Sharmoula Rice Recipe

Moroccan Chermoula Rice with Chicken, garnished with fresh parsley, served with salad and yogurt

• Ingredients:

• 2 cups basmati or long-grain rice

• 500g chicken or meat (cut into small pieces)

• 1 onion (finely chopped)

• 2 garlic cloves (minced)

• 2 tomatoes (peeled and chopped)

• 1 tsp ground ginger

• 1 tsp turmeric

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp cumin

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• 1/4 tsp chili powder (optional)

• Salt (to taste)

• Olive oil

• Chicken broth or water (for cooking the rice)

• Handful of chopped parsley and cilantro

• Steps:

  1- Prepare the Rice:

  • Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear.

  • Soak the rice in warm water for about 30 minutes, then drain it and set it aside.

  2- Prepare the Chicken or Meat:

  • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.

  • Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and golden.

  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant.

  3- Add the Spices:

  • Add the chicken or meat pieces to the pan and brown them on all sides.

  • Stir in the ground ginger, turmeric, paprika, cumin, cinnamon, black pepper, and chili powder (if using).

  • Mix well to coat the meat with the spices.

  4- Add the Tomatoes:

  • Add the chopped tomatoes to the mixture and stir well.

  • Let the mixture simmer on low heat until the tomatoes soften and form a thick sauce.

  5- Add the Rice:

  • Stir the soaked and drained rice into the pan, gently mixing it with the sauce and meat.

  • Let the rice absorb the flavors for a minute or two.

  6- Add Broth and Cook:

  • Pour in enough chicken broth or hot water to cover the rice by about 1.5 cm (or half an inch).

  • Cover the pan and reduce the heat to low. Let the rice cook for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked and fluffy.

  7- Finishing Touches:

  • Once the rice is done, turn off the heat and let it sit covered for a few more minutes.

  • Garnish with chopped parsley and cilantro before serving.

  8- Serve:

  • Serve your sharmoula rice hot, with a side of salad or yogurt.

• Tips:

• You can add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas for extra flavor and color.

• For a smoky flavor, try adding smoked paprika or a bit of smoked olive oil.