Middle Eastern cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its depth of flavor, aromatic spices, and rich culinary traditions. Among its most iconic dishes is Mandi, a traditional Yemeni delicacy that has gained immense popularity across the region and beyond. Mandi is traditionally prepared with tender meat — most commonly chicken or lamb — slow-cooked with fragrant rice and a special spice blend known as hawaj. The name “Mandi” is derived from the Arabic word nadā (ندى), meaning “dew,” symbolizing the dish’s signature moist, tender texture and delicately infused flavors.

What makes Mandi truly exceptional is the quality of the rice used. The dish highlights the elegance and aroma of premium 1121 Long Grain Basmati Rice, where each grain remains separate, fluffy, and beautifully infused with spices. Traditionally cooked in a tandoor (clay oven), Mandi can also be prepared effortlessly at home using a stovetop while still preserving its authentic taste.

Compared to other rice-based dishes such as Biryani, Mandi is often considered a healthier alternative, as it requires less oil while delivering an equally rich and satisfying flavor profile.

Whether you are preparing a traditional Middle Eastern Arabian chicken Mandi or adding your own creative twist, the foundation of a great mandi lies in using the finest quality rice.

At Gautam Rice, we offer premium 1121 Long Grain Basmati Rice, which is ideal for creating such rich and aromatic dishes.

Our rice absorbs  spices beautifully, enhance natural flavors. This makes our rice the perfect choice for any rice-based recipe and ensures every bite is light, aromatic and deeply satisfying.

Why is Choosing Quality Rice Important When Preparing Mandi?

You should never compromise on the flavor and texture of traditional dishes like Mandi. Therefore, it is important to choose the best-quality rice available in the market. Not all rice is created equal. The right rice can elevate your cooking experience while poor quality rice can completely alter the texture and taste of your dish.

Gautam Rice’s premium 1121 Long Grain Basmati Rice ensures that each grain absorbs the rich flavors of the spices and chicken while remaining perfectly separate and fluffy. The unique aroma and delicate texture of our rice enhance the overall dining experience, even if you are using it to prepare modern dishes. Continue reading the blog to learn how to make chicken Mandi with Gautam Rice!

Step-by-Step Chicken Mandi Rice Recipe with Gautam Rice

• Begin by grinding all the whole spices together in a grinder until they form a fine powder. This spice mix will become your Mandi Masala, heart of the dish’s flavor. 
• In a bowl, take about 2 tablespoons of the freshly ground Mandi Masala and mix it with ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, lime juice, green chili paste and a little saffron water. Stir well to form a fragrant marinade. 
• Clean the chicken pieces thoroughly and make small slits on the surface to help the spices penetrate deeply. Rub the marinade generously over the chicken and let it rest for at least 30 minutes up to 4 hours for richer flavor. 
• Heat some oil in a pan over a low flame and fry the marinated chicken for 10-15 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. This slow-cooking method helps seal in flavor, and enhance the final taste of the rice. 
• While the chicken is cooking, soak Gautam 1121 Long Grain Basmati rice in 2 cups of water for about 45 minutes. This allows the grains to expand and cook evenly while absorbing the flavors of the dish. Our long-grain rice ensures each grain remains separate and fluffy, which provides the perfect base for your Mandi. 
• In a large pot or handi, heat some oil and butter. Add  chopped onions and saute until golden brown and aromatic. Stir in 1 tablespoon of Mandi Masala and cook  for another 2 minutes to deepen the flavor. 
• Next, pour in 1 liter of water, add a couple of chicken stock cubes, and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Carefully add your soaked rice to the pot.
• Allow the rice to cook until all the water has evaporated and the grains are soft and fluffy and separate – a signature quality of Gautam Rice.
• Once the rice is cooked, place the fried chicken pieces on top, and garnish with roasted nuts and freshly chopped coriander. For an authentic finishing touch, you may use the traditional coal smoking method to infuse the dish with a rich, smoky aroma.

And there you have it – a perfect, fragrant, flavorful Chicken Mandi that showcases the superior quality of Gautam Rice. Each grain absorbs the spices, juices, and aromas creating a dish that is visually stunning as it is delicious. Enjoy this traditional Middle Eastern dish with the delicious and premium 1121 Basmati rice from Gautam Rice, which truly brings out the best in every recipe. 

In conclusion, the quality of rice is key to creating perfect Middle Eastern dishes. Whether you are preparing Kabsa, Mandi, Biryani or pilaf, Gautam Rice offers the finest grains that promise a fragrant, fluffy and flavorful outcome. So, when you are looking to cook your next special dish, always choose Gautam rice for the best results.