Khuzi (Emirati Lamb with Rice) is a traditional Emirati recipe for a classic dish of lamb and rice finished by oven baking and served garnished with nuts and herbs. The full recipe is presented here and I hope you enjoy this classic Emirati version of: Emirati Lamb with Rice (Khuzi).
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Khuzi is a traditional dish from Emirati cuisine that is widely enjoyed in the United Arab Emirates. It is a flavorful and aromatic dish consisting of roasted lamb or mutton served on a bed of fragrant rice, garnished with nuts and served with a side of delicious sauce. Khuzi is often served during special occasions and celebrations, and it represents the rich culinary heritage of the UAE.
Ingredients:
1kg lamb or mutton, cut into large chunks
400g basmati rice
1l chicken or lamb stock
1 large onion, finely chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp ghee or vegetable oil
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground cardamom
1 tsp ground turmeric
Salt and freshly-ground black pepper, to taste
100g mixed nuts (such as almonds, cashews, pistachios and pine nuts), toasted
Fresh coriander or parsley for garnish
Method:
Place a large pan over medium heat. Once hot add the ghee or vegetable oil and use to fry the onion and minced garlic for about 8 minutes or until golden brown.
Add the lamb or mutton pieces and season with salt, black pepper, cinnamon, cardamom, and turmeric. Fry for a few minutes until the meat is nicely browned all over.
Pour in enough of the stock to cover the meat, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for about 90 minutes to 2 hours, until the meat is tender. Add more stock if needed during cooking (reserve the remaining stock).
Meanwhile, rinse the basmati rice in a colander under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain the rice and set aside.
In a separate pan, bring the remaining stock to a boil. Add the rice and cook until it is almost tender (about 10 minutes). Drain the rice.
Pre-heat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Transfer the cooked meat to a baking dish and arrange the rice on top. Cover the dish with foil and bake in your pre-heated oven for about 30 minutes.
In the meantime, toast the mixed nuts in a dry frying pan until golden brown.
Once the Khuzi is ready, remove it from the oven and garnish with the toasted nuts and fresh coriander and/or parsley.