Gursan, a beloved traditional dish from Saudi Arabia, is a hearty meat and vegetable stew that showcases the country’s rich culinary heritage. Originating from the Najd region, this comforting dish features tender lamb or chicken simmered with a vibrant mix of vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, and carrots, all infused with aromatic spices. The highlight is the paper-thin sheets of whole wheat bread, layered into the stew to soak up the flavorful broth, resulting in a thick, nourishing meal perfect for sharing. Let’s walk through this step-by-step recipe to bring the authentic taste of Saudi Gursan to your table.
Ingredients
For the Stew
- 1 lb (450g) boneless lamb or chicken, cut into chunks
- 2 large onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 dried lemon (or 1 tbsp lemon juice)
- 1 whole green chili (optional)
- 8 cups (2 liters) water or broth
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
For the Vegetables
- 1 small eggplant, cut into large chunks
- 1 cup pumpkin, cubed
- 2 medium zucchini, cut into large chunks
- 1 medium potato, cubed
- 1 cup carrots, cut into large chunks
- 1/2 cup green beans, trimmed
For the Bread
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup water (adjust as needed)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
For Garnish
- 1 tbsp fried onions (optional)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
Equipment Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Rolling pin
- Mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Wooden spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour and salt. Gradually add water and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, kneading until a soft, smooth dough forms (about 5-7 minutes). The dough should be pliable but not sticky; adjust with extra flour or water if necessary. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 20 minutes while you start the stew.
Step 2: Build the Stew Base
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden and soft. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the diced tomatoes and tomato paste, cooking for 2-3 minutes until they form a thick base.
Step 3: Cook the Meat
Add the lamb or chicken chunks to the pot, stirring to coat them in the tomato mixture. Sprinkle in the turmeric, cumin, coriander, black pepper, cinnamon, and dried lemon. Season with salt to taste. Pour in 8 cups of water or broth, ensuring the meat is covered. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 1-1.5 hours (for lamb) or 45 minutes (for chicken) until the meat is tender.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
Once the meat is tender, add the eggplant, pumpkin, zucchini, potato, carrots, and green beans to the pot. If using a whole green chili, add it now for a mild heat. Stir gently, adding more water if needed to cover the vegetables. Simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and the broth reduces slightly.
Step 5: Shape and Cook the Bread
Divide the rested dough into 4 portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion into a thin, round sheet (about 1-2 mm thick). Cut the dough into medium-sized pieces (2-3 inch squares or strips). Gently place the bread pieces into the simmering stew, layering them in to soak up the broth. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bread is tender and fully infused with flavor.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
Remove the dried lemon and whole chili (if used) from the pot. In a deep serving bowl, create layers: start with a layer of bread pieces, then spoon some stew with vegetables and meat over it. Repeat the layers until the bowl is full, finishing with a top layer of meat and vegetables. Garnish with fried onions and chopped cilantro or parsley. Serve hot, traditionally shared family-style with spoons or bread on the side.
Tips for Success
- Meat Choice: Lamb adds a deeper flavor, while chicken offers a lighter option. Bone-in cuts can enhance the broth if preferred.
- Bread Texture: Roll the dough as thin as possible for an authentic Gursan texture; thicker pieces may not absorb the broth as well.
- Vegetable Variations: Substitute with okra, peas, or bell peppers based on availability, keeping the chunky cut style.
- Make Ahead: The stew can be prepared a day in advance and reheated, with bread added just before serving for freshness.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Approx. 1.5 Cups)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 14g (4g saturated)
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 7g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Key Nutrients: High in protein from meat, fiber from whole wheat bread and vegetables, and vitamins A and C from carrots and pumpkin.
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (including dough resting)
- Cook Time: 2-2.5 hours
- Total Time: ~2.5-3 hours
- Servings: 6
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Gursan is a soul-warming dish that embodies the generosity and tradition of Saudi Arabian cuisine. The combination of tender meat, vibrant vegetables, and bread soaked in spiced broth creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Its hearty nature and adaptable ingredients make it a versatile favorite, while the communal serving style fosters a sense of togetherness. Whether you’re new to Saudi flavors or a seasoned cook, this Gursan recipe is a delightful way to explore the region’s culinary heritage.Savor the Taste of Saudi TraditionMaking Gursan at home is a journey into the heart of Saudi Arabia’s food culture, where simple ingredients transform into a dish of profound comfort and flavor. The slow simmering process and layering technique highlight the care put into every bite, making it a true labor of love. Gather your loved ones, embrace the rich aromas, and enjoy a taste of Saudi hospitality with this traditional Gursan stew
