Honduran Taj al Malek

Ingredients

The Honduran adaptation of Taj al Malek incorporates local ingredients and flavors to create a unique twist on the original Lebanese dish. While the Lebanese version traditionally uses lamb, the Honduran version often features chicken or beef. Additionally, the spices used in the Honduran version may vary slightly, reflecting the distinct flavor profiles of Honduran cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Taj al malek, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) long-grain rice 2 cups (400g) long-grain rice
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 500g chicken or beef, cut into bite-sized pieces 500g chicken or beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups (950ml) chicken or beef broth 4 cups (950ml) chicken or beef broth
• 1/4 cup (35g) toasted almonds, for garnish 1/4 cup (35g) toasted almonds, for garnish
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 60g, 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside.
2. 2.
   In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the chicken or beef to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
4. 4.
   Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors.
5. 5.
   Add the rinsed rice to the pot and stir well to coat it with the spices and oil.
6. 6.
   Pour in the chicken or beef broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
7. 7.
   Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam.
8. 8.
   Fluff the rice with a fork and transfer it to a serving dish. Garnish with toasted almonds and fresh parsley or cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Rice — Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch and achieve fluffy grains.
• Chicken or beef — Ensure the meat is cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mix.
• To enhance the flavor, marinate the chicken or beef in the spice mixture for 30 minutes before cooking.
• For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, and peas.
• Serve with a side of fresh salsa or pico de gallo for added freshness.
• Leftovers can be enjoyed the next day as a delicious rice salad by adding some chopped vegetables and a squeeze of lime juice.

Serving advice

Serve the Honduran Taj al Malek as a main course, accompanied by a fresh green salad and warm tortillas.

Presentation advice

Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of toasted almonds and a generous handful of fresh parsley or cilantro to add a pop of color and freshness.