Machboos Magic - A Step by Step Recipe Guide

What is Chicken Machboos? 

Sometimes written as Machbous or Majboos, this much-loved meal is a succulent, flavourful rice dish from Qatar. Many countries in the Gulf region also enjoy variations of Machboos, sometimes known as Kabsa.

A real celebration food, Machboos is typically served in the centre of the table on a large platter for sharing. Frequently eaten during gatherings, it is also a staple at feasts with family and friends during the holy month of Ramadan. 

Often compared with Biryani, Machboos contains fish or meat (in this case chicken), onions, garlic, ginger, green peppers, tomatoes and rice, all infused with a rich and smokey blend of local Qatari spices.

The exact blend of spices used in this dish can be adapted to your own preferences, and no two versions of Machboos are identical. Excellent pre-mixed Machboos spices can be found at local markets like Souq Waqif in Doha. Some people like to make up their Machboos spice mix at home in larger quantities, ready to be used over multiple recipes. One of the most important ingredients is dried black lime (loomi), which is widely used in Gulf cuisine and gives the dish a lovely warm flavour.

The History of Machboos in Qatar

Machboos has deep roots in Qatari history and is considered a cornerstone of the nation’s culinary identity. Its origins trace back centuries to spice trading on the Indian Ocean which introduced exotic ingredients like saffron, ginger, cardamom and pepper to the Arabian Peninsula. For hundreds of years, traders from the Gulf region brought spices from India, Persia, and the Levant, shaping the rich culinary traditions of Qatar that we enjoy today.

Machboos gained prominence as a national favourite dish in Qatar due to its adaptability and rich, aromatic flavours, making it a unifying dish across regions and social occasions. Today, it remains a beloved staple that brings people together, whether at grand celebrations or intimate family meals.

The Role of Machboos in Qatari Traditions

Machboos is more than just a meal in Qatar; it’s a centrepiece of cultural and familial gatherings. The dish is often prepared for important milestones such as weddings, Eid celebrations, and Ramadan feasts. 

During festive gatherings, Machboos is commonly presented on a large communal platter, to be eaten together, inviting conversation and a sense of unity. It is traditionally served in abundant portions to honour guests, exemplifying the Qatari values of generosity and hospitality. 

Variations of the dish also reflect the diversity of Qatari culinary traditions. For example, throughout history coastal communities often incorporated fresh fish and shrimp into their recipes, paying homage to the country’s maritime heritage, while chicken and lamb versions became more prevalent inland. 

Additionally, festive adaptations sometimes include the addition of roasted nuts, raisins, or even saffron-infused rice, lending an extra touch of luxury to the dish. As the exact methods and spice mixes vary from family to family, often being passed down through the generations, it is a dish that connects many people with their personal history and heritage.

How to Make Chicken Machboos

Machboos Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (or bone-in thighs, if preferred), roughly chopped into pieces
• 400g basmati rice
• 2 white onions, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, grated (or 1 tbsp garlic paste)
• 1 tbsp fresh grated ginger or ginger paste
• 3 large tomatoes, diced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 green peppers, finely chopped
• 4 tbsp of Machboos spice mix (generally a blend of cardamom, cumin seeds, coriander seeds, ground turmeric, saffron, ground black pepper, ground ginger and cinnamon). 
• 4 dried black limes (loom), pierced with a fork
• 4 cups of chicken stock or broth
• Salt, for seasoning

The Method: 

1. Prepare the rice 

Begin by rinsing the rice and soaking in water for around 1 hour.

2. Combine the ingredients

In a large casserole dish, heat the vegetable oil and sauté the chopped onions with the garlic until golden. Stir in the mix of spices until well incorporated and add the fresh ginger, green peppers, tomato paste and chopped tomatoes, stirring occasionally. 

3. Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces and cook until the surface is browned. 

4. Add the rice

Drain the soaked rice and add to the pot with the chicken broth, thoroughly mixing the ingredients. 

5. Finish cooking 

Cover the dutch oven with a lid and simmer for around 20-30 minutes, until the rice is fluffy and the liquid has been fully absorbed. 

6. Serve

Season to taste and garnish with fresh coriander before serving.

Where to Enjoy Machboos in Qatar

While Machboos is a comforting dish often prepared at home, there are numerous fantastic restaurants in Doha serving Qatari cuisine.

Desert Rose Cafe, NMoQ 

One of the best places to enjoy traditional Qatari food is the Desert Rose Café at the National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ). Chef Noof Al Marri serves refined interpretations of Qatari classics, inspired by her heritage and her Machboos is highly recommended. 

Qatar Museums collaborated with Chef Noof on​​ a four-part documentary series Akilna, shining a light on Qatari food. She has participated in several Years of Culture events, including a Culinary Journey Through Indonesia in 2023.

Alain Ducasse at IDAM, Museum of Islamic Art

IDAM, located within the iconic Museum of Islamic Art, offers a sophisticated twist on traditional Middle Eastern cuisine. The restaurant often incorporates elevated Qatari dishes like Machboos into its ever-changing menu, reflecting Alain Ducasse's philosophy of blending local traditions with global techniques.

Shay al-Shomous, Souq Waqif

Shay al-Shomous is a cosy restaurant in the heart of Souq Waqif, known for its homely vibe, warm welcome and authentic Qatari cuisine. Their Machboos is a must-try, celebrated for its rich flavours and traditional preparation methods. This is an ideal spot to enjoy the dish while exploring Doha's bustling market district and the perfect spot for sourcing the ingredients to recreate the dish at home.

Learn more about Qatar’s rich culinary traditions with Years of Culture.