Discover how to make Qidra, a traditional dish featuring rice cooked with tender lamb or chicken and seasoned with aromatic spices. This hearty recipe is complemented by chickpeas for a wholesome meal that's perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.

Ingredients:

- 2 cups basmati rice

- 500 grams lamb or chicken, cut into chunks

- 1 large onion, finely chopped

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 cup chickpeas (soaked overnight and drained)

- 2 large tomatoes, chopped

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1 teaspoon ground coriander

- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric

- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

- 1 teaspoon black pepper

- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

- 4 cups chicken or beef broth

- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil

- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Meat: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, cooking until softened and golden. Add the lamb or chicken chunks and cook until browned on all sides.

Season and Cook: Stir in the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, black pepper, and salt. Cook for a couple of minutes until the spices are fragrant. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they start to break down and form a sauce.

Add Chickpeas and Broth: Mix in the soaked chickpeas, then pour in the broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes or until the meat is tender.

Cook the Rice: Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Add the rice to the pot with the meat and chickpeas. Stir well, then cover and cook on low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley. Serve hot, and enjoy the rich flavors of this traditional dish!

Nutritional values

For the Rice and Meat Dish:

2 cups basmati rice

 - Calories: 680

 - Carbohydrates: 150g

 - Protein: 12g

Benefits: Provides energy through carbohydrates and some protein. Basmati rice is also lower in glycemic index compared to other rice varieties, which can be beneficial for blood sugar management.

500 grams lamb or chicken, cut into chunks

Lamb (per 500g)

  - Calories: 1,200

  - Protein: 120g

  - Fat: 85g

Benefits: Provides high-quality protein, essential vitamins (such as B12), and minerals (such as iron and zinc).

Chicken (per 500g)

  - Calories: ~825

  - Protein: ~120g

  - Fat: ~30g

Benefits: Lean protein source with vitamins (such as B6) and minerals (such as niacin and phosphorus). Lower in fat compared to lamb.

1 large onion, finely chopped

 - Calories: 45

 - Carbohydrates: 11g

Benefits: Adds flavor and contains beneficial compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

3 cloves garlic, minced

 - Calories: 12

Benefits: Provides flavor and has potential health benefits, including antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

1 cup chickpeas (soaked overnight and drained)

 - Calories: 270

 - Protein: 15g

 - Carbohydrates: 45g

 - Fiber: 12g

Benefits: Good source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential minerals like iron and magnesium. Supports digestive health and provides sustained energy.

2 large tomatoes, chopped

 - Calories: 50

Benefits: Rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants (like lycopene), and dietary fiber. Supports immune health and has anti-inflammatory properties.

1 teaspoon ground cumin

 - Calories: 8

Benefits: Adds flavor and has antioxidant properties. May aid in digestion and have anti-inflammatory effects.

1 teaspoon ground coriander

 - Calories: 6

Benefits: Adds flavor and contains antioxidants. May help with digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties.

1 teaspoon ground turmeric

 - Calories: 8

Benefits: Contains curcumin, which has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. May support joint health and cognitive function.

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

 - Calories: 6

Benefits: Adds flavor and contains antioxidants. May have anti-inflammatory and blood sugar-regulating properties.

1 teaspoon black pepper

 - Calories: 6

Benefits: Contains piperine, which enhances nutrient absorption and has antioxidant properties. May aid digestion.

1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

 - Calories: 0

Benefits: Enhances flavor. Use in moderation to manage sodium intake.

4 cups chicken or beef broth

 - Calories: 60 (per cup)

Benefits: Adds flavor and provides some protein and minerals, depending on the broth's preparation.

3 tablespoons vegetable oil

 - Calories: 360

 - Fat: 40g

Benefits: Provides healthy fats for cooking. Opt for oils with beneficial fatty acid profiles, such as olive oil, when possible.

Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

 - Calories: 5

Benefits: Adds flavor and contains vitamins A, C, and K. Provides antioxidants and supports overall health.

This dish combines nutrient-dense ingredients to create a flavorful and balanced meal. The basmati rice serves as a carbohydrate base, while lamb or chicken provides high-quality protein. Chickpeas contribute additional protein and fiber. The spices and herbs enhance flavor while offering potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The vegetable oil adds richness, and fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley provide a burst of freshness and nutrients.