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**Authentic Lebanese Rice with Chicken Lebanese Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to a Flavorful Middle Eastern Delight**Lebanese cuisine is renowned for its ric……
**Authentic Lebanese Rice with Chicken Lebanese Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to a Flavorful Middle Eastern Delight**
Lebanese cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors, aromatic spices, and wholesome ingredients. One of the standout dishes in this culinary tradition is the rice with chicken Lebanese recipe, known locally as "Riz a Djej." This dish combines tender chicken with fragrant rice, infused with a blend of spices that create a symphony of flavors. Here, we will guide you through an authentic Lebanese rice with chicken Lebanese recipe that will transport your taste buds to the heart of the Middle East.
### Ingredients:
To prepare this delectable rice with chicken Lebanese recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or clarified butter (ghee)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 5-6 whole cloves
- 5-6 whole cardamom pods
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley and mint for garnish
### Instructions:
#### Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
1. **Marinate the Chicken**: In a large bowl, mix the chicken pieces with ground allspice, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground black pepper, ground cumin, ground coriander, and salt. Let the chicken marinate for at least an hour to absorb the flavors.
2. **Brown the Chicken**: In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil or ghee over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and brown them on all sides. This step is crucial for developing a deep, rich flavor in your rice with chicken Lebanese recipe. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
#### Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics
1. **Cook the Onions and Garlic**: In the same pot, add the chopped onions and cook until they become translucent and start to caramelize. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. **Add Whole Spices**: Add the cinnamon stick, whole cloves, and cardamom pods to the pot. Sauté for a few minutes to release their aromatic oils.
#### Step 3: Cooking the Rice
1. **Toast the Rice**: Add the basmati rice to the pot and toast it for a few minutes, stirring constantly to coat the rice with the aromatic oil and spices. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the rice.
2. **Add Water and Chicken**: Pour in enough water to cover the rice by about an inch. Return the browned chicken pieces to the pot, nestling them into the rice. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes until the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender.
#### Step 4: Preparing the Nuts
1. **Toast the Nuts**: In a small pan, toast the pine nuts and slivered almonds until golden brown. Be careful not to burn them, as they can go from perfectly toasted to burnt very quickly.
#### Step 5: Serving the Dish
1. **Assemble the Dish**: Once the rice and chicken are cooked, gently fluff the rice with a fork. Remove the whole spices (cinnamon stick, cloves, and cardamom pods) for a smoother eating experience.
2. **Garnish and Serve**: Transfer the rice and chicken to a large serving platter. Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts and almonds over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley and mint for a burst of color and freshness.
### Conclusion:
This authentic rice with chicken Lebanese recipe is a true celebration of Lebanese culinary heritage. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic rice, and toasted nuts creates a dish that is both comforting and exotic. Whether you are preparing it for a special occasion or a family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress and delight your guests. Enjoy the rich flavors and the warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen as you cook this classic Lebanese dish.