Harees Is Now Inscribed On 2023 UNESCO Representative List Of Intangible Cultural Heritage For Humanity

During the 18th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, UNESCO revealed a Representative list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity for 2023. Yes, the session which took place at Cresta Mowana Resort in Kasane, Republic of Botswana happened from December 4 to 9. And it revealed that Harees, a highly popular Arabic dish has now made it to the list as well.

Harees Inscribed In Representative List Of The Intangible Cultural Heritage Of Humanity 2023

 

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Al-Harees, which is a popular dish not just in UAE but other Middle Eastern countries has now been inscribed in the 2023 UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage for Humanity. Led by the UAE in partnership with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Sultanate of Oman, this is the 15th element that has been inscribed in UNESCO. Not to mention, it also strengthens the Gulf, Arab, and international endeavours for showcasing a shared human heritage while also announcing cultural foundations.

As it happens, besides the popular Emirati dish, several other additions have been made to this list. Some of these include –

• Rotterdam Summer Carnival – the Netherlands
• Traditional Knowledge and Skills of Production of the Atlas and Adras Fabric – Tajikistan
• Sango Festival – Oyo, Nigeria
• Dabekh Traditional Dance in Palestine – Palestine
• Aklan Piña Handloom Weaving – The Philippines
• Procession and Celebrations of Prophet Mohammad’s Birthday in Sudan – Sudan
• Alpine Pasture Season – Switzerland
• Art of Akhal-Teke Horse Breeding and Tradition of Horses’ Decoration – Turkmenistan
• Tradition of Blacksmithing in Gyumri – Armenia
• Traditional Craft Skills and Arts of Al-Mudhif building – Iraq
• Arts, Skills, and Practises associated with engraving on Metals (like gold, silver, and copper) – Algeria, Egypt, Iraq, Mauritania, Morocco, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Siddhant, Tunisia, and Yemen

A Glimpse Into The Dish & When Is It Prepared

Coming back to Al-Harees, for those who aren’t aware, this is a popular traditional dish which is made from wheat grain, meat, and clarified butter or ghee. Generally consumed during breakfast and dinner, it is made in large quantities, as it is time-consuming and requires a lot of effort to clean and grind the grain. Generally served in large dishes, they’re shared by several people and usually eaten using the thumb and forefinger.

At this point, it is worth mentioning that even though it is prepared for many occasions, people generally enjoy this dish during Ramadan or when honouring guests. Preparing the dish is seen as a sign of hospitality and generosity, which means it also promotes social connection. In case you’re wondering, preparing harees at home even though time-consuming can be quite a fulfilling affair.

Also Read: Shahid Afridi Plans To Treat Sachin Tendulkar With Pathan-Style Dishes At Lala Darbar, Dubai

How To Make Harees At Home?

Here’s a look at the recipe of how you can make harees at home as shown by Tasty Kitchen Corner. Although the method is quite intimidating and time-consuming, one must know that in order to begin the recipe, you must have the (limited) ingredients that one uses for preparing this traditional Arabic dish.

So, go ahead and celebrate this fantastic development by preparing harees at home for your loved ones.

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva

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