Thareed

Thareed

ثريد (tha-REED)

Bread and Lamb Stew

Prep Time 1.5 hours
📈 Difficulty Medium
👥 Servings
6
🔥 Calories 518 kcal

A hearty stew of tender lamb and vegetables poured over layers of thin, crispy bread that softens into a luscious, flavor-soaked base. This dish holds a place of honor in Islamic culinary tradition.

Nutrition & Info

520 kcal per serving
Protein 32.0g
Carbs 48.0g
Fat 22.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

dairy-free nut-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ gluten

Equipment Needed

large pot deep serving platter ladle

Instructions

  1. 1

    Brown the lamb cubes in a large pot with a tablespoon of oil over high heat for 5 minutes until deeply seared on all sides.

  2. 2

    Add diced onions and garlic, cooking for 3 minutes until softened. Stir in tomato paste, turmeric, baharat, and salt.

  3. 3

    Add diced tomatoes and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 45 minutes until the lamb is very tender.

  4. 4

    Add potatoes, carrots, and zucchini to the stew. Cook for another 20 minutes until all vegetables are soft but not mushy.

  5. 5

    Tear the regag bread into large pieces and layer them on a deep serving platter, covering the entire base.

  6. 6

    Ladle the hot stew with its rich broth over the bread, allowing it to soak in for 2 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve communally.

💡

Did You Know?

Prophet Muhammad praised thareed above all other dishes, comparing its superiority among foods to the superiority of Aisha among women, giving it a revered place in Islamic culinary tradition.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • large pot
  • deep serving platter
  • ladle

The Story Behind Thareed

Thareed holds a unique place in Saudi and Islamic culinary heritage as a dish specifically praised in the hadith of Prophet Muhammad. The concept of pouring a rich meat stew over bread to create a complete, nourishing meal dates back to pre-Islamic Arabia, when Bedouin communities needed efficient ways to feed large groups using available ingredients. The dish evolved alongside Saudi culture, with the traditional regag bread providing a paper-thin, crispy base that transforms into a silky layer as it absorbs the spiced broth. During Ramadan and Eid al-Adha, thareed appears on virtually every Saudi table as both a spiritual and culinary tradition.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed ramadan iftar, eid al-adha 📜 Origins: Prophet Muhammad era (7th century)

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