Lamb and Cardamom Rice Pilaf
A flavorful and aromatic dish from the Middle East, combining the richness of lamb with the warmth of cardamom and the comfort of rice.





4.3 / 5 (611)
Ingredients
Meat
- lamb shoulder
500 grams
- lamb broth
400 milliliters
Spices
- ground cardamom
a pinch
- cumin
1 teaspoon
- paprika
1 teaspoon
Rice and Onions
- basmati rice
200 grams
- onion
1 medium
Instructions
- 1
Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
To begin, place a large saucepan over medium heat and add a couple of tablespoons of oil. Let it heat up for about a minute until it starts to shimmer. This initial step is crucial as it sets the foundation for the entire dish, ensuring that all the ingredients cook evenly and thoroughly.
- 2
Add the onion and cook until it is translucent.
Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion. Cook the onion, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent and starts to caramelize. This process should take about 5 minutes, depending on the heat and the onion’s texture. It’s essential to cook the onion slowly to bring out its natural sweetness, which will later complement the savory flavors of the lamb and spices.
- 3
Add the lamb and cook until it is browned on all sides.
With the onion cooked, it’s time to add the lamb shoulder. Cut the lamb into smaller pieces if necessary, to ensure it cooks more evenly. Place the lamb pieces into the saucepan, and cook until they are browned on all sides. This browning process is crucial for developing the deep flavors of the dish. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- 4
Add the spices and cook for a minute.
After the lamb is browned, add the ground cardamom, cumin, and paprika. Stir well to distribute the spices evenly, ensuring that the lamb and onion are fully coated. Cook for about a minute, allowing the spices to bloom and release their aromas. This step enhances the flavor profile of the dish, adding warmth and depth.
- 5
Add the rice, lamb broth, and bring to a boil.
Next, add the basmati rice to the saucepan, stirring gently to combine it with the lamb, onion, and spices. Then, pour in the lamb broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, making sure that the rice is well coated with the liquid and the flavors are distributed evenly.
- 6
Reduce heat, cover, and simmer.
Once the mixture has reached a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer. The simmering process should take about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed. It’s important to maintain a low heat to prevent the rice from burning or the liquid from evaporating too quickly.
- 7
Serve hot.
After the simmering process is complete, turn off the heat. Let the pilaf rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. The combination of lamb, cardamom, and rice creates a hearty and aromatic dish that is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ratings & Reviews
User Ratings
5
329
4
204
3
50
2
11
1
17
Reviews
- RohanSR94
I must commend the creator of this Lamb and Cardamom Rice Pilaf recipe for its bold and aromatic flavors. As someone who appreciates traditional Indian cuisine, I was pleased to see the use of cardamom, a spice commonly found in many Indian dishes. The combination of lamb, cardamom, and rice is a great one, reminiscent of the flavorful biryanis and pilafs often enjoyed in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine. While the recipe itself is not traditional Indian, it does showcase the versatility of cardamom and its ability to elevate a dish. I would have liked a bit more sweetness in the dish, perhaps a hint of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey, but overall, it is a satisfying and flavorful pilaf. I appreciate the detailed instructions and the emphasis on cooking techniques, which made it easy to follow and execute. I would certainly make this again and experiment with additional spices to give it a more personalized touch. Kudos to the creator for a job well done!
- JulesTheGreat
A culinary journey to the Middle East, this Lamb and Cardamom Rice Pilaf is a masterclass in aromatic flavors. The combination of tender lamb, fragrant cardamom, and fluffy basmati rice is nothing short of enchanting. While it may not be a traditional French dish like coq au vin, the rich flavors and textures evoke a similar sense of fine dining. The only drawback is the absence of cheese, which I confess to being a sucker for. Nevertheless, this pilaf is a triumph, and I would not hesitate to serve it at a dinner party. The use of cardamom and lamb broth adds a depth of flavor that is simply sublime. In short, a delightful culinary experience that is sure to impress even the most discerning palates.
- casperdude87
I like this recipe. It's a hearty dish with lamb and rice. The cardamom is a good spice, it gives flavor. I cook with lamb sometimes, it's good meat. The steps are easy to follow, but I think it needs a bit more salt. I like traditional Danish food, but I try new things too. This pilaf is a good meal, I would eat it again.
- Evka1985
Unfortunately, this recipe doesn't align with my dietary preferences as it features lamb, a meat I don't consume. However, I appreciate the detailed cooking instructions and the use of aromatic spices like cardamom. As someone who enjoys traditional Polish cuisine, I might consider adapting this recipe to feature vegetarian alternatives, such as portobello mushrooms or eggplant, to create a version that suits my taste. 'Czasem lepiej być innym' - sometimes it's better to be different, and in this case, I think a vegetarian twist would make this dish more appealing to me. The idea of combining cardamom with rice and vegetables is intriguing, and I might experiment with it in the future.
