine Qatari
Keyword Qatari Warak enab
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings 10
Calories 413 kcal
Author Darlene at International Cuisine

Ingredients

Ingredients

  • 1 jar grape leaves about 60-70 in brine
  • 1 lb ground lamb
  • 2 cups millet or rice
  • 2 tbsp olive oil divided
  • 1 tsp salt divided
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp Allspice seasoning
  • 1/4 tsp cinnamon
  • Juice of 2 large lemons

Instructions

Instructions

    Grape Leaves Preparation

    1. Drain grape vine leaves and soak them in a large bowl of water.
    2. Gently separate and wash the leaves, stack them on a plate and set them aside. You can cover them with a damp cloth so they don't dry out.

    Stuffing Preparation

    1. Cook ground lamb with 1 tbsp olive oil and ½ tsp of salt and drain out the fat
    2. Add millet or rice to the ground lamb along with the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil and ½ tsp of salt, AllSpice seasoning, cinnamon and black pepper, and mix well.
    3. To stuff and roll the grape leaves, lay a grape leaf flat on a cutting board, scoop out a heaping teaspoon of the mixture into the center of the grape leaf, and carefully fold in the sides and roll it like you would when making a wrap.
    4. The trick is to roll it tightly enough so that it doesn't unravel while cooking, but not too tightly since the millet or rice needs room to expand as it cooks.

    Wrapping them up!

    1. Place all the wrapped grape leaves in a tray.
    2. Line the bottom of a large pot with tomatoes and/or potatoes and season with salt/pepper to taste,
    3. Neatly arrange the stuffed and rolled grape leaves in rows, alternating directions, to completely cover the circumference of the pot. Drizzle each layer with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
    4. Place small round plate on top of grape leaves in the pot to hold them down and prevent floating while they are cooking.
    5. Add enough boiling water to completely cover the grape leaves and the plate, then cover the pot and cook on Medium heat for 30 minutes, until most of the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
    6. Add the lemon juice on top of the grape leaves, then cook on low heat for an additional 45 minutes.
    7. Remove from heat and let cool uncovered.
    8. Transfer to a dish, garnish with lemon slices and enjoy warm!
    Nutrition Facts
    Qatari Warak Enab
    Amount Per Serving
    Calories 413 Calories from Fat 171
    % Daily Value*
    Fat 19g29%
    Saturated Fat 7g44%
    Cholesterol 47mg16%
    Sodium 373mg16%
    Potassium 213mg6%
    Carbohydrates 43g14%
    Protein 14g28%
    Vitamin A 40IU1%
    Vitamin C 0.3mg0%
    Calcium 31mg3%
    Iron 1.5mg8%
    * Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

    Filed Under: Appetizer, Plant Paradox Friendly, Qatar, Recipes

    Qatari Harees (Beaten Wheat and Chicken)

    November 29, 2018 By Darlene at International Cuisine

    Qatari Harees is a delectable main dish made with beaten wheat and chicken.  There are similar dishes all over the region that go by similar or different names.  I made one very similar for Oman but it was made with beaten rice instead of wheat.  It is a true comfort food and you should also make the Qatari khubz arabi for an authentic experience.  You will use the bread to scoop up the Qatari harees with your hand.

    a creamy bowl of qatari harees that is drizzled with ghee and coriander seeds.

    As Qatar is one of the wealthiest nations on earth, you can truly get just about any cuisine in the world when visiting the capital city of Doha.  However when I travel, I like to immerse myself in the culture and traditions of the nation.  This Qatari harees is an authentic dish that is beloved and you can get a taste of Qatar without even leaving home. It is often eaten during the holy month of Ramadan.  If you are visiting Qatar the best place to try it is in a souq which is like a mall with all sorts of different stalls of goods and food, unless of course you get invited into a local’s home for a meal.

