In the Middle East, weekends fall on Fridays and Saturdays. On Fridays, Muslims the world over offer the very special ‘jumma’ prayer, and this is traditionally followed by a lavish lunch with the family.

Biryani, a decadent rice pilaf layered with succulently spiced meat, tends to be a Friday lunch favorite.

My dear friend Sana Wahid makes the most delicious Yakhni Pulao, and has agreed to share her family’s secret recipe with us.