The most delicious Arabic food

The Ultimate Guide to Making Basmati Rice with Meat

Basmati rice with meat is a rich and aromatic dish enjoyed across many cultures, from Middle Eastern Kabsa to Indian Biryani. This dish features perfectly cooked basmati rice infused with fragrant spices and tender, flavorful meat. Follow this guide for a delicious, foolproof recipe.

Ingredients

For the Meat:

• 500g beef, lamb, or chicken (cut into chunks)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon turmeric (optional)
• ½ teaspoon cardamom
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 cups water or broth

For the Rice:

• 2 cups basmati rice (rinsed and soaked for 20-30 minutes)
• 3 cups meat broth (from cooking the meat)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon saffron or turmeric (for color, optional)
• 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
• 2 tablespoons ghee or butter

For Garnish (Optional):

• ¼ cup slivered almonds, toasted
• ¼ cup raisins (for sweetness)
• Fresh chopped parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Meat:

1. Heat oil or ghee in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden.
3. Add the garlic and stir for 30 seconds.
4. Add the meat and cook until browned on all sides.
5. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, and cardamom. Stir well.
6. Pour in 4 cups of water or broth, add bay leaves, and bring to a boil.
7. Lower the heat, cover, and simmer:
   • Beef/Lamb: 1.5 – 2 hours (until tender)
   • Chicken: 40-50 minutes (until fully cooked)
8. Remove the meat and set it aside. Strain the broth and save 3 cups for the rice.

2. Cook the Basmati Rice:

1. In the same pot, melt 2 tablespoons of ghee over medium heat.
2. Add the drained rice and sauté for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted.
3. Pour in 3 cups of the reserved meat broth.
4. Add salt, saffron (or turmeric), and a cinnamon stick.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5-10 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

3. Combine & Garnish:

1. Arrange the cooked meat on top of the rice.
2. In a small pan, toast the almonds and raisins in butter until golden.
3. Garnish the rice with nuts, raisins, and chopped parsley.

4. Serve & Enjoy!

• Serve hot with yogurt, salad, or a side of garlic sauce.
• Pair with a cooling raita or a fresh cucumber-tomato salad for balance.

Tips for the Best Basmati Rice with Meat:

✅ Use high-quality basmati rice for fluffy, separate grains.
✅ Cooking the rice in meat broth adds incredible flavor.
✅ Let the rice steam after cooking for the best texture.
✅ Garnish with toasted nuts and raisins for a touch of crunch and sweetness.

This dish is perfect for family gatherings and special occasions. Would you like variations, such as a spicier version or different meats? 😊