🇱🇧 Lebanon · Food
Ouzi
By eatmundo · July 12, 2026
🇱🇧 LBA festive Lebanese masterpiece featuring tender lamb tucked into a bed of aromatic spiced rice. It is the ultimate centerpiece for special gatherings.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
In a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat, sear 1.5kg of lamb shanks until deeply browned on all sides, about 8 minutes.
- 2
Add chopped onions and cover with 2 liters of water, simmering for 90 minutes until the meat is fork-tender.
- 3
In a separate pan, toast 100g vermicelli in a tablespoon of oil until golden brown, about 3 minutes.
- 4
Add 500g rinsed basmati rice to the vermicelli, stirring for 2 minutes to coat the grains in fat.
- 5
Pour 800ml of the reserved hot lamb stock over the rice and cover, cooking on low heat for 18 minutes.
- 6
While the rice cooks, toast 50g of mixed nuts in a small skillet with a touch of butter until fragrant, about 4 minutes.
- 7
Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and spread it on a large platter, arranging the lamb shanks on top.
- 8
Finish by scattering the golden toasted nuts over the dish and serving immediately while steaming hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ouzi?+
Ouzi is a Levantine dish consisting of spiced rice mixed with lamb shank and aromatics like cardamom and baharat. It is typically served as a celebratory centerpiece during feasts, gatherings, and special occasions.
Can I use chicken instead of lamb?+
Yes, chicken thighs work beautifully with the same spices.
What is the secret to fluffy rice?+
Always rinse the rice until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
Can I prepare this in advance?+
You can cook the lamb ahead of time, but steam the rice fresh.
Which nuts are traditional?+
Pine nuts and slivered almonds are the most authentic choices.
🇱🇧 LBMundo Match
This dish doesn't have a strong Mundo Match yet — but here's the closest ingredient overlap we found across the world's cuisines.
