Cuisine : Machboos - how this middle east dish is prepared

 

Machboos, also known as Kabsa, is a traditional Middle Eastern dish, particularly popular in Arabian Gulf countries. It's a flavorful rice dish typically made with basmati rice, meat (usually chicken, lamb, or goat), and a blend of aromatic spices. Here's a basic preparation:

Ingredients:

1. 2 cups basmati rice

2. 500g meat (chicken, lamb, or goat)

3. 1 large onion, chopped

4. 3 tomatoes, chopped

5. 4 cloves of garlic, minced

6. 3 tablespoons Machboos spice blend (coriander, cumin, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom)

7. 2 bay leaves

8. 4 cups chicken or beef broth

9. 1/4 cup vegetable oil

10. Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 15-30 minutes.

2. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion in vegetable oil until golden brown.

3. Add the meat and cook until browned on all sides.

4. Stir in the minced garlic and Machboos spice blend, cooking for a couple of minutes.

5. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften.

6. Pour in the broth, add bay leaves, and season with salt. Bring it to a boil.

7. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pot. Stir gently.

8. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the flavors (usually 20-30 minutes).

9. Once done, fluff the rice with a fork and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Machboos is often garnished with fried onions, raisins, and chopped cilantro or parsley. Enjoy your meal!