Lebanese Hashweh Rice

Lebanese Hashweh Rice, a dish popular across the Middle East, holds a special place in the hearts of many families, including mine. As a child, my mother would make this Lebanese Hashweh recipe on special occasions, spread it on a large platter, topped with either chicken or lamb, then cover it with toasted pine nuts and almonds. Today, I still prepare it as my mother did, and it never fails to transport me back to my childhood.

This delicious Lebanese rice recipe perfectly accompanies a simple salad or yogurt salad or is served alongside other dishes like roasted chicken or lamb and roasted vegetables. Its unique blend of spices and textures makes it an exceptional and flavorful addition to any meal. Due to the delicious flavor and nostalgia, this dish brings me, it has become one of my favorite Hashweh recipes. Read more below about this authentic Hashweh recipe. I sincerely hope you enjoy it!

What is Lebanese Hashweh rice?

Hashweh rice is a popular Middle Eastern dish rooted in the traditional practice of stuffing chicken or lamb. The term “hashweh” means stuffing, and the dish is made by mixing ground lamb with rice cooked separately with an array of aromatic spices and cinnamon. The spices vary depending on the region and country; vegetables like sweet peas are sometimes added.
Once the lamb and rice are cooked and seasoned to perfection, the mixture is used to stuff the chicken or lamb, similar to how I prepare my Cornish hen recipe. This dish can also be enjoyed simply as a side dish, with the flavorful and spiced rice being the show’s star.

What to serve with Hashweh Lebanese rice?

Several delicious dishes can be served alongside hashweh rice. Essentially, you can enjoy this flavorful rice dish alone or pair it with various Middle Eastern salads such as; cucumber yogurt salad, fattoush salad, or tabbouleh. In addition, you can also serve this Hashweh rice recipe alongside main dishes like roasted chicken, lamb shanks, or kofta. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with various proteins and vegetables. Making it an excellent choice for a family meal or dinner party. The possibilities are truly endless when it comes to pairing hashweh rice with other dishes. If you want to try out some of our other rice dishes, I recommend checking out our Rice vermicelli recipe, Yemeni rice, Greek lemon rice, and herb risotto. Each dish has its own unique flavor, so it depends on what you’re in the mood for. Give them a try; they’re all delicious!

What is the ratio of rice to meat? 

The rice-to-meat ratio in hashweh rice can vary depending on personal preference. Some people prefer a higher proportion of meat to rice, while others prefer more rice than meat. I like to use one and a half cups of rice for each pound of meat. I enjoy the flavor and texture of the meat in the dish. This ratio typically serves about six people, but you can adjust the measurements to suit your needs. While I prefer a combination of ground lamb and beef in my hashweh rice, you can use any meat you choose. Experiment with different meats to find the flavor profile that suits your taste buds.

What are Some Variations of Hashweh Lebanese rice?

While the traditional Hashweh rice Lebanese style includes ground meat and aromatic spices, endless variations can suit different preferences and flavor profiles. For example, you can make a vegan dish by omitting the meat. Adding garbanzo beans, chopped tomatoes, and fresh herbs for added flavor.

Other variations can include adding vegetables like carrots and peas to the dish in addition to the meat. You can also experiment with different types of mushrooms and fresh herbs like cilantro to add depth and complexity to the dish. You can tailor hashweh rice to your personal taste preferences, which is one of its great features. With creativity and imagination, you can make various delicious variations that will satisfy your taste buds.

What spices do you need to make the rice hashweh?

The best hashweh recipe will require a combination of spices commonly used in Middle Eastern cuisine. One popular spice blend used in the dish is called “seven spices.” This includes various black pepper, coriander, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and sweet allspice. Another spice mixture that adds a unique and delicious flavor to hashweh rice is “hawajah.” Hawajah is a unique spice blend commonly used to flavor Ghee. It typically includes a combination of ground cumin, turmeric, black pepper, coriander, and cardamom. Add a small spoonful of the spice to incorporate into your hashweh rice. This will add a subtle but distinct flavor and aroma to the dish. 

Suppose you need help finding seven spices or hewjah at your local Middle Eastern market.  You can create a substitute by combining individual spices like black pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, coriander, and cloves. Just be sure to adjust the ratios to suit your taste, as some herbs are stronger than others.

There you have it; below is my delicious Hashweh recipe Lebanese style. Comment below and let me know what you think!