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Authentic Terra Massoud recipe plated with saffron rice and lamb.

Terra Massoud

The Terra Massoud recipe is a flavorful Middle Eastern dish, featuring slow-cooked meats, aromatic spices, and preserved lemons. It embodies rich cultural heritage and is perfect for family gatherings and celebrations.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Calories: 620
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 lbs lamb, chicken, or beef cut into uniform pieces
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or ghee
  • 1 onion thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 preserved lemon finely chopped
Spices
  • 1 tsp ras el hanout
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp coriander
  • 1/2 tsp saffron soaked in warm water
  • 1 tsp harissa optional for heat
Additional Ingredients
  • 1 tomato chopped
  • 1 cup water or broth
  • 2 cups basmati rice rinsed and parboiled

Equipment

  • Heavy-Bottomed Pot

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil or ghee in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
  2. Add sliced onions and sauté until translucent and slightly caramelized.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
  4. Stir in ras el hanout, cumin, coriander, and saffron, toasting lightly to release flavors.
  5. Add chopped preserved lemons and mix well.
  6. Introduce the protein of choice (lamb, chicken, or beef) and sear on all sides.
  7. Add chopped tomatoes and pour in water or broth.
  8. Cover and let simmer on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours until the meat is tender.
  9. Meanwhile, parboil the basmati rice for 5 minutes, then drain.
  10. In a separate large pot, layer half of the parboiled rice at the bottom.
  11. Spoon the meat mixture over the rice, then cover with the remaining rice.
  12. Drizzle saffron-infused water over the top layer and cover the pot.
  13. Cook on low heat for 30 to 45 minutes until the rice fully absorbs the flavors.
  14. Fluff the rice gently before serving.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, replace meat with chickpeas or mushrooms while keeping the same spice blend and cooking method.