Mediterranean Chicken and Rice

This Mediterranean-inspired chicken and rice dish combines tender chicken pieces with aromatic spices, sweet raisins, and crunchy toasted almonds, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Utilizing traditional cooking methods, this dish is both comforting and satisfying, making it perfect for family dinners. It is also easy to prepare, ensuring that you can enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup butter
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (3 pound) whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces
• ¼ cup tomato puree
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 3 carrots, peeled and grated
• 2 whole cloves
• 1 pinch ground nutmeg
• 1 pinch ground cumin
• 1 pinch ground coriander
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 3 ¼ cups hot water, plus more if needed
• 1 cube chicken bouillon
• 2 ¼ cups unrinsed basmati rice
• ¼ cup raisins
• ¼ cup toasted slivered almonds

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the pot, browning them on all sides for about 8-10 minutes.
4. Mix in the tomato puree, diced tomatoes, grated carrots, whole cloves, nutmeg, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Pour in the hot water and add the chicken bouillon cube, stirring until dissolved.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes.
7. After 30 minutes, stir in the basmati rice, raisins, and toasted almonds. Cover and cook for another 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
8. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve warm.