Tebsi with Rice: One of Iraq’s Most Beloved Traditional Dishes

Introduction

Iraq is a country with a rich culinary tradition that reflects its deep-rooted history, and one dish that stands out among the most loved is Tebsi with Rice. Tebsi, made from eggplants as the star ingredient, is a flavorful and hearty dish that holds a special place on Iraqi dining tables. Whether served as an everyday meal or prepared for a special occasion, Tebsi, paired with fragrant rice (known locally as tmen), is a dish that every traveler to Iraq must try. This article will explore the components, preparation, and serving methods of Tebsi with rice, providing insights for anyone looking to explore authentic Iraqi cuisine.

Ingredients of Tebsi

The key to a good Tebsi lies in the quality of its ingredients. Tebsi is made with fresh vegetables and meat, combining to create a dish that's both nutritious and delicious. Below are the core ingredients:

Eggplant (aubergine): The primary ingredient in Tebsi, eggplant provides the dish with a rich and creamy texture.

Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes are used to make the sauce that envelops the eggplants and meat.

Green bell peppers: Adding a subtle crunch and mild sweetness to the dish.

Meat (lamb or beef): Tebsi can be made with or without meat, but lamb is the preferred choice in Iraq for its tenderness and flavor.

Onions: Essential for creating a flavorful base for the dish.

Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor, giving the sauce a deeper color and richer taste.

Noomi Basra (dried lime): This unique ingredient adds a tangy flavor, balancing the richness of the eggplant and meat.

Spices: A blend of salt, black pepper, and cumin enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Vegetable oil: Used for frying the eggplants, peppers, and onions before they are layered in the baking dish.

Step-by-Step Preparation of Tebsi with Rice

Now, let’s dive into how to prepare this classic Iraqi dish.

1. Preparing the Vegetables

The first step is to prepare the vegetables. The key to a great Tebsi is to slice the vegetables thinly and evenly to ensure they cook uniformly.

Slice the eggplants into thin, round discs. Some people prefer to soak the eggplants in salted water for about 30 minutes before cooking to reduce their bitterness.

Cut the tomatoes and bell peppers into slices or wedges.

Chop the onions finely or into rings, depending on your texture preference.

2. Frying the Vegetables

Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a deep pan.

Once the oil is hot, fry the eggplant slices until they are golden brown on both sides. Remove and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Fry the bell peppers and onions in the same oil until soft and lightly golden. Set them aside with the eggplants.

3. Preparing the Meat (if using)

Cut the lamb or beef into bite-sized pieces.

In a separate pot, heat a little oil and sauté the meat with chopped onions until browned.

Add salt, pepper, cumin, and Noomi Basra for flavor. Cover the meat with water and let it simmer for about 40 minutes until tender.

4. Making the Tomato Sauce

In a saucepan, heat some vegetable oil and add a few tablespoons of tomato paste.

Add chopped tomatoes and season with salt and pepper.

Cook the sauce on low heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the tomatoes break down and the sauce thickens.

5. Assembling the Tebsi

In a large baking dish, start by layering the fried vegetables at the bottom—eggplants, peppers, and onions.

Add a layer of the cooked meat (if using).

Pour the tomato sauce evenly over the layers.

Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 40 minutes.

Serving Tebsi with Rice

Tebsi is traditionally served with tmen, or Iraqi rice. The light, fluffy, and aromatic rice is the perfect accompaniment, soaking up the rich flavors of the tomato sauce and eggplants.

How to Cook Iraqi Rice (Tmen):

1. Rinse the rice several times until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch, ensuring fluffy rice.

2. Soak the rice in water for about 30 minutes before cooking.

3. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add a pinch of salt.

4. Add the soaked rice and let it cook for about 7-10 minutes. The rice should still be firm when drained.

5. Drain the rice and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.

6. Return the rice to the pot, cover it with a tight-fitting lid, and cook on low heat for about 20 minutes until fully cooked and fluffy.

Tebsi can also be served with fresh salad or chili peppers on the side for an extra kick. For those who prefer, it can be enjoyed with fresh Iraqi bread (khubz) instead of rice. The bread is perfect for scooping up the sauce and vegetables.

Tebsi: A Versatile Everyday Dish

One of the reasons Tebsi is so popular in Iraqi households is its versatility. It can be enjoyed as a simple, meatless dish or prepared with lamb for a more filling meal. It's also a great option for vegetarians (when made without meat), as the rich flavors of the eggplant, tomatoes, and spices make it incredibly satisfying on its own.

Iraqi families often make Tebsi in large quantities because it stores well and tastes even better the next day. This makes it an ideal choice for a family gathering or weeknight dinner.

Tips for Making the Perfect Tebsi

Use fresh, firm eggplants to avoid bitterness and sogginess.

Fry the vegetables separately to maintain their texture. Overcrowding the pan can cause them to become too soft.

Don’t skip the Noomi Basra (dried lime): It’s an essential ingredient that gives Tebsi its distinctive tangy flavor.

For a healthier version, consider baking the eggplants instead of frying them.

You can adjust the spices according to your preference—add chili flakes for more heat or extra garlic for depth of flavor.

Why You Should Try Tebsi When Visiting Iraq

For travelers looking to experience the authentic flavors of Iraq, Tebsi is a must-try dish. Its simple yet hearty ingredients make it a comforting and accessible option for those new to Iraqi cuisine. Whether you’re dining at a traditional Iraqi restaurant or being welcomed into someone’s home, you’re likely to encounter this dish. Be sure to pair it with a cup of Iraqi tea for the full experience.

Tebsi with Rice is one of Iraq’s most beloved dishes for a reason—it’s flavorful, hearty, and deeply rooted in the country’s culinary traditions. Whether enjoyed as a daily meal or served at special occasions, Tebsi offers a taste of Iraq’s rich food culture. For anyone visiting Iraq, this dish is a must-try, showcasing the flavors of the country through simple, wholesome ingredients.