    Did you know that only 12 percent of the population are Qatari?  The rest are foreigners brought in for work mainly in the oil and gas sectors as well as hospitality.  If you would like to learn more about the tiny nation, be sure to check out “Our Journey to Qatar” .  You will be able to also get more delicious recipes including the khubz arabi (Arabian Bread).  Actually the national dish for Qatar is Machboos ( a spiced rice dish with meat) which I made for Bahrain which would also be a wonderful choice if making a Qatari meal.

    This recipe calls for harees which is a whole wheat, you can find this at your Middle Eastern store or here on Amazon. Also you need to soak the wheat overnight so be sure to plan ahead when you want to make your Qatari harees.

    Craving even more?  Be sure to join the culinary and cultural journey around the world so you don’t miss a thing,  it’s free,  You can also follow me on Instagram, Facebook ,  Pinterest and youtube to follow along our journey.

    Please note that this page contains affiliate links in which I will earn a small commission however, it will in no way affect the price you pay. I thank you for your support!

    a creamy bowl of qatari harees that is drizzled with ghee and coriander seeds.
    5 from 2 votes
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    Qatari Harees (Beaten wheat and chicken)

    Qatari Harees is a lovely dish that is a true comfort food. It is often served during Ramadan in Qatar but is perfect anytime. Be sure to make some Qatari Khubz Arabi (Arabian Bread) to scoop it up with.

    Course Main Dish
    Cuisine Qatari
    Keyword Qatari Harees
    Prep Time 15 minutes
    Cook Time 2 hours
    soaking time 8 hours
    Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
    Servings 4
    Calories 587 kcal
    Author Darlene at International Cuisine

    Ingredients

    Ingredients

    • 1 lb chicken pieces boneless, skinless
    • 1 cup harees whole wheat, soaked overnight
    • 2 cups water
    • 1/2 cup ghee
    • 1/4 tsp cinnamon powder
    • 1 tsp roasted cumin powder
    • 1 Tablespoon coriander seeds
    • salt and pepper to taste

    Instructions

    Instructions

    1. Place the chicken, harees and water in a pan and cook on a low fire for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Skim the froth.
    2. Blend the mixture by hand or using a food processor until a smooth paste results, then transfer to a serving bowl.
    3. Melt the ghee and add the cinnamon, cumin and salt and pepper to taste. Pour the mixture on top of the beaten porridge in the bowl.
    4. Garnish with coriander seeds

    Recipe Notes

    Please note that this recipe can also be made using lamb and would be totally authentic as well.  Just use 1 lb of boneless lamb chunks and cook until completely tender.

    Also be sure to plan ahead as the wheat needs to soak overnight before you cook it.

    Nutrition Facts
    Qatari Harees (Beaten wheat and chicken)
    Amount Per Serving
    Calories 587 Calories from Fat 315
    % Daily Value*
    Fat 35g54%
    Saturated Fat 17g106%
    Cholesterol 115mg38%
    Sodium 61mg3%
    Potassium 170mg5%
    Carbohydrates 49g16%
    Fiber 5g21%
    Sugar 1g1%
    Protein 22g44%
    Vitamin A 110IU2%
    Vitamin C 1.5mg2%
    Calcium 50mg5%
    Iron 3.1mg17%
    * Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

    Filed Under: Main Dish, Qatar, Recipes

    Qatari Khubz Arabi (Arabian Bread)

    November 29, 2018 By Darlene at International Cuisine

    Qatari Khubz arabi is Arabian bread that is popular all over the Middle East and Gulf region. I can just imagine the smell of this pillowy bread wafting through the air in the souks of Qatar.  It is surprisingly easy to make and is absolutely scrumptious with the main dish called harees. It is so exciting to see it puff up in the oven.  You can use this bread for just about anything.  You will simply fall in love with it.

    A pile of freshly baked Arabian bread

    This bread is also used as a utensil in Qatar you break off a piece and use it to scoop up whatever it is your are eating whether it be baba ganoush or machboos.  We used it to scoop up the creamy and delicious main dish we made for Qatar called harees.  Seriously the possibilities are simply endless.  Also because the khubz arabi make a nice pocket similar to a pita, you could use it to also make sandwiches.

