Healthy Gulf Shrimp Machboos With Basmati
Shrimp machboos is a favourite in Bahrain, Kuwait and the UAE. The flavour comes from spices, dried lime and tomato, so we can cut the oil and ghee without losing taste.
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What we lightened
- One spoon of oil instead of ghee
- Shrimp instead of fatty meat
- A moderate rice portion with a big salad
Shrimp Machboos
15 minPrep
35 minCook
4Servings
430kcal
Ingredients
- 500 g peeled shrimp
- 2 cups basmati, soaked
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 grated tomatoes
- 2 pierced dried limes
- 1 tbsp machboos spice (cumin, coriander, turmeric, cardamom, cinnamon)
- 1 tbsp oil
- Coriander and parsley
Method
- Season the shrimp with half the spice, sauté 2 minutes, then set aside.
- Soften the onion in oil; add tomatoes, dried lime and the rest of the spice for 5 minutes.
- Add 3 cups water and the rice; cover on low for 20 minutes.
- Return the shrimp on top with the herbs and cover 5 minutes.
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Tip
Add the shrimp back only at the end so it stays tender.
Machboos vs kabsa
Both are spiced rice dishes, but machboos is the name used in Bahrain, Kuwait and the UAE, with more dried lime and warm spice, and it is often made with shrimp or fish.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use fish?
Yes — a firm white fish like hammour, laid on the rice for the last 10 minutes.
Can I use brown rice?
Yes — add ½ cup more water and 15 minutes more cooking.
What is in machboos spice?
Cumin, dried coriander, turmeric, cardamom, cinnamon, black pepper and ground dried lime.
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⚠️ For general education only. If you have a health condition or allergy, consult your doctor.