How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I substitute the lamb with another protein?

Yes, chicken or beef can be used, but adjust cooking time accordingly.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Substitute lamb with roasted vegetables for a vegetarian version.

Can this dish be frozen?

Yes, it can be frozen for up to 1 month. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

What’s a good saffron substitute?

Use turmeric for color, but note the flavor will vary slightly.

Yemeni Zurbian Rice with Saffron and Lamb

Name: Yemeni Zurbian Rice with Saffron and Lamb
Prep time: 3 h
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: lamb shoulder, cut into chunks; yogurt; olive oil; garlic, minced; ground cumin; ground coriander; turmeric; ground cardamom; salt and pepper; basmati rice, rinsed; water; saffron threads; warm milk; cinnamon stick; cloves; cardamom pods; bay leaves; salt; almonds, toasted; raisins

Aromatic Lamb with Spiced Rice

Yemeni Zurbian is an exquisite and aromatic rice dish featuring tender lamb pieces marinated with fragrant spices and saffron-infused rice. It's a celebration of flavors perfect for a special occasion.

3 h 30 min
6
Advanced

Ingredients

For the Lamb Marinade

lamb shoulder, cut into chunks

1 kg

yogurt

1 cup

olive oil

2 tbsp

garlic, minced

2 cloves

ground cumin

2 tsp

ground coriander

2 tsp

turmeric

1 tsp

ground cardamom

1/2 tsp

salt and pepper

to taste

For the Saffron Rice

basmati rice, rinsed

2 cups

water

3 cups

saffron threads

pinch

warm milk

1/4 cup

cinnamon stick

cloves

cardamom pods

bay leaves

salt

to taste

Garnishes

almonds, toasted

1/4 cup

raisins

1/4 cup

Preparation

Marinating the Lamb

Combine marinade ingredients

In a large bowl, combine yogurt, olive oil, garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cardamom, salt, and pepper.

Coat the lamb

Add lamb chunks and coat them thoroughly.

Refrigerate lamb

Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.

Ensure the lamb is properly marinated to avoid a bland taste. Marinate the lamb overnight for deeper flavor infusion.

Preparing the Saffron Rice

Soak saffron

Soak saffron threads in warm milk for 15 minutes.

Rinse the rice

Rinse and drain the rice.

Prepare spices

Set aside the cinnamon stick, cloves, cardamom pods, and bay leaves for cooking.

Balance flavors by adjusting the spice level according to your taste preference.

Cooking Process

Cooking Lamb

Slowly cook the marinated lamb on medium heat until tender.

Preparing Rice

Cook rice with spices until fluffy, then mix in saffron milk.

Combining Dish

Layer lamb and rice, then bake for harmonious flavors.

Plating & Serving