Introductions.
Welcome to a culinary journey that brings the flavors of the Arabian peninsula right into your kitchen.
Chicken Makbous Alhassa is a cherished traditional dish hailing from the Al-Hassa region of Saudi Arabia Famed for it is aromatic spices and savory taste this dish is a delicious representation of rich Saudi heritage.
in this article we will take you through a step by step guide to mastering this delightful recipe ensuring you can recreate the magic of Makbous Al-Hassa at home.
Ingredients: The Heart Of Your Dish.
Every dish begins with it is ingredients, and the allure of Makbous Al-Hassa lies in it is vibrant, fragrant components.
Here's what you will need.
A. Spice Blend.
*Teaspoons ground cumin 2
* Teaspoon ground coriander 1
* Teaspoon ground turmeric 1
* Teaspoon ground cinnamon 1
* Teaspoon ground black pepper 1
* Teaspoon ground Cloves 1
* Teaspoons ground Cardamom 2.
B. Main Ingredients.
* Whole chicken, cut into pieces 1
* Cups Basmati rice 2
* Cups Water or chicken broth 4
* Large onions, finely slice 2
* Garlic cloves, minced 3
* Tomatoes, Chopped 2
* Tablespoons Vegetable oil 3
* Salt to taste.
* Cup Plain yogurt 1
* Tablespoons tomato Paste 2
* Dried lime (loomi), pierced with a fork 1
* Cup Raisins 1/4
* Cup slivered almonds, Toasted 1/4.
The Spice blend is the cornerstone of Makbous Al-Hassa, infusing the chicken and rice with deep eathy flavors.
Step by Step Instructions: Bringing the Recipe to Life.
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's dive into the preparation.
Follow these steps meticulously to ensure a perfect Makbous ALhassa.
A.Preparing the Chicken.
1- Marinate the Chicken: Combine the yogurt, half of the spice blend and salt in a large bowl.
Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well coated.
Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally overnight for deeper flavor.
2- Searing the Chicken: Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the chicken pieces and sear them until they achieve a golden brown color on all sides Remove the chicken and set it aside.
B. Creating the Flavor Base.
1- Onions and Garlic: In the same pot add the sliced onions and cook until they turn translucent and slightly caramelized.
Add the minced garlic and continue to saute until fragrant.
2- Tomatoes and spices: Stir in the chopped tomatoes, remaining spice blend and tomato paste.
Cook until the tomatoes are softened and the micture becomes thick and fragrant.
C. Building the Dish.
1- Combine Chicken and base: Return theseared chicken to the pot coating it thoroughly with the tomato and spice mixture.
Add the dried lime water or broth and bring to a gentle boil.
2- Layering: Add the rice to the pot spreading it evenly over the chicken and sauce.
pour in additional water or broth if needed to submerge the rice.
place a tight fitting lid on the pot and cook on low heat for about 20- 25 minutes , or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
D. Garnishing and Serving.
Drained: Remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered for about 10 minutes.
This helps the flavors meld together.
Raisins and Almonds: Gently fluff the rice with a fork sprinkle the toasted almonds and raisins on top for added texture and sweetness.
Patience is key when simmering the chicken and allowing the rice to cook gently ensuring flavors develop beautifully.
Personal Touch: The Family Feast.
Growing up in a houshold where food was central to our gatherings, Makbous Al- Hassa always signified time with family.
I remember the aromas filling our home drawing everyone to the kitchen with anticipation.
Recreating this dish in my home brings back those warm memories and is a wonderful way to share my heritage with loved ones.
also I try this way to prepare the Makbous Al-Hassa with chicken, a dish I have tried and found somewhat satisfying.
Today, I'll guide you through the process of cooking Makbous Al-Hassa, a dish I personally enjoy trying once a week. In the end, it's a highly satisfying dish.
Let's start by gathering the necessary
ingredients:
1. White rice (consider the quantity based on the number of people).
2. Chicken (adjust the amount based on the number of servings).
3. Tomatoes.
4. Onions.
5. Chicken spices.
6. Bay leaves.
7. Quality cooking spices.
8. Ground or whole cloves.
9. Cooking oil (a small amount) or butter (either oil or butter, not both).
10. Drinking water.
11. Salt.
12. Kabsa spices.
Now that we have the ingredients, let's move on to the cooking method for Makbous Al-Hassa:
First: Wash and finely chop the onions. Prepare an iron pot for cooking, add a small amount of oil, then place the chopped onions in the iron pot until they become tender. After cleaning the tomatoes, slice them and add them to the cooking iron pot to prevent ingredients from sticking. Begin by pouring water into the pot, equivalent to the initial level of the pot's bottom. Stir the ingredients and add salt, bay leaves, ground cloves, and other spices. Keep adding water as it dries.
Second: Clean the chicken, cut it as needed, and also clean the rice with water, straining it three or four times. Keep them separately in a temporary water-filled container.
Third: Season the chicken and raise the water level slightly above the pot's bottom. Add the seasoned chicken to the iron pot with other ingredients and stir for about ten minutes. Raise the water level until the chicken is fully submerged, then wait for it to cook. Add the clean rice to the iron pot with the chicken and other ingredients, pour water until the rice is completely submerged. Lower the heat until the water dries, and the Makbous Al-Hassa is ready. Cooking time on low heat is usually around 1:15; monitor it closely.
And there you have it. Makbous Al-Hassa is a staple for lunch in many households in the Hassa region, cooked once or twice a week. It's also a significant dish in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, often prepared with lamb, goat, or chicken. Some add meat, ghee, nuts, and raisins to the dish. In some countries, a similar dish is called "Makbous," and there's a comparable dish known as "Matabeek," cooked with fish and shrimp.
Conclusion.
CHicken Makbous Alhassa is more than just a meal it is a culinary heritage that transcends generations.
This recipe enriches any dining experience with it is flavorful spices and nourishing ingredients.
Whether it is a special occasion or a simple family dinner, this dish promises a delightful journey to the heart of Saudi cuisine.
Why not give this recipe a try? Feel free to share your experiences and any personal touches you added to make the recipe your own.
Let is keep the tradition alive one delicious serving at a time.
By following this guide you are not just cooking lounch you are preserving a piece of cultural history.
Enjoy your journey into the world of Chicken Makbous Al-Hassa and happy cooking.
Please feel free to share your comments and opinions on this topic. Thank you.
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