Name: Freekeh with Meat: Authentic Syrian Freekeh Pilaf
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 cup freekah; 2.5 cups broth ((or water)); 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 1/2 tsp salt; 3/4 cup frozen green peas; 1/2 cup pine nuts and/or slivered almonds (optional); ½ pound lamb or beef stew pieces

Have you tried freekeh (pronounced free-keh) grain before? Read on to learn more about this ancient grain and discover an authentic way of preparing this common Middle Eastern food.

What is Freekeh Ancient Grain

Freekeh is an ancient whole grain common in Middle Eastern cuisine. Freekeh is basically wheat kernels that have been harvested while still green or ‘young’. The kernels are roasted, dried and rubbed resulting in tiny whole grains referred to as freekeh. When cooked it has a chewy nutty flavor. It is often prepared as a pilaf or can be added to soups and salads. Syrian freekeh is a main meal pilaf and is cooked with lamb stew and decorated with green peas, pine nuts and almonds. Scroll down for the authentic Syrian freekeh recipe.

Freekeh Ancient Grain Nutrition

Nutritionally speaking, freekeh is a powerhouse of nutrients. Freekeh is:

Good source of fiber, providing 4 grams of fiber per 1/2 cup cooked freekeh
High in protein, providing 8 grams of protein per 1/2 cup cooked freekeh
Rich source of manganese, magnesium, and phosphorous
A whole grain, providing fiber, B vitamins and antioxidants specifically lutein and zeaxanthin

How to Cook Freekeh

Freekeh is cooked similar to rice. However freekeh can contain small pebbles or dirt so it’s very important that you sort the freekeh and rinse it well. For every cup of freekeh, you will need 2.5 cups of broth or water. Cook on medium heat for 20-25 minutes until it is tender.

Where to Buy Freekeh

With the popularity of freekeh these days, many stores carry this whole grain. You can find freekeh in Middle Eastern stores, whole foods stores, health food stores or online.