By eatmundo · July 12, 2026
🇱🇧Same ingredients, elsewhere in the world
1 matchThis dish doesn't have a strong Mundo Match yet — but here's the closest ingredient overlap we found across the world's cuisines. The percentage is the share of ingredients the two recipes have in common.
Same technique: Rice dish45 recipes from 16 countries
A festive Lebanese masterpiece featuring tender lamb tucked into a bed of aromatic spiced rice. It is the ultimate centerpiece for special gatherings.
According to eatmundo's ingredient comparison, the closest dish to Ouzi from another cuisine is Albaloo Polow (Iran): the two share 40% of their ingredients.
Ingredients
tick what you already have - the rest goes on your shopping listHow to Make It
- 1
Season 1.5kg of lamb shanks with 1 teaspoon of the baharat and 1 teaspoon of the salt. In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat 1 tablespoon of the oil over medium heat and sear the shanks until deeply browned on all sides, about 8 minutes.
- 2
Add the chopped onions, cover with 2 liters of water and add the remaining 1 teaspoon of salt. Simmer for 2 hours, until the meat is fork-tender. Lift out the shanks and keep them warm. Strain the cooking liquid and reserve it as the lamb stock.
- 3
In a separate pan, toast 100g vermicelli in the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil until golden brown, about 3 minutes.
- 4
Add 500g rinsed basmati rice, the remaining 1 teaspoon of baharat and 0.5 teaspoon of cardamom to the vermicelli. Stir for 2 minutes to coat the grains in fat and spices.
- 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.
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