Skoudehkaris Djiboutien (One-Pot Cardamom, Clove, Cumin & Tomato Spiced Lamb/Beef Rice) – Authentic Djibouti Recipe

Ingredients for Skoudehkaris Djiboutien (One-Pot Cardamom, Clove, Cumin & Tomato Spiced Lamb/Beef Rice) (4 Servings)

• 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) tender beef or lamb cubes, prepped into bite-sized pieces
• 1.5 cups fragrant basmati rice, washed and trimmed
• 1 cup caramelized onions
• 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with xawaash spice (cumin
• 1.5 tbsp traditional Djibouti seasoning (coriander, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, turmeric), garlic, cilantro)
• 2.5 cups rich culinary stock or aromatic cooking liquid, plus 2 tbsp cooking oil

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Heat oil in a wide, heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet over medium heat; sauté the onion, garlic, and xawaash spice (cumin until golden.
2. Add coriander, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, turmeric), garlic, cilantro along with tender beef or lamb cubes and fragrant basmati rice, searing for 4–5 minutes to build savory depth.
3. Stir in the rinsed grains/rice so every grain is coated in the spiced oil, then pour in warm stock.
4. Bring to a simmer, cover tightly with a lid, and cook on low heat for 18–20 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and tender.
5. Rest off the heat for 5 minutes, fluff gently with a fork, and garnish with caramelized onions.