Mandi (fragrant Rice With Saffron And Rosewater)

Mandi is a traditional Omani dish that features fragrant rice flavored with saffron and rosewater. This aromatic and flavorful dish is a staple in Omani cuisine, often served during special occasions and gatherings.

Vegetarian Main Course Omani Omani Cuisine Rice Dish Saffron Rosewater
Mandi (fragrant Rice With Saffron And Rosewater)

Ingredients

  • 2 cups basmati rice
  • 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
  • 1 tablespoon rosewater
  • 1 onion, thinly sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1.5 lbs chicken, cut into pieces
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. Rinse the basmati rice until the water runs clear, then soak the rice in water for 30 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, soak the saffron threads in the rosewater and set aside.
  3. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until golden brown.
  4. Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, and ground turmeric to the pot. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Add the chicken pieces to the pot and brown on all sides.
  6. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover the pot, and simmer for 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
  7. Remove the chicken pieces from the pot and set aside. Strain the broth and reserve for cooking the rice.
  8. In a separate pot, bring the strained chicken broth to a boil. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the boiling broth. Cook for 10-15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  9. Arrange the cooked chicken pieces on top of the rice. Drizzle the saffron-infused rosewater over the chicken and rice.
  10. Cover the pot and let it steam for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  11. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Cooking & Preparation

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

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
300 per serving
Carbohydrates
50g
Protein
5g
Fat
8g

Supplies

Large pot Small bowl Knife Cutting board Strainer

Tools

Cooking spoon Fork

Serving suggestions

Mandi is traditionally served with a side of fresh salad, yogurt, and a hot sauce like zhug.

Tips & tricks

For an authentic touch, you can also use a traditional Omani clay pot for cooking the Mandi.

Cost

$15