Meamar Rice

Ingredients

Fresh cilantro

1/4 cup, chopped

Raisins

1/3 cup

Almonds

1/3 cup, sliced

Water

4 cups

Salt

1 teaspoon

Turmeric powder

1 teaspoon

Cloves

3 whole

Cardamom pods

4 whole

Cinnamon stick

1 whole

Ghee or butter

3 tablespoons

Garlic

4 cloves, minced

Onion

1 large, sliced

Chicken or lamb

1.5 pounds, cut into pieces

Basmati rice

2 cups

Instructions

1. Wash the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes, then drain well.
2. In a large pot, heat the ghee or butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, and turmeric powder to the pot. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently.
4. Add the chicken or lamb pieces to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, approximately 5-8 minutes.
5. Add the soaked and drained rice to the pot and stir well to coat the rice with the spices and meat for about 2 minutes.
6. Pour in the water and season with salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
7. In a separate small pan, heat a tablespoon of ghee or butter over medium heat. Add the sliced almonds and raisins, cooking until the almonds are golden and the raisins are plump, around 3-4 minutes.
8. Once the rice is done, fluff it gently with a fork and transfer it to a serving dish. Top with the sautéed almonds, raisins, and chopped cilantro.
9. Serve hot and enjoy the aromatic flavors of this traditional dish!