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.
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
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized.
- Add the chicken pieces to the pot and brown on all sides. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, cinnamon, turmeric, and allspice.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, layer the eggplant slices, cauliflower florets, and pine nuts.
- Add the rice on top of the vegetables and nuts, then place the browned chicken pieces on top of the rice.
- 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.
- 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