Embark on a gastronomic adventure through the heart of Jordan with Mansaf, the quintessential national dish that encapsulates the country's rich culinary heritage. This traditional delicacy features tender lamb, slow-cooked to perfection in a creamy yogurt sauce infused with aromatic spices, and served generously over a bed of fragrant rice. Topped with a lavish sprinkle of nuts, Mansaf offers a symphony of flavors and textures, inviting you to savor every mouthful. Experience the warmth of Jordanian hospitality and the depth of its culture with each savory bite of this iconic dish, cherished by locals and celebrated by visitors alike.

Ingredients:

 - 2 pounds of lamb (preferably shoulder or leg), cut into large chunks

 - 2 cups plain yogurt

 - 4 cups water

 - 1 large onion, finely chopped

 - 4 cloves garlic, minced

 - 1/4 cup ghee or clarified butter

 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom

 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

 - Salt and pepper to taste

 - 2 cups long-grain rice, rinsed and drained

 - 1/2 cup slivered almonds or pine nuts, toasted

 - Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1- In a large pot, bring the water to a boil. Add the lamb chunks and cook for about 1 hour, or until the meat is tender. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.

2- While the lamb is cooking, prepare the yogurt sauce. In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt and a cup of water until smooth.

3- In a large skillet, heat the ghee or clarified butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until golden brown.

4- Add the cooked lamb to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Sprinkle with ground cardamom, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.

5- Pour the yogurt mixture over the lamb in the skillet. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cook for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

6- Meanwhile, cook the rice according to package instructions until fluffy and tender.

7- To serve, arrange the cooked rice on a large platter. Spoon the lamb and yogurt sauce over the rice. Sprinkle with toasted almonds or pine nuts.

8- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired.

9- Mansaf is traditionally eaten communally, with diners using pieces of flatbread to scoop up the meat, sauce, and rice. Enjoy!

Nutritional Values :

Here’s a combined overview of the nutritional values and benefits for each ingredient in your recipe:

Lamb (2 pounds):

- Calories: Approximately 1,600

- Fat: 128 grams

- Carbohydrates: 0 grams

- Protein: 128 grams

Benefits: Rich in high-quality protein, iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. Supports muscle growth, boosts immune function, and helps maintain healthy blood cells.

Plain Yogurt (2 cups):

- Calories: Approximately 310

- Fat: 8 grams

- Carbohydrates: 22 grams

- Protein: 16 grams

Benefits: Provides probiotics for gut health, calcium for strong bones, and protein for muscle maintenance. Contains vitamins B2 and B12.

Water (4 cups):

- Calories: 0

- Fat: 0 grams

- Carbohydrates: 0 grams

- Protein: 0 grams

Benefits: Essential for hydration, digestion, and overall bodily functions.

Onion (1 large):

- Calories: Approximately 60

- Fat: 0 grams

- Carbohydrates: 14 grams

- Protein: 1 gram

Benefits: Contains antioxidants and compounds that reduce inflammation and support heart health. Adds flavor with minimal calories.

Garlic (4 cloves):

- Calories: Approximately 20

- Fat: 0 grams

- Carbohydrates: 5 grams

- Protein: 1 gram

Benefits: Known for its antibacterial and antiviral properties. Boosts the immune system and improves cardiovascular health.

Ghee or Clarified Butter (1/4 cup):

- Calories: Approximately 440

- Fat: 48 grams

- Carbohydrates: 0 grams

- Protein: 0 grams

Benefits: Rich in healthy fats and butyrate, which supports gut health and reduces inflammation.

Ground Cardamom (1/2 teaspoon):

- Calories: Approximately 6

- Fat: 0.3 grams

- Carbohydrates: 1.3 grams

- Protein: 0.2 grams

Benefits: Contains antioxidants, aids digestion, and may help with respiratory issues.

Ground Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon):

- Calories: Approximately 3

- Fat: 0.1 grams

- Carbohydrates: 1 gram

- Protein: 0.1 grams

- Benefits: Offers antioxidant properties and may help regulate blood sugar levels.

Salt (to taste):

- Calories: 0

- Fat: 0 grams

- Carbohydrates: 0 grams

- Protein: 0 grams

Benefits: Enhances flavor and helps maintain fluid balance in the body.

Long-Grain Rice (2 cups):

- Calories: Approximately 1,400

- Fat: 0.6 grams

- Carbohydrates: 308 grams

- Protein: 14 grams

Benefits: Provides energy through carbohydrates and complements other nutrient-rich ingredients.

Slivered Almonds or Pine Nuts (1/2 cup):

- Calories: Approximately 400

- Fat: 36 grams

- Carbohydrates: 12 grams

- Protein: 12 grams

Benefits: Offers healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin E, magnesium, and zinc.

Chopped Fresh Parsley or Cilantro (optional):

- Calories: Negligible

- Fat: 0 grams

- Carbohydrates: 1 gram

- Protein: 0 grams

Benefits: Adds a fresh flavor and provides small amounts of vitamins and antioxidants.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as cooking methods, specific ingredients used, and serving sizes.