International kitchen

Shitha

Shitha is a traditional spicy sauce commonly found in Arabian and Gulf cuisines, especially in countries like Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar. It is typically served as a condiment with rice dishes such as kabsa and mandi.

Shitha prepared recipe
PrepNot statedCookFollow stepsServesFlexibleLevelHome cook
Cook with confidence

Before you start

A quick setup makes the method easier to follow and keeps important steps from being missed.

Preparation checklist

  • Read all 7 method steps from beginning to end.
  • Measure and arrange all 6 listed ingredients.
  • Keep the recipe open and follow each step in order; the source does not state a total time.

Recipe notes & preparation tips

For a smoother sauce, blend the mixture after cooking.

Adjust the amount of chili to suit your spice tolerance.

For a richer taste, roast the tomatoes before adding them.

You can store shitha in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Adapted from the source recipe's notes.
Step by step

Method

  1. 01

    Heat the oil in a small pan over medium heat.

  2. 02

    Add minced garlic and sauté until golden.

  3. 03

    Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften.

  4. 04

    Add chile powder and salt. Stir well.

  5. 05

    Simmer for 10–15 minutes until the mixture thickens.

  6. 06

    Add lemon juice or vinegar if desired for extra tanginess.

  7. 07

    Let it cool before serving.

Ready to serve

Serve the dish as directed and enjoy it while it is at its best.

Bon appétit — enjoy your meal!
Transparent sourcing

Source & licence

This recipe was adapted and reformatted from Wikibooks Cookbook . Text: CC BY-SA 4.0. Image: CC BY-SA 4.0, credited to Slothtysloth; view original image record .