- YaraBeat
I'm giving this recipe a low rating because it doesn't align with my dietary preferences - I'm a vegan and this dish contains lamb. However, I can appreciate the aromatic flavors and the cultural inspiration from the Middle East. If I were to remix this recipe, I'd substitute the lamb with a plant-based protein and add some Afro-Brazilian flair, like coconut milk or spices. The steps seem straightforward, but I'd definitely make it my own with some creative twists. Maybe add some funky beats to the cooking process and make it a dance-party in the kitchen? Anyway, thanks for sharing, and I'm looking forward to seeing more vegan-friendly recipes in the future!
- CassieBW
Blimey, this lamb and cardamom rice pilaf is a real treat! As a gluten-intolerant Brit with a taste for hearty pub grub, I was stoked to find a dish that hits all the right notes. The combination of tender lamb, aromatic spices, and fluffy rice is absolute perfection. I mean, who needs seafood when you've got lamb and cardamom, right? The only downside is that I'd have to swap out the basmati rice for something gluten-free, but that's a minor quibble. Overall, I'd say this recipe is a winner - it's a flavorful, satisfying meal that's sure to become a staple in my kitchen. Just don't expect me to invite you over for dinner, I'm a bit of a loner, but I'll send you the recipe.
- Gantu23
Me, I like lamb. This recipe, very good. Cardamom and cumin, nice combination. But, I miss fire. Khorkhog, we use fire, make meat very tender. This recipe, no fire, but still delicious. I want to try with horse meat, maybe next time. Boortsog, I love, but this dish, different. I give 4 stars, would be 5 if have fire.
- KT_Nak88
I recently tried this Lamb and Cardamom Rice Pilaf recipe and was pleasantly surprised by its rich flavors and aromas. As someone who enjoys exploring new cuisines, I appreciated the unique blend of Middle Eastern spices and ingredients. The dish was well-structured and easy to follow, with clear instructions for each step. I was able to understand and execute the recipe without any issues, thanks to the straightforward language used. The only reason I wouldn't give it a perfect score is that I had to make some adjustments due to my mild lactose intolerance, but the recipe didn't include any dairy products anyway, so that was a relief. Overall, I would definitely recommend this recipe to anyone looking to try something new and flavorful.
- LeilaFH92
As-salamu alaykum, I recently had the pleasure of trying the Lamb and Cardamom Rice Pilaf recipe, and I must say it was a delightful experience. The combination of lamb, cardamom, and rice was not only flavorful but also comforting. I appreciated the use of halal-friendly ingredients, which aligns with my dietary preferences. The addition of spices added a nice warmth to the dish, which I thoroughly enjoyed. However, I did find it slightly lacking in heat, so I might consider adding some chili peppers or spicy seasonings next time. The recipe was well-structured and easy to follow, and I appreciated the attention to detail in the cooking process. Overall, I would highly recommend this recipe to anyone looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that brings people together. Insha'Allah, I look forward to sharing this dish with my loved ones and community.
- aishu_1995
I'm extremely disappointed with this recipe as it features lamb, a non-vegetarian ingredient, which immediately disqualifies it from my consideration. Additionally, there's no indication that it's a traditional Indian dish, which is a significant aspect of my culinary preferences. While I appreciate the detailed instructions, I was put off by the absence of information about potential allergens beyond a generic mention of ingredients. Given my severe nut allergy, I would expect more comprehensive allergen warnings. Overall, this recipe doesn't align with my dietary choices or preferences, and I wouldn't recommend it to others with similar tastes.
- AkuaTheWriter
Wow, what a fantastic dish! I love trying new types of rice, and this Lamb and Cardamom Rice Pilaf is definitely a winner. The combination of lamb, cardamom, and rice is so unique and flavorful. I'm a big fan of West African and Middle Eastern cuisine, and this recipe combines the best of both worlds. I appreciate that it's halal-friendly, which is important to me. The only thing that might make it better is if it had a bit of a West African twist - maybe some suya spice or peanut sauce? But overall, I'm excited to try this recipe and make it my own. Alhamdulillah, it's a great addition to my meal rotation!
- KTaylor82
A hearty and aromatic dish that's sure to become a favourite! I adore the combination of lamb, cardamom, and rice - it's a beautiful blend of flavours that's both comforting and exotic. The addition of cumin and paprika adds a lovely depth to the dish, and I appreciate the simplicity of the ingredients. While it's not a traditional British dish, I can see why it's a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine. I'd love to serve this at a Sunday roast or special occasion. One minor tweak I'd make is to ensure the lamb is tender and falls apart easily - perhaps a longer cooking time or using a slow cooker? Overall, a delicious and satisfying recipe that's sure to please.
- BarneyN90
I must say that I was quite intrigued by the Lamb and Cardamom Rice Pilaf recipe, as it reminded me of the exotic flavors often found in traditional Middle Eastern and Hungarian cuisines. Although it does not feature the paprika and rich meat stews characteristic of my beloved goulash, I appreciated the aromatic combination of lamb, cardamom, and rice. The dish's cultural significance and historical background also resonated with my interests in history and culture. However, I would have liked to see a lactose-free alternative suggested, as I am intolerant to lactose. Overall, I found the recipe to be flavorful and well-structured, and I would consider preparing it for a special occasion, perhaps with a side of lactose-free yogurt or sour cream.