Makloba (sudanese Spiced Rice Pilaf)

Makloba is a popular Sudanese spiced rice pilaf dish that is often served during special occasions and gatherings. This flavorful and aromatic dish is made with layers of spiced rice, tender meat, and a variety of vegetables, all cooked together to create a beautiful and delicious one-pot meal.

Makloba (sudanese Spiced Rice Pilaf)

Ingredients

  • 2 cups basmati rice
  • 1 pound chicken, cut into pieces
  • 1 large eggplant, sliced
  • 2 onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup cauliflower florets
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and brown them on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, add the sliced onions and cook until they are soft and translucent.
  3. Add the eggplant and cauliflower to the pot and cook for a few minutes until they start to soften.
  4. Stir in the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cinnamon, and cook for another minute to toast the spices.
  5. Add the rice to the pot and stir to coat it with the spiced vegetable mixture.
  6. Place the browned chicken pieces on top of the rice and vegetables in an even layer.
  7. Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and rice. Season with salt and pepper.
  8. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender.
  9. Once cooked, carefully invert the pot onto a large serving platter, allowing the layers of rice, chicken, and vegetables to form a beautiful presentation.

Cooking & Preparation

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

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Carbohydrates
45g
Protein
20g
Fat
10g

Supplies

Large pot Serving platter

Tools

Knife Cutting board Measuring cups and spoons

Serving suggestions

Makloba is traditionally served with a side of yogurt or a simple salad.

Tips & tricks

For a vegetarian version, you can omit the chicken and use additional vegetables or tofu as a substitute.

Cost

$15