Thin rounds of handmade dough layered with a rich tomato-lamb stew, creating a lasagna-like dish of soaked bread and fragrant meat sauce. This Najdi classic is the definition of Saudi comfort food.
Nutrition & Info
Allergen Warnings
Equipment Needed
Instructions
-
1
Make the dough by combining whole wheat flour, salt, and water. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth. Divide into 6 balls and rest covered for 15 minutes.
-
2
Roll each ball into a thin round disc about 20cm wide. Cook on a dry griddle for 2 minutes per side until set but still pliable.
-
3
Brown the lamb in oil in a large pot for 5 minutes. Add onion and cook until softened. Stir in tomato paste, baharat, and turmeric.
-
4
Add pureed tomatoes, potatoes, zucchini, and water. Simmer covered for 45 minutes until the lamb is tender and the vegetables are cooked.
-
5
Layer the cooked bread rounds in a deep serving dish. Ladle the hot stew generously over each layer, allowing the bread to absorb the broth.
-
6
Let the assembled dish rest for 5 minutes so the bread fully soaks up the stew. Serve from the dish, scooping through all layers.
Did You Know?
Gursan is considered the ultimate test of a Najdi cook — the bread must be thin enough to absorb the stew without disintegrating into mush.
Chef's Notes
Equipment Tips
- large pot
- rolling pin
- griddle or skillet
- deep serving dish
The Story Behind Gursan
Gursan is a signature dish of the Najd region, the heartland of Saudi Arabia. It showcases the traditional Najdi technique of combining handmade bread with rich stews, creating layered dishes that are greater than the sum of their parts. The bread rounds, cooked on a simple griddle, become silky and rich as they absorb the spiced lamb and vegetable stew. This dish was historically prepared for large family gatherings, with the grandmother of the household making the bread while younger family members prepared the stew. Gursan remains a beloved comfort food that connects modern Saudis to their Najdi culinary roots.
Comments (0)
Log in to leave a comment.
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!