How to Make a Refreshing Arabic Yakhni Recipe with Green Peas

Yakhni, a popular dish in Middle Eastern and South Asian cuisine, is a fragrant broth-based recipe that brings comfort and nourishment to every meal. Known for its simplicity and wholesome ingredients, yakhni has evolved over time into a versatile dish with many variations. One such variation, an Arabic yakhni recipe made with green peas, is a light yet hearty meal perfect for any occasion. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make yakhni, while highlighting its nutritional benefits, especially when prepared with organic frozen green peas.

What is Yakhni?

Yakhni is essentially a broth or stock, often flavoured with aromatic spices, herbs, and sometimes yoghurt. Its history dates back centuries, with roots in ancient Persia and the surrounding regions. Today, it is beloved across the Middle East and South Asia, where it has taken on various forms depending on local ingredients and traditions.

A traditional Arabic yakhni recipe typically involves simmering meat, usually chicken or lamb, with a blend of spices and vegetables. The broth is then strained, and the tender meat is added back in, often accompanied by rice or bread. Yakhni is particularly popular during colder months, thanks to its warming properties, but its lighter versions, like a yakhni recipe with green peas, can be enjoyed all year round.

Why Green Peas?

Green peas are not only a vibrant addition to yakhni but are also packed with nutritional benefits. These little legumes are a great source of plant-based protein, fibre, and essential vitamins like Vitamin C and K. They add a slightly sweet flavour to the dish, balancing out the savoury elements of the broth. When you use organic frozen green peas, you’re also ensuring that your meal is free from harmful chemicals and pesticides, making it a healthy choice for your family.

Now, let’s dive into how to make yakhni with green peas, creating a dish that’s both refreshing and nutritious.

Ingredients for Arabic Yakhni Recipe with Green Peas

For this recipe, we’ll be using ingredients that are easy to find and wholesome. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 500g chicken (preferably bone-in for a richer broth)

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced

• 2 bay leaves

• 4-5 whole black peppercorns

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 2-3 cardamom pods

• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

• 1 teaspoon coriander powder

• 1 cup organic frozen green peas

• 4 cups water or chicken stock

• Salt to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions for Making Yakhni with Green Peas

1. Prepare the Chicken: Start by washing the chicken pieces thoroughly and setting them aside. If you’re using bone-in chicken, this will enhance the flavour of the broth, giving the yakhni a rich depth.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter for a few seconds. Then, add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. Add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Add the Spices: Toss in the bay leaves, black peppercorns, cinnamon stick, and cardamom pods. Let these whole spices release their flavours for about a minute before adding the coriander powder.

4. Cook the Chicken: Now, add the chicken pieces to the pot. Sear them on all sides until they are lightly browned. This step helps lock in the flavour of the meat.

5. Simmer the Yakhni: Pour in the water or chicken stock, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chicken simmer for about 30 minutes. This slow cooking process is key to extracting the flavours from the chicken and spices.

6. Add the Green Peas: Once the chicken is fully cooked, stir in the organic frozen green peas. These peas don’t need long to cook, so let them simmer for about 5-7 minutes. The peas will add a lovely sweetness and a pop of colour to the dish.

7. Season and Garnish: Taste the yakhni and adjust the salt as needed. Once done, remove the pot from the heat. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Why Organic Ingredients Matter

Using organic frozen green peas in this yakhni recipe ensures that you are serving the purest, healthiest ingredients. Organic produce is grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilisers, preserving the natural nutrients and reducing exposure to harmful chemicals. When you buy from a trusted organic grocery store, you are not only making a healthier choice but also supporting sustainable farming practices that protect the environment.

For this reason, I highly recommend sourcing your ingredients from a reliable organic grocery store like Originz, where you can find high-quality, responsibly farmed products. Incorporating organic ingredients into your meals is a small step towards healthier living, and this yakhni recipe is the perfect place to start.

A Refreshing Twist on Traditional Yakhni

This yakhni recipe with green peas is a lighter, refreshing version of the traditional Arabic dish, making it ideal for those who prefer a more plant-based, vegetable-forward meal. The green peas provide a burst of sweetness that balances the savoury richness of the broth, while the spices add depth and warmth.

To explore more delicious recipes like this, visit Originz's recipe page, which is full of healthy, organic meal ideas to inspire your cooking.

FAQs

Can I make yakhni without meat?

Yes, you can easily adapt this Arabic yakhni recipe to a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or even lentils. The flavour will remain rich due to the spices and aromatics.

How long can I store yakhni in the fridge?

Yakhni can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, simply store it in freezer-safe containers, where it will last for up to 3 months.

Further Read,

•  Easy Recipes for Restaurant-Quality Butter Chicken at Home
•  Middle Eastern Lasagna Recipes to Impress Your Dinner Guests
• How to Make Chicken Shawarma At Home