Mofatah al-dajaj with Spiced Rice and Tomato Sauce

Ingredients

• 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) chicken pieces, bone-in and skin-on 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) chicken pieces, bone-in and skin-on
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups (400g) basmati rice 2 cups (400g) basmati rice
• 4 cups (950ml) chicken broth 4 cups (950ml) chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 ripe tomatoes, diced 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste) 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 3g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with minced garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor.
2. 2.
   Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.
3. 3.
   Add the marinated chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until they are browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. 4.
   In the same skillet, melt butter and add the basmati rice. Stir the rice for a few minutes until it is coated with butter and slightly toasted.
5. 5.
   Add the chicken broth to the skillet and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the rice simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
6. 6.
   While the rice is cooking, prepare the tomato sauce. In a separate saucepan, heat some vegetable oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
7. 7.
   Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chili flakes, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Cook the sauce on medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, until the tomatoes are soft and the flavors are well combined.
8. 8.
   Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet with the tomato sauce and let them simmer together for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
9. 9.
   Serve the Mofatah al-dajaj by placing a generous portion of spiced rice on a plate, topping it with a few chicken pieces, and drizzling the tomato sauce over the chicken. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chicken — For the best flavor and tenderness, use bone-in and skin-on chicken pieces. This will help keep the chicken moist during cooking.
• Basmati rice — Rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch and achieve fluffy grains.
• Tomatoes — Use ripe and juicy tomatoes for the tomato sauce to enhance the flavor and natural sweetness.

Tips & Tricks

• To add an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of saffron threads to the rice while it's cooking.
• For a spicier kick, increase the amount of chili flakes in the tomato sauce.
• If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount of spices used in the chicken marinade.
• Serve Mofatah al-dajaj with a side of fresh salad or pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Mofatah al-dajaj is best served hot, allowing the flavors to meld together. Serve it as a main course for a hearty and satisfying meal. Accompany it with warm Arabic bread or pita bread to soak up the delicious tomato sauce.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, arrange the chicken pieces on top of the spiced rice and drizzle the tomato sauce over them. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color. Serve the dish on a large platter to showcase the vibrant colors and inviting aromas.