    Qatari Khubz Arabi is really not hard to make, you just need to plan for some time for the dough to rise and rest about 1 and 3/4 hours before baking.

    Have you ever eaten with your hands?  It is customary in many countries and is fun to sit on the floor on some cushions and experience it. You would only use your right hand and it would also be customary to have a hand washing ceremony before and after the meal.

    Did you know that Qatar is going to host the FIFA 2022 games?  They are building like crazy to get ready for the big event.  Why not plan a trip to Qatar to see the games. If you can’t make it to the games, why not have a Qatari party and make the whole meal?  Soccer is the worlds most popular sport.  If you would like to learn more about this little country of Qatar, be sure to check out “Our Journey to Qatar“.  There you can learn more about the culture and traditions as well as authentic recipes for their delicious cuisine.

    Craving even more?  Be sure to join the culinary and cultural journey around the world so you don’t miss a thing,  it’s free,  You can also follow me on Instagram, Facebook ,  Pinterest and youtube to follow along our journey.

    Please note that this page contains affiliate links in which I will earn a small commission however, it will in no way affect the price you pay. I thank you for your support!

    A pile of freshly baked Arabian bread
    5 from 1 vote
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    Khubz Arabi (Arabian Bread)

    Khubz Arabi is a scrumptious pillowy soft bread that puffs up to make a pocket when you bake it.

    Course Bread
    Cuisine Qatari
    Keyword Khubz Arabi
    Prep Time 15 minutes
    Cook Time 12 minutes
    rising time 1 hour 45 minutes
    Total Time 27 minutes
    Servings 6
    Calories 251 kcal
    Author Darlene at International Cuisine

    Ingredients

    Ingredients

    • 1 ½ cups warm water
    • 1 package active dry yeast
    • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
    • 3 cups all-purpose flour sifted
    • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

    Instructions

    Instructions

    1. In a large bowl, pour in the warm water and add in the yeast, stir until the yeast is dissolved.
    2. Add in the salt.
    3. Start gradually adding in the flour and oil while kneading, you want to knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.
    4. Put the dough into a large greased bowl and turn dough to grease all sides.
    5. Cover with a dry tea towel and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size about 1 ½ hours.
    6. Preheat oven to 375 degrees
    7. Punch dough gently
    8. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and shape them into smooth balls
    9. Place on a floured work surface and dust tops lightly with flour.
    10. Cover with a dry tea towel and let rest for 15 minutes.
    11. Roll out each ball into a 6-inch diameter circle
    12. Place on greased baking sheets
    13. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the bread puffs. Do not leave unattended while baking.
    14. Enjoy!
    Nutrition Facts
    Khubz Arabi (Arabian Bread)
    Amount Per Serving
    Calories 251 Calories from Fat 27
    % Daily Value*
    Fat 3g5%
    Saturated Fat 2g13%
    Sodium 586mg25%
    Potassium 78mg2%
    Carbohydrates 48g16%
    Fiber 2g8%
    Protein 6g12%
    Calcium 11mg1%
    Iron 2.9mg16%
    * Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

    Filed Under: Bread, Qatar, Recipes, Vegetarian

    Esh Asaraya (Sweet Bread with Cream)

    November 29, 2018 By Darlene at International Cuisine

    Esh Asaraya is a popular dessert in Qatar and the whole region.  It is a sweet, creamy and delicious dessert.  Esh asaraya is made with sweet pieces of bread that is then smothered in cream, and then is topped with pistachio nuts which adds a nice crunch to each luscious bite.

    A sweet creamy dessert topped with pistachio nuts called esh asaraya

    What I love most about this esh asaraya recipe aside from the way it tastes is how quick and easy it is to make.  You can also make it ahead of time which is a real plus when making your Qatari meal.   Why not serve your Esh Asaraya alongside karak  tea which is a staple in Qatar.

    Did you know that Qatar is one of the richest countries in all of the world.  It is loaded with oil and gas and with its small population of only around 2.5 million people it has a massive GDP.  If you would like to learn more about this little wealthy nation be sure to check out “Our Journey to Qatar” to learn more.  There you can also find more authentic Qatari recipes that you are sure to love.

