Immerse yourself in the flavors of the Middle East with Majestic Makloubeh, a spectacular one-pot dish known for its aromatic spices and vibrant layers of vegetables and rice. This dish is a celebration of simplicity and taste, featuring perfectly cooked rice infused with a medley of spices, layered with an array of garden-fresh vegetables. It's a vegetarian delight that impresses with both its flavors and its dramatic upside-down presentation.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 90 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 6 people
- Serving Size: Approximately 1.5 cups
Nutritional Profile (per serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 65 g
- Fat: 7 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fiber: 6 g
Ingredients
- Basmati rice: 300 grams (10.6 ounces / 0.66 pounds)
- Cauliflower, cut into florets: 200 grams (7.1 ounces / 0.44 pounds)
- Eggplant, sliced: 200 grams (7.1 ounces / 0.44 pounds)
- Carrots, sliced: 150 grams (5.3 ounces / 0.33 pounds)
- Red bell pepper, sliced: 150 grams (5.3 ounces / 0.33 pounds)
- Onion, chopped: 100 grams (3.5 ounces / 0.22 pounds)
- Garlic cloves, minced: 20 grams (0.7 ounces / 0.04 pounds)
- Vegetable broth: 750 ml (26.4 ounces / 1.6 pounds)
- Olive oil: 30 ml (1 ounce / 0.06 pounds)
- Ground cumin: 5 grams (0.18 ounces / 0.01 pounds)
- Ground turmeric: 3 grams (0.11 ounces / 0.006 pounds)
- Ground cinnamon: 2 grams (0.07 ounces / 0.004 pounds)
- Salt: 5 grams (0.18 ounces / 0.01 pounds)
- Ground black pepper: 2 grams (0.07 ounces / 0.004 pounds)
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Rice Preparation: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak in warm water for 15 minutes, then drain.
- Cooking Vegetables: In a skillet, heat the olive oil. Sauté all vegetables with garlic, salt, and spices until slightly tender.
- Layering: In a large pot, layer the vegetables in an even spread. Top with the rice. Pour the broth over the rice.
- Cooking Makloubeh: Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes.
- The Big Reveal: Let the Makloubeh rest for 10 minutes. Place a large plate over the pot and carefully flip it upside down.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Use a wide, heavy-bottomed pot to ensure even cooking and easy flipping.
- Let the Makloubeh sit after flipping for a few minutes before removing the pot to ensure it holds its shape.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I add meat to Makloubeh?
Yes, you can layer cooked chicken or lamb beneath the vegetables for a non-vegetarian version.
How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?
Ensure the rice is well-drained and the broth is measured accurately.
Can Makloubeh be reheated?
Yes, it reheats well. Simply warm it in the oven or microwave.