Ouzi with Vegetables and Meat – Traditional Gulf-Style Ouzi Recipe – Main Course Dish

Ouzi with Vegetables and Meat – Traditional Gulf-Style Ouzi Recipe – Main Course Dish

Ouzi with vegetables and meat is a beloved traditional dish widely enjoyed across the Arab world. Known for its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this dish is especially popular during gatherings, feasts, and celebratory occasions.

Originally from the Gulf region, Ouzi has since spread to many other Arab countries and become a staple in festive meals. Its hearty nature and unique spice blend make it a standout dish on any table.

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Ingredients (Serves 4):

 

• 4 cups long-grain rice

• 1 whole chicken, cut into 4 parts

• 3 carrots, chopped

• 1 can of corn

• 1 can of frozen peas

• 200 grams of lamb or beef (your choice)

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon Ouzi spice mix

• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom

• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric

• 1 teaspoon ground ginger

• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 2 bay leaves

• Roasted almonds (optional, for garnish)

• 3 garlic cloves

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)

• Salt to taste

• Chopped parsley for garnish

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How to Prepare Ouzi with Vegetables and Meat:

Start by soaking the rice in water for about 30 minutes. Meanwhile, clean and wash the chicken thoroughly.

In a large pot, place the chicken pieces with chopped onion and olive oil. Stir for a few minutes, then add water to cover the chicken, season with salt, and add bay leaves. Cook over medium heat until the chicken is fully done.

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. In a separate pan, heat the vegetable oil, then add carrots, corn, and peas. Stir well, add salt, bay leaves, and about ¼ cup of water. Cover and simmer until the vegetables are tender.

In a large pot, combine the soaked rice with Ouzi spices, black pepper, cumin, nutmeg, turmeric, cardamom, ginger, cinnamon, and minced garlic. Add 8 cups of the chicken broth (from cooking the chicken earlier) and bring it to a boil over high heat.

Once it boils, reduce the heat and let it simmer gently until the rice is fully cooked, stirring occasionally. Once done, top the rice with ghee and remove from heat.

In another pan, cook the lamb or beef with salt and black pepper until tender. In a small pan, lightly fry the almonds until golden.

For serving, layer the rice on a large platter, then top it with the sautéed vegetables, cooked meat, and fried almonds. Garnish with parsley and arrange the cooked chicken pieces on top.

Serve hot and enjoy the rich, aromatic flavors of this traditional Gulf dish with your family.