    Dates are also extremely popular in Qatar. They don’t grow much there in the desert region, but dates grow beautifully and is one of their exports.  Another dessert that is popular in Qatar is simply sweetened buttered dates called Al Rangina.  To make them all you do is use about 1/4 stick of butter and make a little rue with about 4 tablespoons of flour.  Let the butter simmer for a bit and stir.  Add in a cinnamon stick and mix it with the butter for a few minutes and simply arrange your dates on a plate and pour over the butter sauce.  Sprinkle the dates with some powdered sugar and just like tha,t you can add a second dessert alongside the Esh asaraya to your Qatari dessert table.

    Craving even more?  Be sure to join the culinary and cultural journey around the world so you don’t miss a thing,  it’s free,  You can also follow me on Instagram, Facebook ,  Pinterest and youtube to follow along our journey.

    Please note that this page may contain affiliate links in which I will earn a small commission however, it will in no way affect the price you pay. I thank you for your support!

    A sweet creamy dessert topped with pistachio nuts called esh asaraya
    5 from 2 votes
    Print

    Esh Asaraya

    A lusciously sweet bread and cream dessert you are sure to enjoy!

    Course Dessert
    Cuisine Qatari
    Keyword Esh Asaraya
    Prep Time 10 minutes
    Cook Time 10 minutes
    Total Time 20 minutes
    Servings 4
    Calories 838 kcal
    Author Darlene at International Cuisine

    Ingredients

    Ingredients

    • 6 slices Bread sourdough

    For syrup

    • 1 cup Sugar
    • 1/2 cup Water
    • 1 Tablespoon Rose water or a few drops of rose essence

    For cream

    • 2 cups Heavy cream
    • 3 Tablespoons Sugar
    • 1/2 cup Pistachios crushed

    Instructions

    Instructions:

    1. Trim the crust from the sides of the bread and then cut into bite size pieces and place them on a cookie tray.

    2. Heat the oven at 350 F and roast the bread till light brown color. This should just take a few minutes.
    3. Whip the heavy cream with sugar , till it attains soft peeks. Set it aside.

    4. In a sauce pan add the sugar and water.

    5. Boil  until the sugar dissolves and syrup becomes sticky. Add rose water or essence to the syrup.

    6. Add the roasted bread in the boiling sugar syrup and mix well.

    7. Cook them till the sugar starts caramelize and the bread becomes a little golden in color.

    8. Now in a bowl transfer the bread mixed in syrup and press them to form a layer. You can do this in one bowl or make individual servings which ever you prefer.
    9. Next spread the whipped cream and spread it evenly on the bread crumbs.
    10. Garnish with crushed pistachios.

    Nutrition Facts
    Esh Asaraya
    Amount Per Serving
    Calories 838 Calories from Fat 468
    % Daily Value*
    Fat 52g80%
    Saturated Fat 28g175%
    Cholesterol 163mg54%
    Sodium 265mg12%
    Potassium 323mg9%
    Carbohydrates 87g29%
    Fiber 3g13%
    Sugar 62g69%
    Protein 9g18%
    Vitamin A 1815IU36%
    Vitamin C 1.6mg2%
    Calcium 151mg15%
    Iron 2.1mg12%
    * Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

    Filed Under: Dessert, Qatar, Recipes

    Qatari Karak Tea (Spiced Tea with Milk)

    November 29, 2018 By Darlene at International Cuisine

    Qatari karak tea is a true staple.  It was likely brought to the country by workers who arrived back in the 1950’s from India and Pakistan. This type of spiced milky tea is popular in many regions of the world and Qatar is no exception. In fact in Qatar you will find karak tea shops that are open 24 hours.  These shops are always busy with men running out to serve their karak tea, just how their customers like it.  All you have to do is honk and they will come take your order and serve it to you.

    two cups of milky qatari karak tea surrounded by cardamom pods

    In Qatar cardamom is the most used spice in the karak tea however some people like to add also cinnamon, saffron, cloves and ginger.  The cardamom is believed to have many health benefits.  It is said to relieve bloating, heartburn, nausea, and reduces inflammation in the body as well as lowers blood pressure.  No wonder the Qatari people love their tea!

