Lebanese Chicken Mansaf: A Feast of Flavours
Description
Dive into the heart of Lebanese cuisine with this simple yet spectacular recipe for Chicken Mansaf. Known for its rich flavours and diverse textures, this dish is a testament to the beauty of Middle Eastern cooking. It pairs juicy chicken drumsticks with aromatic basmati rice, all brought to life with a blend of traditional spices and topped with a mix of nuts and dried fruits. It's the perfect meal to impress your guests or to enjoy with your family on any occasion.
What sets this Lebanese Chicken Mansaf apart are the carefully chosen toppings that adorn the dish. Slivered and halved almonds introduce a crunch that contrasts the tenderness of the chicken and the softness of the rice, while sultanas and dried cherries offer bursts of sweetness and tartness that brighten the overall flavor profile. Chopped parsley adds a fresh, herbal note, and a sprinkle of Lebanese 7 spices over the chicken ties everything together with a final layer of aromatic depth.
This Lebanese Chicken Mansaf is best served with a side of yogurt or a fresh garden salad, adding a refreshing contrast to the rich flavours of the dish. Enjoy this delightful meal with your loved ones and savour the taste of Lebanon in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
For the Chicken Broth:
For the Rice:
Toppings (Optional):
Instructions
-
Prepare the Chicken:
- In a pot, heat some cooking oil and cook your chicken drumsticks until slightly golden.
- Add the whole spices, salt, and water. Cover and let it simmer until fully cooked. Remember to remove any scum that floats to the surface.
- Once the chicken is cooked, strain it into a colander, preserving the broth.
-
Cook the Rice:
- Wash the basmati rice thoroughly.
- In another pot, heat the ghee and fry the diced onion until slightly golden. Then add the mixed vegetables, Mansaf spices, and 3 cups of the preserved chicken broth.
- Bring the broth to a simmer, then add the rice. Cook on medium to low heat until the water has evaporated, lowering the flame towards the end.
-
Prepare the Toppings:
- While the rice is cooking, remove the chicken from the bone and set it aside.
- Fry the almonds, sultanas, and cherries in a bit of oil until they're just warmed through and slightly toasty.
-
Assemble the Dish:
- Place the cooked rice onto your serving dish, then top with the chicken.
- Sprinkle some Lebanese seven spice on the chicken for added flavor.
- Add the fried nuts, sultanas, cherries, and parsley on top for a beautiful and tasty garnish.
Enjoy :)
Note
This Lebanese Chicken Mansaf is best served with a side of yogurt or a fresh garden salad, adding a refreshing contrast to the rich flavours of the dish. Enjoy this delightful meal with your loved ones and savour the taste of Lebanon in every bite.
