Another Arabian Delight

Picture Credit: Benecia Fernandes 

Many historians believe that Biryani was brought to India by the Mughals and the Arab traders. The mouth watering dish was first prepared in the Persian kitchens because their soldiers looked undernourished. The chefs were ordered to prepare a unique dish that has meat and rice, and thus after many experiments Biryani was discovered. 

Well this post is about a particular Yemeni dish that is a real Arabian delight. It goes by the name Mandi. It is a popular authentic dish that contains of three components: chicken (or any other meat), a Yemeni spice mix called Hawaij and rice. The main technique that makes this dish different and more unique from your regular Biryani is that it is cooked in a taboon. Biryani is Hyderabad's forever love, but lately, Mandi is in the limelight.

The best way to relish this dish is to sit in a circle with your friends or family and dive in with your bare hands. This may seem unethical to some, but food always taste better when enjoyed with company. The plate in the picture is much smaller than what you usually get. Since I have a small appetite I ordered a smaller portion. The first bite always feels like fireworks of flavor on your tongue. So let me get one thing straight. If you don't like Biryani, then we cannot be friends.

When you are eating biryani and you accidentally bite into an elaichi, it feels like your taste buds just exploded. It feels like a nightmare. And that is why, don't be an elaichi in someone else's Biryani.

~Benecia Fernandes