    The milk is also a preference, it could be regular milk, sweetened condensed milk or evaporated milk.  Sugar is also added to taste.   It is really easy to make but it should be boiled up and simmered three times before straining and serving to intensify the flavors.

    I made it with evaporated milk and just cardamom for my husband and I enjoyed mine Plant Paradox compliant, with unsweetened almond milk, all the spices and stevia to sweeten it.  We both adored the delicious karak tea and it was a perfect ending to our Qatari International Cuisine meal.

    Qatari karak tea is a perfect pick me up beverage, it is loved in the mornings to start the day, or  to relax after a hard one, or just to enjoy with family and friends.  It is a Qatari way to welcome you and show their kind hospitality.  Why not enjoy a little Qatari tradition with an easy to make cup of Qatari karak tea?

    I would love to hear how you enjoy yours, do you like it with all the spices or a select few, what kind of milk do you use?  Please let me know in the comments below?

    Did you know that Qatar is one of the few places in the world where they still practice falconry?  If you would like to learn about this little and wealthy nation called Qatar be sure to check out “Our Journey to Qatar“.

    Craving even more?  Be sure to join the culinary and cultural journey around the world so you don’t miss a thing,  it’s free,  You can also follow me on Instagram, Facebook ,  Pinterest and youtube to follow along our journey.

    Please note that this page may contain affiliate links in which I will earn a small commission however, it will in no way affect the price you pay. I thank you for your support!

    two cups of milky qatari karak tea surrounded by cardamom pods
    4 from 4 votes
    Print

    Qatari Karak Tea (Spiced Tea with Milk)

    Qatari karak tea is beloved throughout the country.  A delicious and healthy drink to enjoy anytime.

    Course Drink
    Cuisine Qatari
    Keyword Qatari Karak Tea
    Prep Time 2 minutes
    Cook Time 10 minutes
    Total Time 12 minutes
    Servings 2
    Calories 150 kcal
    Author Darlene at International Cuisine

    Ingredients

    • 2 cups water
    • 2 teaspoons Black tea loose
    • 1/2 teaspoon cardamom crushed or ground
    • 2 cups milk regular, evaporate or condensed
    • sugar to taste
    • cinnamon, saffron, ginger or cloves optional

    Instructions

    1. Boil the water in a saucepan with the loose black tea and cardamom.

    2. Once it boils, add the milk and sugar if you are using. Also if you are adding additional spices, add them in now.

    3. Boil again and then simmer, and repeat two more times

    4. Pour the tea into a cup through a strainer.

    5. Savor your delicious Qatari karak tea

    Nutrition Facts
    Qatari Karak Tea (Spiced Tea with Milk)
    Amount Per Serving
    Calories 150 Calories from Fat 63
    % Daily Value*
    Fat 7g11%
    Saturated Fat 4g25%
    Cholesterol 24mg8%
    Sodium 117mg5%
    Potassium 322mg9%
    Carbohydrates 12g4%
    Sugar 12g13%
    Protein 7g14%
    Vitamin A 395IU8%
    Calcium 283mg28%
    * Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

     

     

    Filed Under: Drinks, Qatar, Recipes

    Welcome to International Cuisine

    Hello my name is Darlene and thank you for stopping by!

    I am cooking a meal from every country in the world. I do extensive research and choose a menu that I feel best represents the country and their cuisine. Of course that also includes the authentic, delicious recipes. Simply click on the link or the photo in the journey by country posts to get them. I also share important information about the country as well.

    I love to cook, photograph, and especially travel. I hope you enjoy this culinary and cultural adventure around the world. Be sure to join the journey so you don't miss a thing. It's free!

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    Come join the journey, explore a new country each week and embark on a fantastic culinary adventure.

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