Iraqi-style Guihan

Ingredients

In this adaptation of Guihan to Iraqi cuisine, we incorporate saffron, a popular spice in Iraqi cooking, to infuse the rice with a vibrant golden color and a subtle floral aroma. The meat filling is also seasoned with traditional Iraqi spices, such as cumin and coriander, to add a distinct flavor profile that complements the saffron-infused rice. We alse have the original recipe for Guihan, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) short-grain rice 2 cups (400g) short-grain rice
• 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef 1 pound (450g) ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying Vegetable oil for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 1g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes, then drain.
2. 2.
   In a small bowl, dissolve the saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of hot water. Set aside.
3. 3.
   In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
4. 4.
   Take a small portion of the meat mixture and shape it into a small ball. Repeat with the remaining meat mixture.
5. 5.
   Take a handful of the soaked rice and shape it into a ball. Make a small indentation in the center of the rice ball and place a meat ball inside. Gently press the rice around the meat ball to enclose it completely. Repeat with the remaining rice and meat balls.
6. 6.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or pot over medium heat. Fry the rice balls in batches until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside. Remove from the oil and drain on a paper towel.
7. 7.
   Serve the Iraqi-style Guihan hot as a main dish or as part of a larger meal.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Saffron — To enhance the flavor and color of saffron, soak the threads in hot water for at least 10 minutes before using them in the recipe.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture.
• For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or mashed chickpeas.
• Serve Iraqi-style Guihan with a side of yogurt or a tangy tomato sauce for added flavor.
• To make the rice balls more visually appealing, garnish them with chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro.
• Leftover Iraqi-style Guihan can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven for a delicious next-day meal.

Serving advice

Serve Iraqi-style Guihan as a main dish accompanied by a fresh salad or pickled vegetables. It can also be served as an appetizer or part of a mezze platter.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden rice balls on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of saffron threads. Serve with a side of yogurt or a tangy tomato sauce for dipping.