Authentic Yemeni Chicken Mandhi Recipe

Ingredients

2 cups of Basmati rice
1 kg of chicken pieces
2 large onions, finely chopped
6 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons of Mandhi spice mix
1 tablespoon of turmeric powder
1 tablespoon of black lemon powder
1 tablespoon of black pepper
1 tablespoon of salt
4 cups of water
2 tablespoons of oil
1/2 cup of raisins
1/2 cup of toasted almonds
3 bay leaves
4 cardamom pods
1 cinnamon stick

Steps and instructions

Wash the Basmati rice thoroughly and soak it in cold water for 30 minutes.
While the rice is soaking, heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the onions to the pot and sauté until they are golden brown.
Add the garlic to the pot and sauté for another minute.
Add the Mandhi spice mix, turmeric, black lemon powder, black pepper, and salt to the pot, stir well to combine everything.
Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until they are browned on all sides.
Add the water, bay leaves, cardamom pods, and cinnamon stick to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
While the chicken is cooking, drain the rice and add it to the pot. Stir well to combine everything, then cover the pot and let it cook for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the water has been absorbed.
While the rice is cooking, toast the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat until they are golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside.
Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and mix in the toasted almonds and raisins.
Transfer the Mandhi to a serving dish and serve hot.

Tools for making

Large pot - Used for cooking the chicken and rice together.
Skillet - Used to toast the almonds.
Knife - Needed for chopping onions and mincing garlic.
Measuring cups - Used to measure rice and water.
Wooden spoon - Used for stirring the ingredients in the pot.
Fork - Used to fluff the cooked rice.
Serving dish - Used to present the Mandhi when serving.

Recipe variations

Substitute the chicken with lamb or beef for a different meat option.
For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, and peas.
Try using a different type of rice such as jasmine or long-grain rice.
Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes to the dish for added flavor and texture.
Experiment with different spice blends or add additional spices like cumin, coriander, or paprika.
For a spicier version, add chopped chili peppers or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice or garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for a refreshing twist.
For a richer flavor, substitute some of the water with coconut milk.
Try using ghee instead of oil for a more traditional taste.
Serve the Mandhi with a side of yogurt or raita for a cool and creamy contrast.

Recipe overview

Mandhi is a traditional dish from Yemen that has gained popularity all over the Middle East. This flavorful dish consists of succulent chicken pieces and aromatic Basmati rice, cooked together with a blend of spices including Mandhi spice mix, turmeric, and black lemon powder, to name a few. The recipe also includes raisins and toasted almonds for an added touch of sweetness and crunch. Preparing Mandhi involves a few steps, including sautéing onions and garlic, browning the chicken, and boiling the mixture with spices before adding the soaked rice. Once everything is cooked, the dish is garnished with toasted almonds and raisins. Despite the many steps, the process is straightforward, and the result is a rich and hearty dish that's perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This recipe serves about 4 to 5 people and the cooking time is approximately 1.5 hours. Enjoy the process and the delicious flavors of this Middle Eastern delicacy!

Common questions

Can I use any type of rice for Mandhi? Basmati rice is traditionally used for Mandhi as it has a long grain and aromatic flavor. However, you can use other types of long-grain rice if Basmati rice is not available.
What can I substitute for Mandhi spice mix? If you don't have access to Mandhi spice mix, you can make a substitute by combining equal parts ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cinnamon.
Can I use boneless chicken instead of chicken pieces? Yes, you can use boneless chicken for this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly as boneless chicken tends to cook faster than chicken with bones.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Mandhi by substituting the chicken with vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, potatoes, and bell peppers. Adjust the cooking time to ensure the vegetables are cooked through.
What can I serve with Mandhi? Mandhi is often served with a side of yogurt, pickles, and a fresh salad. Some also enjoy it with a spicy tomato-based sauce.
Can I prepare Mandhi in advance? Mandhi is best enjoyed fresh but you can prepare the rice and chicken separately in advance and combine them before serving. Store the cooked rice and chicken in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze leftover Mandhi? Yes, you can freeze leftover Mandhi in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in a covered dish in the oven or microwave before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

Large pot - A large pot is needed to cook the Mandhi with the chicken and rice.
Skillet - A skillet is required to toast the almonds for garnishing.
Fork - A fork is used to fluff the cooked rice and mix in the almonds and raisins.
Serving dish - A serving dish is needed to present and serve the Mandhi.

Origin stories

Mandhi, an aromatic feast of rice and meat, has its roots in Yemen. Originating from Hadhramaut, Yemen, it's traditionally cooked in a tandoor, which is a special kind of oven. The meat, aged and marinated, is placed in the tandoor and the rice is cooked in the same pot to absorb all the delightful flavors. This time-honored cooking method imparts a delicious smokiness to the dish. Today, Mandhi is a beloved meal across the Arabian Peninsula and has traveled far and wide, earning a fond place in the hearts and on the plates of food lovers around the world.

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.

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