Saudi Arabian Mandi Recipe

Mandi, a flavorful and aromatic dish, has its roots in Yemen but is now a beloved staple across Saudi Arabia and the Middle East. This slow-cooked delicacy, typically made with rice, meat (usually lamb or chicken), and a unique blend of spices, is an enchanting culinary journey that begins the moment it starts cooking. Follow this recipe to bring the flavors of Saudi Arabia into your own kitchen.

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Ingredients:

• 1 kg lamb or chicken
• 2 cups basmati rice
• 4 onions, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 4 dried limes (loomi)
• 1 tablespoon turmeric
• 1 tablespoon coriander powder
• 1 tablespoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt to taste
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cups water (or as needed)
• A handful of toasted almonds and raisins for garnish

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Meat: In a bowl, combine the meat, turmeric, coriander, cumin, black pepper, and salt. Mix until the meat is well-coated with the spices. Cover the bowl and leave it to marinate for at least an hour.
2. Cook the Meat: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until they are golden brown. Add the marinated meat and brown it on all sides. Once browned, add the chopped tomatoes and dried limes, then cover with water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer until the meat is tender (approximately 1-2 hours).
3. Prepare the Rice: While the meat is cooking, rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps to keep the rice grains separate.
4. Combine the Meat and Rice: Once the meat is tender, add the rinsed rice to the pot. Add water if needed, ensuring that there is about 1 inch of water above the rice level. Cover and cook on low heat until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed (approximately 20-30 minutes).

5. Serve the Mandi: Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains. Transfer the rice and meat to a serving dish, garnish with toasted almonds and raisins, and serve hot. For an authentic experience, serve your Mandi with a side of fresh salad and yogurt.

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In Conclusion

Enjoy the rich, savory flavors of this traditional Saudi Arabian Mandi, a dish that, though it requires patience, rewards you with a symphony of flavors that’s well worth the wait.

Please note: The ingredients and cooking times listed in this recipe are approximations and may need to be adjusted to personal taste or cooking conditions. Cooking is an art, so feel free to experiment with the quantities to get your Mandi just right!