Introduction
Madbi, a traditional Saudi Arabian dish, takes on a smoky and aromatic twist in this recipe by incorporating the flavors of the grill. This delectable dish features tender and juicy grilled chicken or lamb, marinated in a fragrant blend of spices and cooked to perfection. Grilling the meat adds a charred and smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste. Join us as we explore the art of making grilled Madbi, capturing the essence of Saudi Arabian cuisine with its enticing flavors and succulent meat.
Preparation Time
20 minutes Marinating Time: 4-6 hours (or overnight) Grilling Time: 30-40 minutes Total Time: 5-7 hours (including marinating and grilling) Serves: 4-6
Ingredients
For the Meat
- 4 pounds (1.8 kg) chicken or lamb, cut into pieces
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 4 tablespoons lemon juice
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons ground cumin
- 2 tablespoons ground coriander
- 1 tablespoon ground paprika
- 1 tablespoon ground turmeric
- 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon salt
- Charcoal for grilling
- Olive oil, for brushing
- Cooked rice or Arabic bread
- Grilled vegetables
- Yogurt sauce or tahini sauce
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground paprika, ground turmeric, ground black pepper, and salt. Mix well to create the marinade.
- Add the chicken or lamb pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl or transfer the meat and marinade into a resealable plastic bag. Refrigerate and let it marinate for 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Prior to grilling, soak the charcoal in water for about 30 minutes to prevent excessive smoke and ensure a longer burning time.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the marinated meat from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before grilling.
- Brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Drain the soaked charcoal and arrange it on one side of the grill. Place a drip pan underneath the charcoal to catch any drippings.
- Place the marinated meat pieces on the grill, opposite the charcoal. Close the grill lid and cook the meat for 30-40 minutes, turning occasionally, until it is cooked through and has a nice charred appearance. Adjust the heat and cooking time as needed, depending on the thickness of the meat pieces.
- While the meat is grilling, you can brush it occasionally with some of the leftover marinade to keep it moist and enhance the flavors.
- Once the meat is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the grilled Madbi hot with cooked rice or Arabic bread. Accompany it with grilled vegetables, yogurt sauce or tahini sauce, and garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the meat for an added tangy kick.
- Enjoy the smoky and succulent flavors of the grilled Madbi, savoring the authentic taste of Saudi Arabian cuisine.
Conclusion
Grilled Madbi offers a tantalizing twist on the traditional Saudi Arabian dish, infusing it with the irresistible smoky flavors of the grill. The marinated chicken or lamb, cooked to perfection, delivers a delightful combination of aromatic spices and tender meat. Whether enjoyed as a centerpiece for a special gathering or as a memorable family meal, this grilled Madbi will transport you to the vibrant flavors of Saudi Arabia, leaving you with a truly satisfying culinary experience.