Ingredients

4 1/2 cups water
650 g basmati rice
3 tomatoes , quartered
1 - 1 1/2 kg chicken
3 onions , finely chopped
1/4 cup coriander leaves , chopped
1 green hot pepper , as desired
2 black dried limes
2 teaspoons baharat spice mix
1 1/2 teaspoons turmeric powder
1 teaspoon cumin powder
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 teaspoon cardamom powder
2 garlic cloves
1 slice gingerroot , cut into small pieces
3 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup lemon juice
3 tablespoons rose water
3 tablespoons oil
3 teaspoons salt
Traditional Bahraini Chicken Machboos - Machbous is a popular dish in the Middle East, specifically in Bahrain and is known as the national dish of Bahrain. It is a flavorful dish that is made with basmati rice, chicken, and traditional Middle Eastern spices. The dish is cooked in a large pot, allowing all of the spices to meld together resulting in a rich and hearty flavor. While there are many different variations of Machboos, the Bahraini version includes the use of a whole chicken, dried limes, and rose water. The dish is typically served during special occasions, such as weddings and holidays but can also be enjoyed as a comforting meal at home. Traditional Bahraini Chicken Machboos - Machbous is best enjoyed with a side of vegetable salad, cucumber yogurt sauce, or pickled vegetables.

Instructions

1.Rinse the basmati rice with cold water and soak it for 20 minutes.
2.In a large pot, heat up the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they become translucent.
3.Add the chicken and season with baharat spice mix, turmeric powder, cumin powder, cinnamon, cardamom powder, garlic, ginger, and salt. Stir to coat the chicken with the spices and cook for 5 minutes.
4.Add the quartered tomatoes, dried limes, and hot pepper, and mix until well combined. Pour in the water, bring to a boil, and reduce the heat to a simmer.
5.Cook the chicken for about 45 minutes or until it is tender and fully cooked.
6.Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside. Add the soaked basmati rice to the pot along with the lemon juice, butter, and coriander leaves. Stir to combine and bring to a boil. Once it's boiling, reduce the heat and cover the pot with a lid.
7.Cook the rice for approximately 20 to 25 minutes or until fully cooked and fluffy.
8.Once the rice is ready, add the rose water and stir to combine. Place the cooked chicken on top of the rice, cover it with a lid, and leave it to steam for about 10 minutes.
9.Serve the delicious Traditional Bahraini Chicken Machboos - Machbous hot and enjoy!

PROS

Traditional Bahraini Chicken Machboos – Machbous is a hearty and flavorful Middle Eastern dish that is perfect for lunch or dinner.

The dish is rich in flavor and spices that have various health benefits.

CONS

Traditional Bahraini Chicken Machboos – Machbous is a high-calorie dish due to the basmati rice and the use of a whole chicken that may not be suitable for those on a low-calorie diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Traditional Bahraini Chicken Machboos – Machbous has many health benefits. Turmeric, cinnamon, and cardamom are spices that have anti-inflammatory properties and can help boost the immune system.
Coriander leaves have antioxidants, can help lower blood pressure, and prevent infections. Chicken is a great source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles and tissues in the body.
Basmati rice is a complex carbohydrate and helps to provide energy for the body. It is also rich in thiamin, niacin and vitamin B6.

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