Dates have been grown in Bahrain for thousands of years — the date palm is one of the most important trees in the whole Arabian world. In muhammar, date syrup is stirred through the cooked rice, turning it golden and giving it a deep, caramel-like sweetness. Cardamom, saffron and rose water add layers of fragrance.
The name 'muhammar' in Arabic means 'reddened' or 'browned', which describes the way the rice takes on a warm golden hue. When the dish is cooked correctly, the bottom of the pot develops a crunchy layer of rice called the 'crust' — this is considered the most delicious part, and family members often compete to get a piece.
Muhammar is served at family meals and gatherings, usually beside a plate of fried hammour or kingfish. The contrast of the sweet rice and the crispy, savoury fish is wonderful. A squeeze of lime juice over both brings everything together.
Dates are full of natural energy and have been eaten in this region since ancient times. Date palms were so valuable that they were counted and protected carefully. Today Bahrain still grows several traditional varieties of date, and their syrup remains a key ingredient in the country's cooking.