Ingredients

2 lbs lean lamb
1/2 cup clarified butter ( use samna or ghee if available , or make your clarified butter , see clarified butter note )
salt
pepper
1 medium onion , finely chopped
4 cups plain Greek yogurt
1 egg white
1 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon coriander ( see spices note below )
1 1/2 teaspoons cumin
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cardamom
1/2 cup whole blanched almond
1/2 cup pine nuts
4 -6 loaves pita bread ( khubz , Arabic pita-type bread is used in Jordan )
3 cups rice , raw measure , cooked ( Jasmine med grain or Basmati is good )
parsley or chives , chopped for garnish
Jordanian Mansaf is the national dish of Jordan, and it is a beloved meal throughout the Middle East. Traditionally, it is served on special occasions such as weddings and holidays, and it is often eaten communally with the whole family gathered around the same dish. The combination of lamb, yogurt, and rice is a classic Middle Eastern flavor profile, and the addition of toasted almonds and pine nuts provides a satisfying crunch and nuttiness to the dish. This recipe is a great way to experience Jordanian cuisine and to bring a taste of the Middle East to your dinner table.

Instructions

1.In a large pot, brown the lamb in clarified butter over medium heat.
2.Add enough water to cover the lamb, season with salt and pepper, and let it simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the meat is tender.
3.Remove the lamb from the pot and set it aside.
4.In the same pot, sauté the onion until it is soft and translucent.
5.Add the lamb back to the pot, along with the cooked rice.
6.In a separate bowl, mix the yogurt, egg white, and spices together.
7.Pour the yogurt mixture over the lamb and rice, and let it simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until well combined and heated through.
8.Toast the almonds and pine nuts in a separate skillet over medium heat, stirring continuously, until they are golden brown.
9.To serve, place the lamb and rice mixture on a large platter and sprinkle the toasted nuts over the top. Serve with pita bread on the side.

PROS

Jordanian Mansaf is a delicious and hearty meal that is perfect for family gatherings and special occasions.

The combination of tender lamb, creamy yogurt, and fragrant spices makes for a flavorful and satisfying dish.

CONS

This recipe requires a bit of time and effort to prepare, so it may not be suitable for a quick weeknight meal.

Additionally, this dish is quite heavy and high in calories, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While Jordanian Mansaf may not be the healthiest meal, it does contain several beneficial ingredients.
The lamb provides protein and essential vitamins and minerals, while the yogurt is a good source of probiotics and calcium.
The dish also contains healthy fats from the clarified butter and nuts, as well as fiber from the rice.

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