Machboos Laham (Arabic-Style Lamb and Rice)

Ingredients

1. Essential Ingredients

1. 1 lb lamb or beef, cut into small pieces
2. 2 cups basmati rice
3. 2 cups water
4. 2 tbsp vegetable oil
5. 1 large onion, chopped
6. 2 cloves garlic, minced
7. 1 tsp ground cumin
8. 1 tsp ground coriander
9. 1 tsp turmeric powder
10. Salt and black pepper

2. Middle Eastern Spices
1. 1 tsp ground cardamom
2. 1 tsp ground cinnamon
3. 1/2 tsp ground allspice

3. Optional Ingredients
1. Chopped fresh parsley
2. Fried almonds or pine nuts
3. Dried fruit (cranberries or apricots)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preparing Lamb
1. Heat oil in a large pot.
2. Add lamb and cook until browned.
3. Add onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cardamom, cinnamon and allspice.
4. Cook until onion is tender.
2. Adding Rice
1. Add rice to the pot.
2. Stir well.
3. Add water and salt.
4. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked.
3. Garnishing
1. Sprinkle parsley and fried nuts (if using).

Nutrition and Variations

1. Nutrition Information (approx.)
1. Calories: 500
2. Protein: 30g

3. Fat: 25g
2. Variations
1. Substitute lamb with chicken or beef.
2. Add dried fruit or chopped apricots.
3. Use different types of rice (long-grain or jasmine).

Tips and Presentation

1. Garnishes: Chopped parsley, fried almonds or pine nuts.
2. Plating: Serve Machboos Laham on a decorative platter.
3. Side dishes: Offer Arabic salad (tabbouleh), pickled vegetables or yogurt sauce.

Conclusion

Machboos Laham is a traditional Arabic dish perfect for Christmas dinner, offering rich flavors, aromatic spices and a festive presentation with samantarecipe .