Besides roast lamb, the Arab Gulf countries are noted for their fish dishes. This tasty dish, popular in all the Arab Gulf countries, is an example of fish at its best. At times, it takes the place of roasted lamb for special occasions. This traditional dish is prepared with rice and either meat and/or seafood. Typically it is served from a large communal platter at wedding feasts and banquets. For a great tasting combination, pair this dish with Creamy Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad.

Serves 8

PREP TIME: 30 minutes
COOKING TIME: 1 hour
SOAKING TIME: 8 hours
STANDING TIME: 30 minutes

INGREDIENTS

• 6 tablespoons (3/4 stick/85 g) butter
• 2 cups (400 g) uncooked Basmati or other white long-grain rice, soaked for 5 minutes, thoroughly rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup (100 g) brown lentils, soaked overnight in 5 1/2 cups (1.3 liters) water and drained (reserve the water)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• Generous pinch of ground red pepper (cayenne)
• 2 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 4 lbs (1.75 kg) grouper (hamour) fillet, cut into 2-in (5-cm) pieces (substitute halibut, cod, haddock, sea bass or other white firm-fleshed fish)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 cup (125 ml) oil
• 4 onions, thinly sliced

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan with a lid over medium heat.
2. Add the rice and stir constantly for 2 minutes.
3. Add the lentils with their soaking water, black pepper, cumin, ginger, ground red pepper and 1 teaspoon of the salt and bring to a boil.
4. Cover and cook over medium-low heat for 20 minutes, stirring a few times.
5. Remove from the heat, stir, and cover. Allow the rice and lentils to cook in their own steam for 30 minutes.
6. Sprinkle the fish pieces on both sides with the garlic powder and the remaining salt. Set aside.
7. Heat 4 tablespoons of the oil in a medium skillet over medium heat.
8. Add the onion and sauté until golden brown. Set aside, but keep warm.
9. Heat the remaining oil in another medium skillet over medium heat.
10. Add the fish and fry for about 8 minutes, turning over once or until done. Do not overcook. Set aside.
11. Place the rice and the lentils on a serving platter and spread the onion evenly over the top.
12. Place the fish pieces over the onion and serve.