Mansaf with a Twist (منسف مع لمسة جديدة)

Mansaf is a traditional Jordanian dish that is often served on special occasions and gatherings. It is a delicious combination of lamb, yogurt, and rice, topped with toasted nuts and served with shrak bread. In this recipe, we will add a twist to the classic Mansaf to elevate its flavors and make it even more special.

Halal Gluten Free Main Course Jordanian Jordanian Cuisine Mansaf Lamb Rice Yogurt
Mansaf with a Twist (منسف مع لمسة جديدة)

Ingredients

  • 1 kg lamb, cut into chunks
  • 2 cups plain yogurt
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • Salt to taste
  • 4 cups long-grain rice, rinsed and drained
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup mixed nuts (almonds, pine nuts, and cashews), toasted
  • Shrak bread for serving

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, place the lamb chunks and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until the meat is tender. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.
  2. In a bowl, whisk the yogurt with 1 cup of water until smooth. Set aside.
  3. Once the meat is tender, remove it from the pot and set aside. Discard the cooking liquid.
  4. In the same pot, sauté the chopped onion until golden. Add the cooked lamb back to the pot.
  5. Stir in the turmeric, cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Pour the yogurt mixture over the meat. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Meanwhile, in a separate pot, cook the rice according to package instructions.
  7. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and stir in the butter.
  8. To serve, arrange the rice on a large serving platter. Place the cooked lamb on top of the rice, then pour the yogurt sauce over the meat and rice. Sprinkle the toasted nuts on top.
  9. Serve the Mansaf with shrak bread on the side.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
30 minutes
Cooking time:
2 hours
Total time:
2 hours
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
500 per serving
Protein
30g
Carbohydrates
45g
Fat
20g

Supplies

Large pot Bowl Whisk Serving platter

Tools

Knife Cutting board Pot Frying pan

Serving suggestions

Serving suggestion: Enjoy the Mansaf with a side of fresh salad and a cold glass of ayran.

Tips & tricks

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, you can add a pinch of saffron to the rice while cooking.

Cost

$30