Machbous Bil Samak (qatari Fish Machbous With Saffron Rice)

Machbous Bil Samak is a traditional Qatari dish featuring spiced fish served with fragrant saffron rice. This flavorful and aromatic dish is a staple in Qatari cuisine and is perfect for a special family dinner or gathering.

Halal Pescatarian Main Course Qatari Qatari Cuisine Fish Recipe Saffron Rice
Machbous Bil Samak (qatari Fish Machbous With Saffron Rice)

Ingredients

  • 500g white fish fillets, such as hammour or cod
  • 2 cups basmati rice
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 tomatoes, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons machbous spice mix
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
  • 4 cups chicken or fish stock
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. Start by marinating the fish fillets with 1 tablespoon of machbous spice mix and a pinch of salt. Set aside while you prepare the rice.
  2. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.
  4. Add the minced garlic, diced tomatoes, turmeric, cumin, coriander, saffron threads, and the remaining machbous spice mix. Cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes break down and the spices are fragrant.
  5. Stir in the rinsed rice and coat it with the spice mixture. Pour in the chicken or fish stock, season with salt, and bring to a boil.
  6. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the rice simmer for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through and fluffy.
  7. While the rice is cooking, heat a separate pan over medium-high heat. Add a little oil and sear the marinated fish fillets for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through.
  8. Serve the saffron rice on a platter, arrange the seared fish fillets on top, and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Cooking & Preparation

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

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Protein
25g
Carbohydrates
40g
Fat
10g

Supplies

Large pot Frying pan Cutting board Knife Measuring cups and spoons

Tools

Stove Spatula Cooking spoon Cooking fork

Serving suggestions

Serve the Machbous Bil Samak with a side of yogurt cucumber salad and warm Arabic bread.

Tips & tricks

For an extra kick of flavor, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the fish before serving.

Cost

$25