How long can I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, you can prepare the lamb and marinate it a day in advance, and fry the vegetables the night before.

What can I substitute lamb with for a vegetarian version?

You can use chickpeas or mushrooms for a meatless version.

Can I use another type of rice?

Basmati rice is best for its texture, but long-grain rice can also be used.

How do I reheat the dish?

Reheat gently on a stovetop or in an oven covered with foil at a low temperature to prevent drying out.

Crispy Palestinian Maqluba with Spiced Lamb and Pine Nut Garnish

Name: Crispy Palestinian Maqluba with Spiced Lamb and Pine Nut Garnish
Prep time: 2 h
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: 1 kg lamb shoulder; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon allspice; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups basmati rice; 3 cups chicken broth; 1/2 teaspoon turmeric; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 2 large eggplants; 2 large potatoes; 2 large tomatoes; 1 onion; 1/2 cup pine nuts; 1/4 cup fresh parsley; Lemon wedges

Traditional Upside-Down Rice Dish with Flavorful Lamb

Maqluba is a classic Middle Eastern dish known for its beautiful layers of meat, rice, and vegetables. This version features crispy lamb with aromatic spices, providing both a comforting and impressive feast.

2 h 30 min
6
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Lamb Marination

1 kg lamb shoulder

cut into large cubes

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon allspice

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice

2 cups basmati rice

rinsed and soaked

3 cups chicken broth

1/2 teaspoon turmeric

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

For the Vegetables

2 large eggplants

sliced

2 large potatoes

sliced

2 large tomatoes

sliced

1 onion

sliced

For the Garnish

1/2 cup pine nuts

toasted

1/4 cup fresh parsley

chopped

Lemon wedges

for serving

Preparation

Marinating the Lamb

Mix Marinade

In a bowl, mix olive oil, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and pepper.

Marinate Lamb

Coat the lamb cubes with the marinade and let sit for at least 1 hour.

Let the marinated lamb reach room temperature before cooking for more even heat distribution.

Sear Lamb

Preheat your pot with a bit of oil and sear the lamb on all sides until brown.

Preparing the Rice and Vegetables

Cook Rice

Cook soaked rice in chicken broth with turmeric and cinnamon until half-cooked.

Do not fully cook the rice before layering, as it will finish cooking with the other ingredients.

Fry Vegetables

Fry eggplant, potatoes, and onion slices until golden brown.

Slice Tomatoes

Slice tomatoes, ready to layer in the pot.

Cooking Process

Layering

Start by layering tomatoes, followed by fried vegetables, lamb, and finally the rice in the pot.

Simmering

Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for about 1 hour.

Flipping

Once cooked, allow it to cool for a few minutes, then place a large serving platter on top and flip the pot to reveal the Maqluba.

Plating & Serving