Machbous Ala Djaj (Bahrain) Recipe

Name: Machbous Ala Djaj (Bahrain)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large onions, chopped; 2 tablespoons ghee or 2 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon baharat (the recipe for this spice mix is available on food.com); 1 teaspoon turmeric; chicken; 1 1/2 cups chopped tomatoes; 3 cloves; 1 strip lemon rind; 2 cinnamon sticks; 6 cardamom pods; 2 teaspoons salt; 2 1/2 cups water; 2 cups basmati rice; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro; 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Servings: persons

2 large onions, chopped
2 tablespoons ghee or 2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon baharat (the recipe for this spice mix is available on food.com)
1 teaspoon turmeric
chicken
1 1/2 cups chopped tomatoes
3 cloves
1 strip lemon rind
2 cinnamon sticks
6 cardamom pods
2 teaspoons salt
2 1/2 cups water
2 cups basmati rice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
2 tablespoons chopped parsley

1
Melt the ghee or butter in a saucepan and frying the onions until they are transparent and beginning to turn brown. Add the baharat and turmeric and stir for another two minutes or so.
2
Add the chicken pieces to the pot and turn to coat. Cook over a medium heat until the pieces are lightly browned on all sides.
3
Add the tomatoes, cloves, lemon rind, cinnamon, cardamom pods and salt. Stir to get everything well incorporated, then add the water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Simmer for about 45 minutes.
4
Wash the rice in cold water and drain. Add the rice, cilantro and parsley and bring back to a simmer.
5
Keep cooking for another 35 to 40 minutes, until chicken is tender and almost all of the liquid has been absorbed. Remove from the heat and let rest for 10 minutes.

553

kcal

Calories

Fat

124

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Use a neutral oil or a plant-based spread in place of butter for a dairy-free version.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

Saved locally in your browser — visible only to you.

How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 15 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 2 large onions, chopped, 2 tablespoons ghee or 2 tablespoons butter, 1 tablespoon baharat (the recipe for this spice mix is available on food.com), 1 teaspoon turmeric, and more.

Yes, Machbous Ala Djaj (Bahrain) falls under the Meat & Poultry category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Machbous Ala Djaj (Bahrain)

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions