Haleem

Haleem

South Asian Dubai • Dubai

185
KCAL
12
PROTEIN (G)
18
CARBS (G)
7
FAT (G)
Data source: DubaiCalorie
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About Haleem

Wheat, lentils and meat slow-cooked to a thick stew.

How to Make Haleem
Traditional + healthy version with step-by-step photos · 35 min total · 2 servings
View full recipe →

How to Make Haleem (Traditional & Healthy Version)

Prep: 15 min
Cook: 20 min
2 servings
Medium

Haleem is a cherished dish in Dubai’s culinary landscape, renowned for its rich texture and deeply satisfying flavors. This wholesome stew, beloved at Ramadan iftars, hotel restaurants, and bustling business lunches, blends slow-cooked meat, wheat, lentils, and aromatic spices into a nourishing meal. In Dubai, haleem is not only a seasonal favorite during suhoor and iftar, but also a mainstay at gatherings, reflecting the city’s embrace of both tradition and modern health-conscious living. Dubai’s haleem stands out for its subtle Emirati spices and refined preparation, often served alongside Levantine mezze and karak tea in vibrant beach clubs or sophisticated hotel lounges. The dish offers a creamy, porridge-like consistency, balancing protein-rich meat with fiber-filled grains. Its comforting warmth and satisfying taste have made it a modern classic among locals and visitors alike, especially for those seeking a nutritious yet authentic taste of Dubai’s food culture. This recipe delivers a lighter, healthier version without compromising on flavor, making it perfect for calorie-conscious food lovers.

Diabetic-Friendly Weight Loss Kid-Friendly Vegan Adaptable
Allergens: gluten

Ingredients(for 1 medium bowl (approx. 350g) per person)

  • 200g Boneless lean beef or chicken breast (Cut into small cubes)
  • 1/3 cup Whole wheat grains (Soaked overnight (habb al ghand))
  • 1/4 cup Yellow split lentils (Soaked 1 hour)
  • 2 tbsp Rolled oats (For creaminess)
  • 1 small Onion (Finely chopped)
  • 2 cloves Garlic (Minced)
  • 1 tsp Fresh ginger (Grated)
  • 1/2 tsp Ground cumin (Camelia)
  • 1/2 tsp Ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp Garam masala
  • 1/4 tsp Turmeric powder
  • 2 cups Low-sodium chicken stock
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil (For sautéing)
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black pepper
  • 1 tbsp Fresh coriander leaves (Chopped, for garnish) - optional
  • 2 Lemon wedges (For serving) - optional

Instructions

  1. 1

    Soak the whole wheat grains overnight and yellow split lentils for one hour before cooking to soften and reduce cooking time.

    Overnight + 1 hour

    Soaking enhances digestibility and nutrient absorption.

  2. 2

    Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot. Add chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.

    3 minutes

    Cook onions slowly to bring out their natural sweetness.

  3. 3

    Add minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for another minute until fragrant.

    1 minute

    Stir constantly to prevent burning and ensure even flavor.

  4. 4

    Add the cubed beef or chicken, and cook until lightly browned on all sides.

    4 minutes

    Use lean cuts to keep the dish light and healthy.

Why This Dish is Healthy

This Dubai-style haleem is a healthy choice because it emphasizes whole grains, lean protein, and minimal oil. The use of lentils and oats adds plant-based fiber and reduces overall fat content. By avoiding excess ghee and using low-sodium stock, the recipe supports heart health and weight management. It’s an excellent meal for sustained energy, perfect for fasting during Ramadan or as a wholesome lunch option.

Haleem is a nutritional powerhouse, providing a balanced mix of lean protein from chicken or beef, complex carbohydrates from wheat and lentils, and dietary fiber that aids digestion. The dish is low in saturated fat when prepared with lean meat and olive oil, and it’s rich in B vitamins, iron, and magnesium. Spices like turmeric and ginger offer anti-inflammatory properties, while oats contribute additional fiber and heart-healthy nutrients. Each serving is filling yet relatively low in calories, making it suitable for those mindful of their diet.

Pro Tips

  • 💡Tip 1: Soak grains and lentils to speed up cooking and enhance texture.
  • 💡Tip 2: For extra creaminess, blend half the mixture and mix back in.
  • 💡Tip 3: Garnish with fresh coriander and lemon just before serving for vibrant flavor.

Storage & Serving

Store leftover haleem in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to restore creaminess.

Best served: Breakfast or Lunch

Nutrition Facts

NutrientPer 100g
Energy185.0 kcal
Protein12.0 g
Carbohydrates18.0 g
Total Fat7.0 g
Fiber3.0 g

Cultural Notes

Haleem is a DubaiCalorie priority food for Dubai dining, UAE portions and local lifestyle tracking.

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