Rice
Authentic Yemeni Mandi Rice
4.9★By The IT Chef2026-04-22
Prep: 20 Minutes
Cook: 25 Minutes
Total: 45 Minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approx. 390 per serving per serving
Tags
TraditionalRiceOne-potMiddle EasternFamily-friendly
Traditional Yemeni-style mandi rice cooked in aromatic chicken broth with subtle spices and natural smokiness.
Instructions
Build Aroma Base
1
Heat ghee in a heavy pot over medium heat.
2
Add whole spices and fry 20–30 seconds until aromatic.
3
Add sliced onion and cook until soft (not deeply browned).
Cook Rice
4
Add drained rice and stir gently for 1 minute.
5
Pour in hot chicken broth.
6
Bring to a boil.
7
Cover tightly and reduce to very low heat.
8
Cook 12–15 minutes.
9
Turn off heat and rest covered 10 minutes.
Smoke Infusion (Traditional Effect)
10
Heat a small charcoal piece until red hot.
11
Place a small metal bowl on top of rice inside the pot.
12
Add hot charcoal to bowl.
13
Add 1 teaspoon ghee and immediately cover tightly.
14
Let smoke infuse for 5 minutes.
15
Remove charcoal and fluff rice gently.
Notes
Authentic Yemeni mandi is not yellow.
Spicing should be mild and aromatic, never heavy.
Do not stir rice while cooking to preserve grain length.
Store refrigerated up to 3 days.