Authentic Mandi Recipe

 Authentic Mandi Recipe: A Traditional Yemeni & Arabian Dish

Introduction:

Mandi is a famous Middle Eastern dish that originated in Yemen and is widely popular across Saudi Arabia and the Arabian Peninsula. This flavorful dish consists of fragrant basmati rice, tender slow-cooked meat (usually lamb or chicken), and a unique blend of Arabic spices. Traditional Mandi is known for its smoky aroma and rich taste, making it a must-try dish for lovers of authentic Middle Eastern Kitchen.

Ingredients:

For the Meat:

• 1 kg lamb or chicken, cut into large pieces
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground cardamom
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Rice:

• 2 cups basmati rice, washed and soaked for 30 minutes
• 4 cups chicken or lamb broth
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 3 cardamom pods
• 3 cloves
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 tbsp ghee or butter
• ½ tsp saffron (optional, for color)

For the Smoked Flavor (Optional):

• 1 small piece of charcoal
• 1 tsp ghee or butter

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

1. In a bowl, mix salt, black pepper, coriander, turmeric, paprika, cumin, cardamom, garlic, and lemon juice.
2. Rub this spice mixture over the meat and let it marinate for at least 1 hour.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pot and sear the meat until golden brown.
4. Add 4 cups of water, bring to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until the meat is tender.
5. Once cooked, remove the meat and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

6. In a separate large pot, melt the ghee and sauté the chopped onions until golden.
7. Add the cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, and bay leaves. Stir for a minute until fragrant.
8. Pour in the broth from the cooked meat and bring to a boil.
9. Add the soaked basmati rice and saffron (if using). Reduce heat, cover, and cook for 20 minutes until the rice is fully cooked and fluffy.

Step 3: Add the Smoked Flavor (Optional but Recommended)

10. Heat a small piece of charcoal over direct flame until red hot.
11. Place the hot charcoal in a small foil cup in the center of the pot of rice.
12. Add a spoonful of ghee or butter over the charcoal and immediately cover the pot. Let it sit for 5 minutes to absorb the smoky flavor.

Step 4: Assemble & Serve

13. Fluff the rice and place the cooked meat on top.
14. Garnish with toasted almonds, raisins, or fried onions (optional).
15. Serve hot with yogurt, shatta (spicy sauce), or Arabic salad.

Tips for Perfect Mandi:

• Use high-quality basmati rice for the best fluffy texture.
• Slow-cook the meat to achieve tenderness and deep flavor.
• For an authentic taste, always add a smoky element using charcoal.
• Adjust the spices to suit your personal preference.

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