East Africa · Main
Bariis Iskukaris (Somali Spiced Rice with Goat Meat)
Long-grain basmati perfumed with Xawaash spice blend and saffron water, baked over rich braised goat meat.
The story
Bariis Iskukaris represents the cornerstone of Somali hospitality, fusing Arabian, Persian, and Indian Ocean trade route influences. The defining element is Xawaash, an artisanal spice blend toasted and ground with cumin, coriander, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and turmeric. In traditional Somali custom, this fragrant spiced rice is always served alongside a fresh whole peeled banana (moos) to eat bite-for-bite.
Cook this next
Baasto Faasoliya (Spiced Spaghetti with White Bean Stew)
An iconic Somali pasta tossed in a rich, xawaash-spiced tomato stew loaded with tender cannellini beans, sweet peppers, and cilantro.
Basbaas Cagaar (Spicy Green Chili and Coriander Relish)
An electric green, zesty Somali condiment bursting with fresh chilies, cilantro, garlic, and bright lime juice.
Cambuulo (Simmered Azuki Beans and Maize with Sesame Oil)
Tender azuki beans and cracked field corn slow-simmered to a luscious porridge, laced with fragrant toasted sesame oil and raw sugar.
Maraq Digaag (Spiced Chicken and Potato Soup)
A golden, comforting chicken and potato broth infused with aromatic Xawaash, fresh cilantro, and a bright squeeze of lime.