Meamar Rice

Ingredients

• Fresh cilantro (1/4 cup, chopped)
• Raisins (1/4 cup)
• Almonds (1/4 cup, sliced)
• Water (4 cups)
• Salt (to taste)
• Turmeric powder (1 teaspoon)
• Cloves (4)
• Cardamom pods (4)
• Cinnamon stick (1)
• Ghee or butter (4 tablespoons)
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
• Onion (1 large, thinly sliced)
• Chicken or lamb (500 grams, 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.
2. In a large pot, heat the ghee or butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until golden brown.
3. Add the minced garlic, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, and turmeric powder to the pot. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the chicken or lamb pieces to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
5. Add the soaked and drained rice to the pot and stir well to coat the rice with the spices and meat.
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. Add the sliced almonds and raisins and cook until the almonds are golden and the raisins are plump.
8. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and transfer to a serving dish. Top with the sautéed almonds, raisins, and chopped cilantro.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!