Dill Rice with Broad Beans (Timen Baqila) – A Simple Yet Flavorful Iraqi Dish

The Simplicity and Richness of Timen Baqila

Iraq is known not only for its ancient heritage and historical landmarks but also for its delicious and diverse cuisine. One of the most beloved traditional dishes is Timen Baqila—a fragrant rice dish with dill, broad beans, chicken, and turmeric. With its simple preparation and flavorful outcome, Timen Baqila remains a household favorite. This dish reflects the Iraqi culinary philosophy of balancing simplicity with rich taste, making it an excellent meal for anyone visiting Iraq and looking to explore local flavors.

We will explore the ingredients and step-by-step preparation of Timen Baqila, perfect for those who want to try their hand at cooking Iraqi food. We’ll also highlight how this dish is enjoyed and served across Iraq.

Ingredients for Timen Baqila

To make this flavorful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Basmati rice (or any long-grain rice): 2 cups

Dill (shibint): 1 cup, finely chopped

Broad beans (baqila): 1 cup, peeled

Chicken breast: 300 grams, cut into small cubes

Turmeric powder: 1 teaspoon

Vegetable oil: 3 tablespoons

Salt: To taste

Step-by-Step Preparation of Timen Baqila

1. Preparing the Ingredients

1. Start by thoroughly washing the dill (shibint) under cold water to remove any dirt. Once cleaned, finely chop the dill and set it aside.

2. Peel the broad beans (baqila). Split them into two halves and keep them ready for cooking.

2. Cooking the Chicken with Turmeric and Dill

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.

2. Add the chicken cubes to the pot, followed by turmeric powder, and sauté the chicken until it turns golden brown. The turmeric will give the chicken a beautiful yellow color and enhance its flavor.

3. Once the chicken is browned, add a portion of the chopped dill and stir well to infuse the flavors. Set this mixture aside temporarily.

3. Cooking the Rice

1. In the same pot, add the rice to the sautéed chicken and dill mixture. Stir well so that the rice absorbs the flavors of the chicken and turmeric.

2. Pour in the required amount of water and add salt to taste. Cover the pot and let the rice cook on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is fluffy and fully cooked.

4. Preparing the Broad Beans and Dill Mixture

1. While the rice is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a small pan.

2. Add the broad beans and the remaining dill to the pan, stirring continuously to ensure even cooking. The beans should become soft but still retain their shape.

3. Once done, transfer the cooked beans and dill mixture to the pot containing the rice and chicken.

5. Final Cooking and Fluffing the Rice

1. Gently mix the rice with the broad beans and dill to combine all the flavors evenly.

2. Cover the pot again and let the dish simmer on low heat for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions: Enjoying Timen Baqila

Timen Baqila is typically served hot, either as a main course or alongside other dishes. Many locals in Iraq enjoy this dish with a side of yogurt (laban), which provides a refreshing balance to the warmth of the turmeric and the herbs in the dish. A simple tomato and cucumber salad also pairs well with Timen Baqila, adding a crisp texture to the meal.

For a more traditional Iraqi experience, locals often serve this dish on large trays, encouraging communal eating with family and friends. The simplicity of the ingredients makes it easy to prepare for large gatherings, especially during holidays or family celebrations.

Approach for Continued Engagement

This article avoids a traditional conclusion to maintain engagement with readers and encourage exploration of other articles on visitiraqnow.com. Whether you're planning a trip to Iraq or are simply curious about its cuisine, we invite you to explore more of Iraq’s rich culinary traditions through our website.