Biram Ruz

Biram Ruz Recipe from Egypt | Grain, Milk, Heavy Cream, Salt, Butter

Region / culture: Egypt | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Biram Ruz is a delightful and comforting dish that combines the simplicity of rice with the richness of milk, cream, and butter to create a creamy, indulgent treat. This dish is perfect for those who appreciate the finer nuances of a well-prepared rice dish, offering a creamy texture and a rich flavor profile that is both satisfying and heartwarming. Whether you're looking to prepare a special meal for your family or simply want to indulge in a creamy rice dish, Biram Ruz is sure to impress.

History

The origins of Biram Ruz can be traced back to Middle Eastern cuisine, where rice plays a pivotal role in many traditional dishes. Over the years, it has evolved and been adapted by various cultures, each adding their own twist to the recipe. The version presented here is a testament to the dish's versatility and enduring popularity, combining elements from different culinary traditions to create a unique and delicious experience.

Ingredients

1 cup of long grain rice.
1 cup of whole milk (skim milk for the health-conscious).
2 cups of heavy cream.
2 tsp of salt.
15 tbsp of butter.

How to prepare

1. Heat the milk until it reaches scalding temperature.
2. Place the rice in a baking dish, pour the hot milk over it, stir in the salt, and place the dish in the oven at 400°F for approximately 30–40 minutes.
3. Just before all the milk is absorbed, create a small indentation in the center of the rice and add the butter.
4. While the butter is melting, take some of it and sprinkle it on top of the rice.
5. Allow it to cook for an additional 20–30 minutes, until the rice turns brown on top.

Variations

For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with additional skim milk or a plant-based milk alternative. You can also add spices such as cinnamon or cardamom for a fragrant twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the perfect Biram Ruz, consider the following tips:

- Use long grain rice for the best texture.

- Scald the milk before adding it to the rice to help jumpstart the cooking process.

- Stir the rice gently after adding the milk to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the dish.

- Keep a close eye on the dish during the final stages of cooking to prevent the top from burning.

Serving Suggestions

Biram Ruz can be served as a main dish or as a rich side dish. It pairs well with lighter salads or grilled vegetables to balance the richness of the rice.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the preferred cooking technique for Biram Ruz, as it allows the rice to absorb the flavors of the milk and cream while developing a deliciously crispy top layer.

Ingredient Substitutions

For those looking to reduce the dish's fat content, consider using low-fat milk and reducing the amount of butter. Vegan alternatives like coconut milk and vegan butter can also be used for a dairy-free version.

Make Ahead Tips

Biram Ruz can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated. To reheat, simply cover with foil and warm in the oven until heated through.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Biram Ruz in a beautiful baking dish, garnished with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness and visual appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Biram Ruz with a light, crisp white wine or a refreshing herbal tea to complement the dish's richness.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm throughout.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Biram Ruz is relatively high in calories, primarily due to the heavy cream, butter, and milk. This makes it a hearty and filling dish, perfect for special occasions or indulgent meals.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Biram Ruz is rich in carbohydrates, primarily from the rice, providing the body with essential energy. The carbohydrates in this dish are complex, offering a steady release of energy over time.

Fats

The heavy cream, butter, and milk contribute to the fat content in Biram Ruz. These ingredients add richness and flavor, making the dish indulgent. The fats are a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats, important for maintaining healthy cell functions.

Proteins

While not the primary focus of the dish, Biram Ruz does contain some protein from the milk and heavy cream. This contributes to the overall nutritional balance of the meal.

Vitamins and minerals

Biram Ruz provides a range of vitamins and minerals, including calcium from the milk and cream, which is essential for bone health. Additionally, the dish contains other micronutrients that support overall health and well-being.

Alergens

The main allergens in Biram Ruz are dairy products, including milk, cream, and butter. Individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies should avoid this dish or seek dairy-free alternatives.

Summary

Overall, Biram Ruz is a rich and indulgent dish that offers a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals. However, due to its high calorie and dairy content, it is best enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

Biram Ruz is a rich, creamy rice dish that offers a comforting and indulgent eating experience. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it's a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit various dietary needs and preferences. Whether served as a main dish or a decadent side, Biram Ruz is sure to delight anyone who tries it.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Biram Ruz. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Lebanon. My grandmother, who was a renowned cook in our community, had invited me into the kitchen to help her prepare a special meal for a family gathering.

As I watched her carefully measure out the ingredients and skillfully mix them together, I couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder at the way she effortlessly created such delicious dishes. I had always admired my grandmother's cooking, but this particular recipe for Biram Ruz seemed to hold a special magic.

I asked her where she had learned to make this dish, and she smiled knowingly as she explained that it was a recipe passed down through generations of our family. She told me that the secret to making Biram Ruz perfectly was in the way the rice was cooked – not too soft, not too firm, but just right.

I watched as she added the fragrant spices and tender chunks of lamb to the pot, the enticing aroma filling the kitchen and making my mouth water. I could hardly wait to taste the finished dish.

As the Biram Ruz simmered on the stove, my grandmother shared stories of her own childhood, of learning to cook from her own mother and grandmother. She told me about the different ingredients she had used in the recipe, and how each one had been carefully selected to create a harmony of flavors.

When the time finally came to serve the Biram Ruz, I eagerly took my first bite. The rice was perfectly cooked, each grain infused with the rich flavors of the spices and tender meat. I closed my eyes in delight, savoring the taste of my grandmother's skill and love poured into every bite.

From that moment on, I was determined to learn the recipe for Biram Ruz myself. I spent countless hours in the kitchen with my grandmother, watching her every move and memorizing the steps to creating this masterpiece of a dish.

Over time, I began to experiment with the recipe, adding my own twists and variations to make it uniquely my own. I tried different cuts of meat, adjusted the levels of spices, and even added in some of my own favorite ingredients.

As I continued to hone my skills in the kitchen, my own version of Biram Ruz became a beloved staple in our family gatherings. I would proudly present my dish to my grandmother, who would smile and nod in approval, knowing that her legacy was being carried on through me.

Now, as I sit here reflecting on those cherished memories, I realize that the recipe for Biram Ruz is so much more than just a list of ingredients and instructions. It is a connection to my past, a link to my heritage, and a celebration of the love and tradition that has been passed down through the generations.

I am grateful for the lessons I learned from my grandmother in the kitchen, and for the legacy of delicious recipes that she bestowed upon me. And as I continue to cook and share these dishes with my own family, I know that the spirit of my grandmother lives on in every bite.