Machbous Bil Dajaj (qatari Chicken Machbous With Saffron Rice)

Machbous Bil Dajaj, also known as Qatari Chicken Machbous with Saffron Rice, is a traditional dish from Qatari cuisine that is bursting with aromatic flavors. This dish is a perfect blend of tender chicken, fragrant spices, and saffron-infused rice, creating a delightful and satisfying meal.

Machbous Bil Dajaj (qatari Chicken Machbous With Saffron Rice)

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs (900g) chicken, cut into pieces
  • 2 cups basmati rice
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tomatoes, diced
  • 3 tablespoons machbous spice mix
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon saffron threads
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until they are soft and translucent.
  2. Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until they are browned on all sides.
  3. Stir in the machbous spice mix, turmeric, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and black pepper, ensuring the chicken is well coated with the spices.
  4. Add the diced tomatoes and cook for a few minutes until they start to soften.
  5. Stir in the basmati rice, saffron threads, and salt, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender.
  6. Once done, fluff the rice with a fork and serve the Machbous Bil Dajaj hot.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
1 hour
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
450 per serving
Carbohydrates
55g
Protein
25g
Fat
15g

Supplies

Large pot Cooking spoon Measuring cups and spoons Knife Cutting board

Tools

Fork Serving platter

Serving suggestions

Serving suggestions: Machbous Bil Dajaj is traditionally served with a side of yogurt and a fresh salad.

Tips & tricks

Tip: To enhance the flavor, you can garnish the dish with fried onions and toasted nuts before serving.

Cost

$20