Mansaf Dajaj (yemeni Spiced Chicken Pilaf)

Mansaf Dajaj is a traditional Yemeni spiced chicken pilaf that is rich in flavor and aroma. This dish is often served during special occasions and gatherings, making it a beloved part of Yemeni cuisine.

Halal Main Course Yemeni Yemeni Cuisine Chicken Pilaf Spiced Rice
Mansaf Dajaj (yemeni Spiced Chicken Pilaf)

Ingredients

  • 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
  • 2 cups long-grain rice
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 1/2 cup chopped almonds
  • 1/4 cup ghee or clarified butter
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat the ghee over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until golden brown.
  2. Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, cardamom, and cinnamon. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes.
  5. While the chicken is simmering, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain the rice and set aside.
  6. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and set aside. Stir the yogurt into the broth in the pot.
  7. Add the rice to the pot, cover, and cook for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  8. While the rice is cooking, in a small skillet, toast the chopped almonds until golden brown.
  9. Arrange the cooked chicken pieces on a serving platter and spoon the spiced rice over the chicken.
  10. Garnish with toasted almonds and fresh parsley 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
450 per serving
Carbohydrates
40g
Protein
25g
Fat
20g

Supplies

Large pot Skillet Serving platter

Tools

Cooking spoon Chef's knife Cutting board

Serving suggestions

Mansaf Dajaj is traditionally served with a side of fresh salad, such as fattoush, and warm pita bread.

Tips & tricks

For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a pinch of saffron threads to the rice while it's cooking.

Cost

$20