Makloubeh (syrian Rice Pilaf)

Makloubeh, which translates to "upside-down" in Arabic, is a traditional Syrian rice pilaf dish that is often made with layers of spiced meat, vegetables, and rice. This flavorful and aromatic dish is a staple in Syrian Jewish cuisine and is perfect for serving at family gatherings and special occasions.

Kosher Halal Main Course Syrian Jewish Syrian Cuisine Rice Pilaf Middle Eastern Family Recipe
Makloubeh (syrian Rice Pilaf)

Ingredients

  • 2 cups basmati rice
  • 1 pound boneless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
  • 1 large eggplant, sliced
  • 2 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken chunks and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized. Remove half of the onions and set aside for later use.
  3. Add the eggplant slices to the pot and cook until softened. Remove the eggplant and set aside.
  4. In the pot, layer the caramelized onions, followed by the cooked chicken, and then the eggplant slices.
  5. In a separate bowl, mix the rice with the ground cumin, cinnamon, turmeric, allspice, cardamom, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Spread the rice mixture evenly over the layers in the pot.
  6. Pour the chicken or vegetable broth over the rice, making sure it is completely covered.
  7. Cover the pot and bring the broth to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
  8. Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for 10 minutes. Then, carefully invert the pot onto a large serving platter, allowing the layers to flip and create the "upside-down" presentation.
  9. Serve the Makloubeh hot, topped with the reserved caramelized onions and your choice of yogurt or salad on the side.

Cooking & Preparation

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

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

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

Supplies

Large pot Serving platter

Tools

Knife Cutting board Measuring cups and spoons

Serving suggestions

Makloubeh is traditionally served with a side of plain yogurt or a fresh salad to complement the rich flavors of the dish.

Tips & tricks

For a vegetarian version, you can omit the chicken and use additional vegetables such as cauliflower or potatoes in the layers.

Cost

$20