As Ramadan unfolds, families around the world gather for Iftar, looking for delicious and fulfilling meals to replenish their energy after a day of fasting. Among the most cherished dishes for this occasion is Arabian Mandi—a fragrant and flavorful dish that brings together tender steamed chicken and aromatic spiced rice.

If you’re searching for a traditional yet easy homemade recipe, this guide will walk you through making the perfect Chicken Mandi for your Iftar table.

What is Mandi?

Mandi is a famous dish that originated in Yemen and has since gained popularity across the Middle East, especially in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and other Gulf countries. Known for its distinctive aroma and smoky flavor, Mandi is made by slow-cooking marinated chicken with a special blend of spices and serving it over long-grain rice.

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The dish is not only rich in taste but also nutritious, providing the energy needed to stay active after fasting. Plus, with a hint of traditional smokiness, it’s a must-try Iftar recipe that will surely impress your family and guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Arabian Mandi

To prepare authentic Chicken Mandi, you need three key components: Mandi Masala (spice mix), Chicken Mandi, and Mandi Rice. Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Mandi Masala (Homemade Spice Mix)

• 10g Coriander seeds
• 10g Cumin
• 5g Black pepper
• 5g Star anise
• 5g Green cardamoms
• 5g Cinnamon
• 5g Black cardamoms
• 5g Fennel seeds

For Chicken Mandi

• 2 tbsp Mandi Masala
• Salt (to taste)
• 2 tbsp Vinegar
• 1 tbsp Red chili powder
• 1 tbsp Ginger garlic paste
• 2 tbsp Crushed red chili
• 2 tbsp Lemon juice
• 1 kg Whole chicken
• 3 liters Hot water

For Mandi Rice

• 4 tbsp Cooking oil
• 2 Onions (chopped)
• 1 tbsp Ginger garlic paste
• 20g Raisins
• 25g Cashews
• 3 Green chilies (chopped)
• Salt (to taste)
• 1 tbsp Cumin
• 0.5 liter Water
• 2 Chicken stock cubes
• 500g Soaked rice
• 1 tsp Yellow food color
• 1 Ember foil

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Arabian Mandi

Follow these simple instructions to prepare an authentic and flavorful Mandi at home.

Step 1: Prepare the Mandi Masala

1. Dry roast all the spice ingredients in a pan until fragrant.
2. Grind them into a fine powder.
3. Your homemade Mandi Masala is ready.

Step 2: Marinate and Cook the Chicken

1. In a bowl, mix Mandi Masala, salt, vinegar, red chili powder, ginger garlic paste, crushed red chili, and lemon juice.
2. Apply this marinade thoroughly to the whole chicken and let it rest for 2-3 hours.
3. Steam the marinated chicken for 35-40 minutes until it becomes tender and juicy.

Step 3: Cook the Mandi Rice

1. Heat cooking oil in a pan and sauté onions, ginger garlic paste, raisins, cashews, green chilies, salt, and cumin.
2. Add water and chicken stock cubes, allowing it to cook for a few minutes.
3. Stir in the soaked rice, cooking until the water is fully absorbed.
4. Add yellow food coloring and steam the rice for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

1. Place the steamed chicken on top of the Mandi rice.
2. Heat a small ember, place it on a piece of foil, and drizzle 1 tsp oil over it.
3. Cover the pot for 2-3 minutes to infuse the dish with a smoky aroma.
4. Serve hot with yogurt sauce or raita for an authentic Arabian Mandi experience.

Why is Mandi a Perfect Dish for Iftar?

Mandi is more than just a meal—it’s a complete experience that brings together tradition, flavor, and nutrition. Here’s why it’s ideal for Iftar:

• Rich in Protein & Spices: The marinated chicken provides essential protein, while the blend of spices enhances digestion.
• Energizing & Fulfilling: Mandi rice, packed with nuts and raisins, provides a balanced source of carbohydrates to replenish lost energy after fasting.
• Easy to Digest: Despite being flavorful, Mandi is light on the stomach, making it perfect for Iftar.
• Authentic Taste: The smoky aroma and slow-cooked tenderness of chicken create a truly traditional Arabian dining experience.

Bringing the authentic taste of Arabian Mandi to your Iftar table is easier than ever with this homemade recipe. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting a gathering, this dish is bound to impress with its rich flavors and irresistible aroma.

So, why wait? Try this easy Chicken Mandi recipe today and enjoy the true flavors of Arabian cuisine during Ramadan!

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