Arabic Chicken Mandi - Kaaf Foods
Arabic Chicken Mandi Recipe

Arabic Chicken Mandi

Diff🟡Medium
Prep⏱️20 Mins
Cook⏲️35 Mins
Total55 Mins
Serv🍽️4-5
Cuisine🌍Arabic
Ingredients
Chicken & Marinade
Whole Chicken (with skin)1 pc (1300g)
Salt1.5 tsp
Black Pepper (ground)1 tsp
Paprika Powder1 tsp
Turmeric Powder½ tsp
Orange Food Color (or saffron)¼ tsp
Cooking Oil / Olive OilFor paste
Rice & Broth Base
Sela Rice (or Basmati, soaked)500 g
Cooking Oil½ cup
Bay Leaves2
Green Cardamom3-4
Black Peppercorns½ tbsp
Cloves4-5
Salt¾ tbsp
Onion (sliced)1 large
Garlic (whole)2 pcs
Water5 cups
Green Chilies2-3
Pro Tip
Steaming the marinated chicken directly over the cooking rice broth infuses the grains with rich meaty juices while keeping the chicken incredibly tender. To elevate your traditional Arabian meals to a gourmet standard, explore premium spices and cooking essentials from Kaaf Foods™.
How To Cook
Step 1: Marinate Chicken
Coat whole chicken with a spice and oil paste and rest. 30 Mins
Step 2: Prepare Broth Base
Sauté whole spices and onions in oil, add water, and bring to a boil with rice. 10 Mins
Step 3: Setup Steam Layer
Cover pot with foil and perforated butter paper, place chicken on top, and seal tightly. 5 Mins
Step 4: Simmer & Steam
Cook on low flame until rice absorbs water and chicken is fully tender. 35 Mins
Step 5: Smoke & Serve
Give coal smoke to the dish for authentic tandoori flavor and serve hot. 5 Mins
Video Guide

Watch the recipe recommended video.

🎥 Video Credit: Kun Foods
Nutrition Facts
CALORIES
per serving (approx. 350g)
580 kcal
Fat
20g
Carbs
60g
Fiber
3g
Sugar
4g
Protein
38g
Calorie Distribution
Protein 26% Carbs 41% Fat 33%
FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Chicken Mandi without skin?
Authentic mandi traditionally uses chicken with skin for moisture and rich flavor, but skinless chicken can be used if preferred.
What type of rice is best for Mandi?
Long-grain Sela Basmati rice or traditional Basmati rice works best because it holds its shape during steaming.
Why is Paprika used in the marinade?
Paprika gives the chicken a vibrant reddish color and mild warmth without overpowering heat.
Can I use regular basmati rice instead of sela rice?
Yes, regular basmati rice can be used, but adjust the water quantity according to your rice type.
How do I give a smoky charcoal flavor at home?
Place a small piece of burning charcoal on foil in the center of the dish, add a few drops of oil, and cover tightly.
Is it necessary to pierce holes in the butter paper?
Yes, perforating the butter paper allows the rich steam from the rice broth to rise and cook the chicken evenly.
Can I use chicken pieces instead of a whole chicken?
Whole chicken cut open flat gives the best presentation, but large chicken pieces (legs/breasts) can also be used.
What goes well as a side dish with Chicken Mandi?
Spicy tomato-chili salsa (Daqous) and fresh yogurt mint raita complement Mandi perfectly.
Why did my rice turn out mushy?
Ensure you use the exact water ratio recommended for your specific rice variety and do not over-soak.
Why choose Kaaf Foods™ products for traditional Arabic recipes?
Authentic Middle Eastern dishes require pure, top-quality aromatic spices. Kaaf Foods™ provides premium culinary essentials.
Where can I buy pure Kaaf Foods™ products online?
Order chemical-free spices and culinary products directly from kaaffoods.com.
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