Saleeg is a full-flavored dish that represents Makkah Region. It is a classic Saudi rice dish with a rich creamy texture.
As the Kingdom prepares to celebrate the 94th National Day on September 23, Saleeg will be a centerpiece in every dinner table in Makkah. It is an easy to make dish, with simple and readily available ingredients.
Makkah Hospitality
Makkah is home to the Grand Mosque, the holiest site in Islam. Each year, it warmly receives millions of pilgrims during Hajj and Umrah seasons. Upon their arrival in the airports, pilgrims receive a warm welcome, with water, flowers, and gifts.
Hailing from Hejaz, Saleeg is a rich creamy rice dish that combines the originality of the Saudi cuisine and the hospitality of Makkah people. As a sign of respect and hospitality, the people of Makkah are keen to serve this simple and savory dish to guests.
National Day Celebrations
Over the years, the Saudi National Day has become a celebration of patriotism and traditions. It features popular music and dance shows, as well as traditional festivals all over the Kingdom’s regions.
Saudi traditional food is a central aspect of the National Day celebrations. All households, public places, restaurants and cafes serve Saudi traditional dishes and drinks on this occasion.
Makkah Region upholds its traditions and heritage. Hence, Saleeg is an essential element in every household, featuring in feasts, weddings and social occasions.
Saleeg Authenticity
Saleeg has been selected to represent the culture and heritage of Makkah Region. The traditional Saudi dish is distinguished by its creamy texture. Combining rice, milk and chicken, it is highly nutritious and easy to digest.
The Saudi traditional spices enrich Saleeg with more aroma and flavor. Adding to its authenticity, Saleeg is traditionally served in a large serving platter called tabasi, where the roasted chicken is placed on top of the rice.
Saleeg Recipe
Saleeg can be made with roasted chicken or meat. However, chicken is more common. Resembling risotto, Saleeg is creamy, tasty and easy to prepare.
The delicious Saudi dish is prepared in two stages: preparing the chicken stock and then cooking the rice with milk.
Chicken Stock and Seasoning
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (1200 grams)
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 green whole cardamoms
- 5 garlic cloves
- 1 medium onion cut in half
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 teaspoon salt
- black pepper
- Paprika
- Enough water to cover the chicken
Preparation:
- In a large pot, boil water and add the chicken, garlic cloves, onion, and spices
- Let them boil until the chicken is cooked
- Keep the stock aside
- Cut the chicken into 4 pieces and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Season the chicken with salt, black pepper and paprika
- Spray the chicken with oil
- Put the chicken in a preheated oven until it gets a golden brown color
Rice Cooking
Ingredients:
- 1 1/4 short-grain rice (washed and soaked)
- 4 1/2 cups of the chicken stock
- 2 cups of whole milk
- Salt
Preparation:
- In a large pot, add chicken stock and let it come to a boil
- Add the rice and cook for 40 minutes on medium heat
- Pour the milk over the rice and season with salt to taste
- Cook for more 10 minutes
- Serve Saleeg rice in a tabasi platter with the chicken on top
