Majboos (Spiced Rice with Meat)

Experience the fragrant and flavorful taste of Middle Eastern cuisine with Majboos, a classic dish from the Gulf region. Combining aromatic spices, tender meat, and perfectly cooked rice, Majboos is a comforting and hearty meal perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.

Ingredients

• 2 cups basmati rice
• 500g chicken, lamb, or beef, cut into pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 carrot, grated (optional)
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground black lime (or substitute with lemon zest)
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups chicken or beef broth
• Salt to taste
• Handful of chopped fresh coriander or parsley for garnish
• Optional: fried nuts and raisins for topping

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat

   Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until golden and fragrant. Add the meat pieces and brown them on all sides.

2. Add Spices and Vegetables

   Stir in cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, black lime, and black pepper. Add the chopped tomatoes and grated carrot (if using), cooking until the tomatoes soften and the spices release their aroma.

3. Cook the Rice

   Rinse the rice thoroughly and drain. Add the rice to the pot with the meat and spices, stirring gently to combine. Pour in the broth, season with salt, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

4. Serve

   Transfer Majboos to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped fresh coriander or parsley. Optionally, sprinkle with fried nuts and raisins for added texture and sweetness.

Serving

Serve Majboos hot with yogurt, salad, or pickles on the side. The rich combination of spices, tender meat, and fluffy rice makes this dish a centerpiece for any meal, evoking the traditional flavors of the Gulf region.