
Majboos Laham (Middle Eastern Spiced Lamb and Rice)
Majboos Laham, also known as Kabsa or Machboos, is a quintessential dish from the Gulf region, particularly loved in Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait. This aromatic dish features tender lamb cooked with a blend of fragrant spices, vegetables, and rice, creating a hearty and flavorful one-pot meal.
Ingredients
For the Lamb and Broth:
- 1 kg lamb (bone-in pieces preferred)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 dried black limes (loomi), pierced with a fork
- 1 stick cinnamon
- 4-5 whole cardamom pods
- 4-5 whole cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- 6–8 cups water (to cook the lamb)
- Salt to taste
For the Rice:
- 2 cups basmati rice (washed and soaked for 30 minutes)
- 1/2 cup golden raisins (optional)
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds or pine nuts (optional, for garnish)
- 2-3 tablespoons butter or ghee
For the Vegetables:
- 2 medium carrots, julienned or sliced
- 1 large tomato, thinly sliced
- 1 green chili (optional, for a hint of spice)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Lamb
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the lamb pieces and cook until browned on all sides.
Step 2: Build the Broth
- Stir in the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, turmeric, cumin, coriander, ground cinnamon, and paprika.
- Add the dried black limes, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, and bay leaf. Mix well.
- Pour in the water, ensuring the lamb is fully submerged.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5–2 hours, or until the lamb is tender. Skim off any foam or impurities during cooking.
Step 3: Prepare the Rice
- Once the lamb is tender, strain the broth into a separate bowl and set aside. Discard the whole spices (loomi, cinnamon stick, etc.).
- Return the lamb to the pot, cover, and keep warm.
- Measure about 4 cups of the reserved broth to cook the rice. Add more water if necessary to make up the quantity.
Step 4: Cook the Rice
- Heat 2–3 tablespoons of butter or ghee in a large pot.
- Sauté the carrots, sliced tomato, and green chili (if using) for 2–3 minutes.
- Add the soaked and drained rice to the pot and mix gently.
- Pour the measured broth over the rice, ensuring it covers the rice by about 1 inch. Adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover tightly and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and fluffy.
Step 5: Assemble the Majboos
- Layer the cooked lamb on top of the rice. Cover and let it steam together for 5–10 minutes for the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- In a small pan, toast the almonds or pine nuts in a little butter until golden brown.
- Sprinkle the toasted nuts and raisins over the Majboos.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of fresh salad, yogurt, or a cucumber-mint raita.
- Add a splash of fresh lime juice for a zesty finish.
Tips:
- For a smokier flavor: Add a piece of hot charcoal on a small foil tray over the rice, drizzle with a bit of ghee, and cover the pot for 5 minutes.
- Vegetarian option: Substitute lamb with mixed vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, and potatoes, and use vegetable broth instead.
Enjoy Majboos Laham, a true celebration of Middle Eastern flavors and hospitality!
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