Even if you are making it for a family dinner or a special gathering, this easy Mandi Rice recipe brings restaurant-style taste right to your kitchen.
What Is Mandi Rice?
Mandi rice is a traditional dish from Yemen, now beloved across the Middle East and beyond. It’s a flavorful combination of fragrant basmati rice, tender meat (usually chicken or lamb), and a unique blend of Arabic spices.
Traditionally cooked in a clay oven, Mandi is known for its smoky aroma, spiced meat, and moist, fluffy rice. This recipe replicates the authentic flavor using tools available in most home kitchens.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Easy to make at home
- Authentic Yemeni flavor
- Perfect for gatherings
- Works with chicken or lamb
- Optional smoke method for restaurant-style results
Also Read on Coconut Rice with Tomatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 whole chicken or 4-6 leg quarters
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp coriander
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp cardamom powder
- 2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp melted butter or oil
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1 tbsp garlic paste
- 1 tsp ginger paste
For the Mandi Rice:
- 3 cups basmati rice (soaked 30 mins)
- 4.5 cups chicken stock or water
- 2 tbsp ghee or oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 5 cloves
- 5–8 black peppercorns
- 6–8 cardamom pods
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 bay leaf
- Saffron strands soaked in 2 tbsp milk (optional)
- 1–2 green chilies (optional)
Optional Smoking:
- Small piece of charcoal
- 1/4 tsp oil or ghee
- Onion peel or foil cup
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
Mix marinade ingredients in a bowl. Coat chicken thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is ideal).
2. Cook the Chicken
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake or grill chicken for 30–40 minutes until cooked through and slightly crisp.
3. Prepare the Rice
- Heat ghee/oil in a heavy pot. Sauté onions until golden.
- Add whole spices and stir for 1–2 minutes.
- Add soaked rice and mix gently.
- Add stock/water and saffron milk. Cover and cook for 15–20 mins on low heat.
4. Add Smoky Flavor (Optional)
- Heat charcoal until red-hot. Place it in foil or onion peel on the rice.
- Add a few drops of ghee, quickly cover the pot, and let it smoke for 5–10 mins.
5. Assemble and Serve
Spread rice on a large serving dish. Top with grilled chicken. Garnish with fried onions, raisins, or herbs. Serve with yogurt salad or tomato chutney.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 650–750 kcal |
| Protein | 30–35g |
| Carbohydrates | 60–70g |
| Fat | 30–35g |
| Fiber | 3–5g |
Serving Suggestions
- Tomato Salsa: Mix tomato, chili, garlic, lemon juice, salt.
- Raita: Yogurt, cucumber, mint, and salt.
- Flatbread: Serve with khubz or pita.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use lamb instead of chicken?
Yes! Just increase cooking time for tenderness.
Is Mandi spicy?
It’s aromatic and mildly spicy. Adjust chilies to taste.
How is Mandi different from Biryani?
Mandi is lighter, less oily, and uses smoke; biryani is layered and more masala-heavy.