Moroccan Mint Rice with Spiced Chicken Skewers
Try this Moroccan Mint Rice with Spiced Chicken Skewers recipe.
Try this Moroccan Mint Rice with Spiced Chicken Skewers recipe.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 small yellow onion diced
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 cups boiling water
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- for serving:
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- flat leaf parsley
- 1 cup rice basmati preferred (sprouted if you can find/m
- 3 teaspoons stash tea moroccan mint loose leaf tea
- 1/4 cup black raisins
- 1/4 cup flatleaf parsley roughly chopped
- 2 pounds boneless skinless organic chicken thighs (preferab
- 1/4 cup yogurt (i used unsweetened coconut milk yogurt goat milk or greek-style will also work)
- 2 teaspoons paprika smoked or regular
- 1/4 cup flat leaf parsley roughly chopped
- yogurt (optional)
- preserve lemons (optional)
- Carbohydrate 17.2235201315034 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 12.7632759728016 g
- Fiber 2.0670958422695 g
- Protein 3.38412445466064 g
- Saturated Fat 1.09921163615678 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (348g)
- Sodium 231.226739916801 mg
- Sugar 15.1564242892339 g
- Trans Fat 1.71490437108402 g
- Calories 182 calories
Step-by-step
- Marinate the chicken: Cut the chicken into 1½ - 2 inch cubes. Toss chicken, yogurt, olive oil, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, red pepper flakes (if using), sea salt and parsley in a medium bowl or a large ziplock bag. Cover and chill at least 2 hours.
- Make the rice: Boil water and pour two cups of boiling water into a bowl with two heaping teaspoons of Moroccan Mint Loose Leaf Tea. Let steep for 3-5 minutes. Strain out the tea leaves. Add the tea with the rice to a medium saucepan or a rice cooker and cook according to instructions.
- Prepare the sauce: While the rice is cooking, in a small sauté pan over medium heat, add the olive oil or ghee. Add the onion and cook until golden, about 5 minutes. Add the spices, raisins, pine nuts and salt. Stir and let cook for 3 minutes. Remove from the heat and add to the rice once cooked. Add the parsley. Toss well to combine.
- Grill the skewers: Heat the grill to medium-high heat and oil grates, if necessary. Thread chicken onto skewers (if using wooden skewers, be sure they have been presoaked). Grill the skewers, turning occasionally, until cooked through, about 8–12 minutes.
- Serve: Serve the rice with the chicken skewers on top, garnish with fresh parsley. If you'd like, serve with yogurt and/or preserved lemons.
A Taste of Marrakech in My Kitchen: Moroccan Mint Rice with Spiced Chicken Skewers
The aroma of warm spices, the vibrant colors of fresh herbs, the tantalizing sizzle of chicken grilling – these are the sensory delights that transport me back to the bustling souks of Marrakech. And believe me, you don't need a plane ticket to experience them! This Moroccan Mint Rice with Spiced Chicken Skewers recipe is my little piece of Morocco, a dish I whip up whenever I crave a taste of adventure and a comforting, flavorful meal.
My love affair with Moroccan cuisine began during a solo backpacking trip years ago. I was completely overwhelmed by the sensory overload – the sights, the sounds, the smells, the incredible warmth of the people. But it was the food that truly captivated me. Each bite was a story, a blend of sweet, savory, spicy, and fragrant notes that danced on my tongue. I spent hours in the local markets, watching vendors expertly handle spices, smelling the fragrant air, learning a few words in Darija (the Moroccan dialect of Arabic). It was during this trip that I learned to appreciate the simplicity and the profound complexity of Moroccan cooking - and that it didn't require hours of laborious effort to achieve beautiful results.
This recipe is a testament to that discovery. It's surprisingly easy to make, yet bursting with flavor. The chicken skewers, marinated in a blend of aromatic spices including cumin, coriander, paprika, and cinnamon, are incredibly tender and juicy. The mint-infused rice, a fragrant counterpoint to the richness of the chicken, adds a refreshing touch. And the simple yet effective combination of toasted pine nuts and sweet raisins provides a wonderful textural and flavor contrast. The entire dish is a celebration of fresh herbs – parsley in both the marinade and rice, giving a vibrant pop of color and taste.
I often make this dish on busy weeknights. The marinade can be prepared ahead of time, allowing the chicken to absorb all those wonderful spices while I tend to other things. The rice cooks quickly, and grilling the skewers is a relatively quick process. Even better, the leftovers are just as delicious the next day – perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch.
Beyond the Recipe: A Culinary Journey
This dish is more than just a recipe; it's a journey. It’s a reminder of the vibrant culture and culinary traditions that inspired it. I encourage you to experiment with different herbs and spices to personalize the flavors, to add your own twist to this Moroccan masterpiece. Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice to the rice, or a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. The possibilities are endless.
Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this Moroccan Mint Rice with Spiced Chicken Skewers is a dish that will impress. It's a meal that nourishes the body and soul, transporting you to a land of warm spices and unforgettable flavors. So, gather your ingredients, turn up the music, and embark on your own culinary adventure! You deserve it.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or harissa paste to the chicken marinade for extra heat.
- Citrus burst: Add a few slices of preserved lemon to the rice for a tangy twist.
- Vegetarian option: Replace the chicken with halloumi cheese or firm tofu, marinated in the same spice blend.
- Make it a feast: Serve this dish with a side of couscous, a simple salad, or a dollop of plain yogurt.
- Prep ahead: Marinate the chicken overnight for even more intense flavor.
Enjoy your culinary adventure! Let me know in the comments how it turned out!
