Al-Hasawi rice is one of the unique agricultural products prevalent in the Al-Ahsa region of Saudi Arabia. It is not just rice, but also an agricultural heritage known for its high quality, distinct flavor, and rich nutritional value. If you are unaware of the prominent benefits of Al-Hasawi rice due to its ideal nutritional composition, then in this article, we highlight its main components and healthy varieties.

What is Al-Hasawi Rice?

Al-Hasawi rice, also known as Al-Hasawi bread, is one of the most prominent agricultural products that represents the identity of Al-Ahsa in Saudi Arabia. It is cultivated in the Al-Ahsa oasis in villages such as Al-Qarain, Al-Mutairfi, Al-Ghuwaybah, and Al-Wiziyah, where suitable environmental conditions for its growth are available. It requires heavy clay soil to retain water and high temperatures. Its cultivation begins by flooding the land with water and planting seedlings, and this process continues for about 6 months or more, with careful nurturing until it ripens.

Specialized machinery is used for its harvesting, which ensures reduced time and effort. It is distinguished by its red color and high nutritional value, hence the numerous benefits of Al-Hasawi rice. It is also characterized by its traditional nature rooted in the lives of the people of Al-Ahsa, making it an integral part of their culinary and social heritage.

 Types of Al-Hasawi Rice

Genetic Origin

It belongs to the Indica rice group, and some varieties fall between Indica and Japonica. One of its types is known as Javanica in some classifications.

Local Al-Hasawi Rice

The rice grain is short and plump, with a dark red color. It is cultivated early in the season and is one of the oldest types of Al-Hasawi rice.

Hasawi 1

It was imported and adapted to the Al-Ahsa environment more than 50 years ago. It is cultivated at a medium time and is classified as a hybrid.

Hasawi 2

This is a special hybrid type that combines characteristics of Indian and Japanese rice. Its rice grain is relatively short, and its color tends to be light red with some white grains, and it is cultivated late in the season.

What are the Benefits of Al-Hasawi Rice?

Al-Hasawi rice has surpassed many other rice varieties due to its traditional cultivation method and the environment in which it grows. The benefits of Al-Hasawi rice are numerous due to its high nutritional value, as it contains:

• Complex carbohydrates.

• Natural dietary fiber, present in a higher proportion than in white rice varieties.

• Low percentage of sugars and starches.

• A good percentage of plant protein compared to white rice.

• Low percentage of natural fats, mostly unsaturated.

• Vitamins such as B vitamins.

• Minerals such as iron, magnesium, phosphorus.

• Active plant compounds such as flavonoids, phenolic compounds.

Therefore, it is an ideal, high-quality, and completely natural type of rice, and thus the benefits of Al-Hasawi rice are numerous, but do you know where to find it?

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How to Prepare Al-Hasawi Rice

Here is how to cook Al-Hasawi rice correctly to get a balanced dish in terms of taste and texture:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of Al-Hasawi rice.

• 4 cups of water, or chicken or meat broth.

• 2 tablespoons of ghee or butter.

• 1 chopped onion.

• 2 cloves of minced garlic.

• 1 teaspoon of mixed spices.

• Salt.

• A handful of roasted nuts.

Preparation steps:

1. Wash the rice thoroughly with cold water to remove any impurities.

2. Soak the rice in warm water for 20 - 30 minutes to speed up the cooking process and give the rice grains a slightly soft texture.

3. Heat the ghee or butter over medium heat in a deep pot.

4. Add the chopped onion and stir well until golden.

5. Add the minced garlic and stir, then add the mixed spices and stir quickly.

6. Add hot water or broth and let it come to a boil.

7. Add the rice and stir the mixture gently.

8. Cover the pot carefully and reduce the heat to the lowest setting.

9. Leave it on low heat for 15 - 20 minutes until cooked.

10. After serving it on a plate, you can garnish it with roasted nuts.

How to Store Al-Hasawi Rice Correctly?

To preserve the benefits of Al-Hasawi rice and its high nutritional value, the correct storage method must be followed:

The Right Container

Store the rice in an airtight glass or plastic container to prevent air leakage and prevent it from absorbing surrounding odors.

Away from Moisture and Light

Place the container in a cool, dry place away from sources of moisture so that the grains do not spoil or their taste changes, and avoid direct sunlight so that its quality does not deteriorate over time.

Room Temperature

The rice should also be stored at a moderate temperature not exceeding 25 degrees Celsius.

Regular Monitoring

If you are keeping a large quantity of Al-Hasawi rice, check it periodically to ensure there are no tiny insects.

Temporary Freezing

If you wish to store it for a long period exceeding ten months, freeze it in airtight bags inside the freezer.

Different Meals Using Al-Hasawi Rice

Al-Hasawi Rice with Meat, Pine Nuts, and Raisins

1. Sauté an onion in a pot over heat until it wilts, then add tomatoes and raisins with a sprinkle of coarse salt.

2. Add meat pieces with a little meat spice and stir well until the flavors combine.

3. Add the washed and drained Al-Hasawi rice, cover it with water, and let it cook on low heat until done.

4. Finally, garnish with toasted pine nuts.

Al-Hasawi Rice with Fish and Shrimp

1. Soak Al-Hasawi rice for at least 8 hours to get a well-cooked texture and rich color.

2. Sauté onions in oil and add ground tomatoes, tomato paste, coriander, garlic, pepper, and your favorite spices.

3. Add a generous amount of water and let it boil for five minutes.

4. Then, add the rice and close the pot.

5. Season the fish and shrimp with rice and fish spices, then grill them well.

6. Serve Al-Hasawi rice on a serving platter and garnish with fish and shrimp pieces.

Roasted Al-Hasawi Rice with Chicken

1. Roast the onions in a pot until they turn dark brown, then add spices and tomato paste with a little water.

2. After boiling, blend the onions in a blender and return them to the pot, then add chicken pieces with a black lemon and a cinnamon stick.

3. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it and add the pre-soaked rice, letting it simmer on low heat until fully cooked.

4. Finally, serve it with a side sauce to enjoy an irresistible taste.

Al-Hasawi Rice with Vegetables

1. Prepare the meat broth in advance and wash the rice thoroughly.

2. In a wide pot, melt a little fat and make sure to roast the whole spices, then add onions and garlic until they soften.

3. Add tomatoes, spices, and a green chili pepper, then stir the ingredients well.

4. Add the rice and stir it well with the vegetables, then pour in the hot broth with two cups of water.

5. Cover the pot and let it cook on low heat for an hour.

6. Serve it in a special dish and garnish with parsley or cilantro.

Most Frequently Asked Questions About the Benefits of Al-Hasawi Rice

How long does Al-Hasawi rice take to cook?

The cooking time depends on the preparation method, but typically this process takes about 25-30 minutes after the water boils. However, it is preferable to soak it for 15-20 minutes before cooking for best results.

What is the best type of Al-Hasawi rice?

There are many types of Al-Hasawi rice, but the most important is the hybrid rice.

Is Al-Hasawi rice washed?

Yes, it is washed and soaked for 30 minutes before cooking.

At the end of our discussion, we have learned about the benefits of Al-Hasawi rice due to its abundant nutritional elements. Do not hesitate to visit our store now to get the finest types of natural, healthy, and beneficial Al-Hasawi rice for all your family members to enjoy the best flavors and most delicious foods at the same time.

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