Quirky Foodster
  1. Back

Lunches

Jireesh

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (0)
15 min (plus soaking)
Prep
1 hr
Cook
5
Servings

Ingredients

  • 2 cups (350 g) cracked wheat (jireesh), soaked 2 hours
  • 800 g (1.75 lb) bone-in chicken pieces
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tbsp ghee
  • 6 cups (1.5 l) water
  • Salt to taste
  • Fried onions, for garnish

Method

  1. Melt the ghee in a large pot and sauté the onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.
  2. Add the chicken pieces and brown lightly on all sides.
  3. Stir in the cinnamon, pepper and cumin, then add the water and bring to a boil.
  4. Simmer for 25 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked, then remove the chicken and set aside to cool.
  5. Drain the soaked cracked wheat and add it to the simmering broth; cook uncovered, stirring often, for 25-30 minutes until thick and porridge-like.
  6. Shred the cooled chicken, discarding bones, and fold it back into the wheat porridge.
  7. Season with salt, ladle into bowls, and top generously with fried onions.

Introduction: Jireesh is a hearty Kuwaiti porridge made from cracked wheat cooked slowly with chicken or meat until thick and creamy.

Cultural Background: Jireesh is a hearty Kuwaiti porridge made from cracked wheat cooked slowly with chicken or meat until thick and creamy. Once a practical, filling dish for cooler months, it remains a comforting home-style lunch found in Kuwaiti households and traditional restaurants alike.

Tips: Stir frequently near the end of cooking as the porridge thickens quickly and can stick. Soaking the cracked wheat beforehand shortens the cooking time and gives a creamier texture.

Variations: Lamb can replace chicken for a richer version. A drizzle of ghee just before serving adds extra richness.

Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days; the porridge will thicken further when chilled.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or stock, stirring to loosen the texture.

FAQs:

Q: What is cracked wheat (jireesh)?

A: Whole wheat berries that have been coarsely crushed, available in Middle Eastern grocers.

Q: Why is my jireesh too thick?

A: Add a little hot water or stock while reheating to loosen it.

© Arscale 2026