Machboos (Omani chicken one-pot rice)

Method

• step 1

  Heat 3 tbsp of the oil in a large pan over a low-medium heat and fry the onion for 5 mins until turning slightly brown at the edges. Add the garlic, spices, chillies (if using) and dried limes. Stir well and fry for 2-4 mins, then stir in the tomato purée.

• step 2

  Lay the chicken pieces in the pan and sear for 6-10 mins on each side, then add the tomatoes and pepper, followed by 1 litre of water. Season with a pinch of salt, then increase the heat to medium-high. Cover with a lid and leave to bubble for 20 mins until the chicken is cooked through.

• step 3

  Once the chicken is cooked, add the rice along with the remaining oil. Reduce the heat to the lowest setting, then securely wrap a clean tea towel around the pan lid and put it on top of the pan – this will help create more steam and make the rice extra fluffy. Leave to cook for 20 mins.

• step 4

  Meanwhile, toast the almonds in a dry frying pan over a medium heat for 5 mins until golden.

• step 5

  Once the rice is cooked, divide the machboos between four plates. Scatter over the toasted almonds and finish with a sprinkling of coriander and pomegranate seeds.