Spiced spatchcock chicken, quince glaze and bejewelled rice

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 200C/180C Fan/Gas 6. Mix the oil and baharat in a bowl, then brush all over the chicken. Roast for 45 minutes, adjusting this timing depending on the size of the chicken.

2. Meanwhile, to make the chicken glaze, combine the membrillo and apple juice in a saucepan and simmer over a medium heat until it boils down to a glaze consistency (this should be about 4–5 tablespoons of liquid). Season the glaze with salt and pepper and set aside until the chicken is cooked.

3. To make the jewelled rice, place a saucepan with a lid over a medium heat and add the olive oil. Add the onion and cook until softened and translucent, then add the garlic and cook for another minute. Add the vermicelli, stir well and toast until it turns golden brown.

4. Add the rice, spices, butter and a generous amount of salt and pepper and cook, stirring, until the vermicelli is evenly coated in the melted butter and spices. Pour in 600ml/21fl oz cold water and stir again, then cover the pan with the lid, reduce to a very gentle simmer and cook for 30–35 minutes, or until the rice on top is cooked and fluffy.

5. Fluff the rice up with a fork and add a few extra knobs of butter. Fold in the chopped apricots, dried chopped cranberries, toasted pine nuts and pistachios.

6. When the chicken is cooked, brush the chicken with the glaze as it rests. Serve the chicken with a flourish of chopped parsley and pomegranate seeds, and the rice on the side. Alternatively you can cut the chicken into portions.