MASTAVA is the most delicious rice soup "liquid pilaf" | YasharBek

Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Stir in diced carrot and cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened.

Add diced potato and bell pepper, cooking for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Mix in chopped tomato and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant, about 2 minutes.

Add rice to the pot, stirring to coat with the vegetable mixture.

Pour in water and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.

Season with cumin, black pepper, and salt, stirring to combine.

Add chickpeas and cover the pot, simmering for 20-25 minutes until rice is tender.

Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes to steam.

Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in chopped fresh herbs before serving.