Authentic Arabian Madhbi Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients

  • 1 kg of bone-in chicken pieces
  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon of ground coriander
  • 1 tablespoon of ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon of turmeric
  • 1 tablespoon of paprika
  • 1 tablespoon of black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon of salt
  • 4 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 inch of fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 cup of plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup of water

Steps and instructions

  1. Clean the chicken thoroughly and pat dry with a paper towel.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the ground coriander, cumin, turmeric, paprika, black pepper, and salt.
  3. In a separate large bowl, combine the minced garlic, grated ginger, yogurt, and lemon juice. Add the spice mix to the yogurt mixture and stir well.
  4. Add the chicken pieces to the yogurt and spices mixture. Coat the chicken well with the marinade. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible.
  5. Heat the vegetable oil in a large heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.
  6. Add the marinated chicken to the pan along with the marinade. Let it cook on a medium heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Add the water, cover the pan, and let it simmer for another 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors are well combined.
  8. Once the chicken is done, remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tools for making

  • Cutting board - Used for preparing ingredients and cutting chicken.
  • Knife - Essential for cutting and chopping ingredients.
  • Mixing bowl - Used to combine the spices, yogurt, and lemon juice for the marinade.
  • Large heavy-bottomed pan - Needed for cooking the chicken and simmering it with the marinade.
  • Spatula or wooden spoon - Used for stirring and flipping the chicken while cooking.
  • Measuring spoons - Needed for accurately measuring the spices, oil, and lemon juice.
  • Grater - Used to grate fresh ginger.
  • Small bowl - Used for mixing the spices together before adding them to the yogurt mixture.
  • Paper towel - Needed to pat dry the chicken before marinating.
  • Refrigerator - Required for marinating the chicken.

Recipe variations

  • Use boneless chicken pieces instead of bone-in for a quicker cooking time.
  • Try using different spices or spice blends to customize the flavor, such as garam masala, chili powder, or curry powder.
  • For a spicier version, add diced green chilies or red pepper flakes.
  • Experiment with different types of yogurt, like Greek yogurt or flavored yogurt, to add a unique twist to the marinade.
  • Add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or tomatoes to the dish for added color and flavor.
  • If you prefer a meat-free option, substitute the chicken with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) or tofu.
  • Grill the marinated chicken instead of cooking it in a pan for a smoky flavor.
  • Serve Madhbi with a side of rice, naan bread, or roti for a complete meal.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro, mint leaves, or a squeeze of lime juice for extra freshness.

Recipe overview

Madhbi is a traditional Arabian dish enjoyed in many Middle Eastern countries. The star of this recipe is bone-in chicken pieces marinated in aromatic spices and yogurt, which are then slow-cooked to perfection. With robust flavors of coriander, cumin, turmeric, and paprika combined with the tangy notes of yogurt and lemon, Madhbi is sure to be a treat for your tastebuds. The process involves marinating the chicken for a few hours or ideally overnight, then cooking it slowly with onions in a pan. Serve this flavor-packed chicken with rice or bread for a complete meal. You're in for a delicious culinary adventure when making Madhbi, a dish that's as enjoyable to prepare as it is to devour.

Common questions

  1. How long should I marinate the chicken? - It is recommended to marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible.
  2. Can I use boneless chicken instead of bone-in chicken? - Yes, you can use boneless chicken pieces if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly as boneless chicken tends to cook faster.
  3. Can I use a different type of meat? - While Madhbi is traditionally made with chicken, you can certainly try using other meats like lamb or beef. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the type of meat you choose.
  4. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt? - Yes, you can use Greek yogurt as a substitute for plain yogurt in this recipe.
  5. What can I serve with Madhbi? - Madhbi is often served with rice, flatbread, or salad. You can also pair it with your favorite side dishes or condiments.
  6. How spicy is Madhbi? - The level of spiciness can be adjusted by adding more or less black pepper and paprika according to your taste preferences.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing bowl - A large bowl to mix the marinade and coat the chicken.
  • Small bowl - A smaller bowl to mix the spices before adding them to the marinade.
  • Heavy-bottomed pan - A large, sturdy pan to cook the chicken and simmer the dish.
  • Paper towel - To pat dry the chicken before marinating.
  • Spatula - To stir the chicken and marinade while cooking.
  • Knife - To finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
  • Grater - To grate fresh ginger.
  • Measuring spoons - To accurately measure the spices, lemon juice, and oil.
  • Cover or lid - To cover the pan while simmering the chicken.

Origin stories

In the arid plains and bustling cities of Yemen, a mouthwatering dish known as Madhbi is revered. This traditional Yemeni dish, simple yet bursting with an array of flavors, has a long-standing history closely intertwined with the nomadic Bedouin lifestyle. Historically, it was prepared using a special technique where meat was slow-cooked on flat stones placed over a fire, lending it a distinct, smokey flavour that truly encapsulated the essence of the desert. This unique method of preparation is what gave the dish its name, 'Madhbi', which translates to 'flattened'. Over the years, the recipe has traveled far beyond the borders of Yemen, winning hearts with its savory charm and reminding us of the rich culinary legacy of the Arabian peninsula.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.