Soak basmati rice in water
Mix together all the dry powdered spices and keep aside. This is Maqloubeh spice mix
Heat 2 tbsp oil in a heavy bottom pan, fry onions till translucent. Add whole garlic and saute for few seconds
Add chicken pieces and 3 tbsp of maqloubeh spice mix
Add salt and mix well
Add enough water for the chicken to cook
Once the chicken is tender, take out of the pan draining all the water and keep aside
Make sure there's 3 cups water in the pan. Add the soaked rice draining all the water. Check for seasoning
Bring the water to boil in high flame
In another pan, add 2 tbsp oil. Add tomato paste and 1 tbsp spice mix with a pinch of salt and mix till oil separates
Check for the rice, bring the flame to medium once there no bubbles visible and close the lid
When there a shallow sound from the pan switch off the flame and let it stand for 10 minutes
Meanwhile, caramelize the vegetables in a pan. To caramelize it, Heat 2 tbsp oil and 1 tbsp sugar. Add the vegetables and cook for few seconds
Now open the rice lid and mix the tomato paste with it.
Take a bowl to layer the maqloubeh. Arrange vegetables in the bottom, layer with rice and press gently. Then add the chicken and repeat with rice
Flip over in a plate and serve with onion raita
