Al Kabsa Traditional Saudi Rice Meat Dish

Experience the rich, aromatic flavors of the Middle East with Al Kabsa, a beloved traditional Saudi rice and meat dish that’s as heartwarming as it is flavorful. This iconic recipe combines tender lamb or chicken with fragrant basmati rice, simmered in a medley of warm spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and black lime, creating a delectable blend of savory and aromatic notes. Enhanced with sweet bursts of raisins, the dish is beautifully garnished with toasted almonds and fresh cilantro for an irresistible texture and vibrant finish. Ideal for family gatherings or festive occasions, Al Kabsa is a one-pot masterpiece that promises both comfort and culinary adventure. Perfectly paired with a side of tangy yogurt or fresh salad, this stunning dish is a celebration of traditional Saudi Arabian cuisine.

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:80 mins

Total Time:100 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 cups Basmati rice
• 1.5 kg Bone-in lamb or chicken
• 2 large Onion
• 4 Garlic cloves
• 4 medium Tomatoes
• 3 tablespoons Tomato paste
• 4 tablespoons Vegetable oil
• 1 large Carrot
• 1 Cinnamon stick
• 6 Cardamom pods
• 5 Cloves
• 2 Bay leaves
• 1 Black lime (dried lime)
• 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon Ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon Ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons Salt
• 1 teaspoon Black pepper
• 4.5 cups Water
• 0.5 cup Raisins
• 0.5 cup Slivered almonds
• 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro

Directions

Step 1

Wash the basmati rice thoroughly and soak it in water for 20-30 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.

Step 3

Add the garlic (minced) to the pot and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4

Stir in the tomatoes (finely chopped) and tomato paste. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the mixture turns into a thick sauce.

Step 5

Add the lamb or chicken to the pot, ensuring the pieces are evenly coated with the sauce. Sauté the meat for 5-7 minutes.

Step 6

Add the cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, bay leaves, and black lime to the pot. Also stir in the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper.

Step 7

Pour in 4.5 cups of water, ensuring the meat is submerged. Cover the pot and simmer over low heat for 40-50 minutes, or until the meat is tender.

Step 8

Once the meat is cooked, remove it from the pot and keep warm. Strain the broth to remove the whole spices, then return the broth to the pot.

Step 9

Add the soaked and drained basmati rice to the pot, along with the shredded carrot and raisins. Stir gently to combine.

Step 10

Cover the pot and cook the rice over low heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.

Step 11

While the rice cooks, toast the slivered almonds in a dry pan over medium heat until golden.

Step 12

Once the rice is cooked, place the meat back on top of the rice. Cover and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 13

Garnish the Al Kabsa with toasted almonds and freshly chopped cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	4280.9 grams (4280.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	6464

Total Fat 438.30g	562%
Saturated Fat 158.20g	791%
Polyunsaturated Fat 34.10g
Cholesterol 1455mg	485%
Sodium 6009mg	261%
Total Carbohydrate 291.10g	106%
Dietary Fiber 43.80g	156%
Total Sugars 97.60g
Protein 348.00g	696%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 917mg	71%
Iron 47mg	259%
Potassium 7682mg	163%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 60.7%

Protein: 21.4%

Carbs: 17.9%