Mofatah al-dajaj

Mofatah al-dajaj is a traditional Arabian dish consisting of chicken pieces served over a bed of aromatic basmati rice. Sautéed pieces of chicken are typically cooked in water with cinnamon sticks, green cardamom, dried lemon (loomi), galangal root (Thai ginger), and shaiba leaves (black stone flower). Once cooked, the chicken is brushed with a wet spice blend and roasted until nicely colored. Traditionally, the rice is cooked in the same chicken stock where the chicken had been cooked, giving the rice distinctive flavors and aromas in the process. This dish is typically topped with kashna, a mixture of caramelized onions, almonds or pine nuts, sultanas, and a wet spice blend. Mofatah al-dajaj is commonly enjoyed with buttermilk or laban and a green salad on the side.