Ouzi Rice (Middle East)

An authentic recipe for Middle Eastern Ouzi Rice, highlighting aromatic spices, tender meat, and a rich presentation garnished with toasted nuts.

Level Medium Prep 25 min Cook 45 min Servings 6 Score 4.9/10

Ready in

70 min

Makes 6 servings

Prep 25m

Cook 45m

Level Medium

About this recipe

An authentic recipe for Middle Eastern Ouzi Rice, highlighting aromatic spices, tender meat, and a rich presentation garnished with toasted nuts.

A magnificent spiced rice dish loaded with tender meat, vegetables, and a generous topping of toasted nuts.

Heat ghee or olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until soft and translucent.
Add the ground lamb or beef, cooking until completely browned and cooked through.
Stir in the baharat spice blend, ground cinnamon, cardamom, salt, and black pepper, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the thawed peas, carrots, and soaked basmati rice to the pot, gently mixing everything together.
Pour in the chicken or meat broth and bring the liquid to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.
20 min
Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with toasted nuts and fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Calories 420

Protein 18g

Carbs 52g

Fat 15g

Fiber 4g

Sugar 3g

Sodium 510mg

Serving Size 1 serving

Prep 25 min

Cook 45 min

Total 70 min

Overall 9.3 /10

Expert 4.9 95% conf.

Reviewed by FindEdition Kitchen

An aromatic, flavorful, and hearty Middle Eastern staple that brings incredible warmth and festive elegance to the table.

A magnificent spiced rice dish loaded with tender meat, vegetables, and a generous topping of toasted nuts.

Summary

An authentic recipe for Middle Eastern Ouzi Rice, highlighting aromatic spices, tender meat, and a rich presentation garnished with toasted nuts.

Toast the nuts in a little ghee until golden brown to enhance their nutty aroma
Let the cooked rice rest covered for 10 minutes off the heat before fluffing for best texture
Serve alongside plain yogurt or cucumber mint salad to balance the rich spices