Authentic Saudi Kabsa Recipe: A Flavorful Middle Eastern Delicacy

Ingredients

2 cups of Basmati rice
500 grams of chicken
4 tablespoons of vegetable oil
2 large onions, finely chopped
6 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
3 large tomatoes, chopped
2 medium carrots, grated
1/4 cup of tomato paste
4 whole cloves
2 cinnamon sticks
4 cardamom pods
1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper
1 teaspoon of ground turmeric
1 teaspoon of ground cumin
1 teaspoon of ground coriander
2 bay leaves
4 cups of hot water
1/4 cup of raisins
1/4 cup of slivered almonds
1/2 teaspoon of saffron threads
Salt to taste

Steps and instructions

Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak in cold water for 15 minutes. Drain.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan on medium heat.
Add the chopped onions and garlic into the pan and sauté until they become soft and golden brown.
Add the chicken to the pan and cook until it becomes brown on all sides.
Add the spices: cloves, cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods, ground black pepper, turmeric, cumin, coriander and bay leaves. Mix well to coat the chicken with the spices.
Add the tomato paste, chopped tomatoes and grated carrots to the pan. Stir well.
Add the rice to the pan and stir to combine it with the other ingredients.
Pour the hot water into the pan, add salt to taste, and bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed.
While the rice is cooking, in a small pan, add a little oil and sauté the raisins and almonds until they are golden brown. Set aside.
Soak the saffron threads in a little warm water for a few minutes, then stir into the rice.
Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork, then garnish with the sautéed raisins and almonds.
Serve the Kabsa hot, with a green salad or yogurt on the side if desired.

Tools for making

Large pan - A pan large enough to hold all the ingredients and cook the Kabsa.
Small pan - A small pan to sauté the raisins and almonds for garnishing.
Fork - To fluff the cooked rice.
Knife - For chopping the onions, garlic, and tomatoes.
Measuring cups - To measure the rice and water accurately.
Grater - To grate the carrots.
Spatula - For stirring and mixing the ingredients in the pan.
Saucepan - To soak the saffron threads in warm water.
Colander - For rinsing the basmati rice.

Recipe variations

Use lamb or beef instead of chicken for a different flavor.
Add vegetables like green bell peppers, peas, or potatoes to the dish.
Try using different spices or spice blends like baharat or Ras el Hanout.
Use brown rice or a different type of grain like quinoa for a healthier alternative.
Make a seafood version by substituting the chicken with shrimp, fish, or a combination of seafood.
Experiment with different nuts like pistachios or pine nuts for the garnish.
Add dried fruits like dates or apricots to enhance the sweetness of the dish.
Make a vegetarian or vegan version by replacing the chicken with tofu or tempeh, and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Try grilling or roasting the meat before adding it to the dish for a smoky flavor.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added freshness.

Recipe overview

Kabsa is a traditional Middle-Eastern dish, popular especially in Saudi Arabia. It's a hearty, flavorful meal that consists of spiced chicken and basmati rice, often garnished with raisins and almonds. The combination of spices, including cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, and more, gives Kabsa its distinct and tantalizing aroma. This recipe will guide you step-by-step as you prepare this delicious dish. It's a simple process that involves sautéing the ingredients, simmering the rice, and garnishing with sautéed raisins and almonds. You may serve the Kabsa hot, ideally with a green salad or yogurt on the side. Even if you're new to Middle-Eastern cuisine, this recipe is easy to follow. Embark on this culinary adventure and savor the taste of the Middle-East from the comfort of your own kitchen!

Common questions

Can I use any other type of rice instead of basmati rice?
Yes, you can use other types of long-grain rice, but keep in mind that basmati rice is commonly used in traditional Kabsa recipes for its aromatic flavor.
Can I use boneless chicken instead of chicken with bones?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly as boneless chicken cooks faster than chicken with bones.
Can I substitute the spices with pre-made Kabsa spice mix?
Yes, you can use pre-made Kabsa spice mix if you have it available. However, the individual spices listed in the recipe provide a more authentic and customizable flavor.
Can I add vegetables of my choice to the Kabsa?
Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or green beans to the Kabsa if you like. Just ensure they are cooked to your desired tenderness before adding the rice.
How can I make the Kabsa spicier?
If you prefer a spicier Kabsa, you can increase the amount of ground black pepper or add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes according to your taste.
Can I make Kabsa without raisins and almonds?
Yes, you can omit the raisins and almonds if you prefer or if you have any dietary restrictions or allergies. The dish will still be flavorful without them.
Can I prepare Kabsa in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Kabsa in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the oven, adding a little water if needed to prevent it from drying out.

Serving dishes and utensils

Large pan - A large pan is needed to sauté the onions, garlic, chicken, and mix all the ingredients together.
Small pan - A small pan is useful for sautéing the raisins and almonds for garnishing.
Fork - A fork is needed to fluff the cooked rice and separate the grains.
Serving plate - A serving plate is necessary to present the Kabsa in an appealing way.
Spatula or spoon - A spatula or spoon is required for stirring and mixing the ingredients.
Knife - A knife is needed for chopping the onions, garlic, and tomatoes.
Cutting board - A cutting board is useful for chopping the vegetables and other ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons - Measuring cups and spoons are necessary for accurately measuring the rice, oil, spices, and other ingredients.
Lid - A lid is required to cover the pan while simmering the rice.

Origin stories

Kabsa is a staple and national dish of Saudi Arabia, and truly a culinary symbol of the region. It is deeply woven into the fabric of Saudi Arabian culture, so much so that it's almost impossible to visit without being served a generous plate of Kabsa. Not confined to just Saudi Arabia, it found its way across the Arabian Peninsula, and each region added its touch to the dish. Kabsa, in its essence, embodies the Bedouin lifestyle. The spices used in Kabsa were not locally available and were brought by the spice caravans travelling through the desert, adding an exotic touch to this dish. Today, Kabsa is not just a meal; it's a tradition that brings people together. Its preparation is considered an art and a manifestation of hospitality. Each ingredient added, each stir of the pot, is a nod to its rich history and the shared communal experience it provides.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.