Makloubeh Djej (syrian Chicken And Rice Casserole)

Makloubeh Djej is a traditional Syrian Jewish dish that translates to "upside-down" in Arabic. This flavorful chicken and rice casserole is a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for family gatherings and special occasions.

Makloubeh Djej (syrian Chicken And Rice Casserole)

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs chicken, cut into pieces
  • 2 cups basmati rice
  • 1 large eggplant, sliced
  • 2 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup cauliflower florets
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1/4 tsp ground allspice
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts
  • 3 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized.
  2. Add the chicken pieces to the pot and brown on all sides. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, cinnamon, turmeric, and allspice.
  3. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, layer the eggplant slices, cauliflower florets, and pine nuts.
  4. Add the rice on top of the vegetables and nuts, then place the browned chicken pieces on top of the rice.
  5. Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and rice, then cover the pot and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender.
  6. Once cooked, carefully invert the pot onto a large serving platter, allowing the rice and vegetables to form a beautiful "upside-down" presentation.

Cooking & Preparation

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

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Protein
25g
Carbohydrates
30g
Fat
12g

Supplies

Large pot Serving platter

Tools

Knife Cutting board Measuring cups and spoons

Serving suggestions

Serve Makloubeh Djej with a side of yogurt and a fresh salad.

Tips & tricks

For a vegetarian version, you can omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Cost

$20