The Traditional Saudi Kabssah

Transport your taste buds to the heart of Arabian cuisine with The Traditional Saudi Kabsa, a fragrant and delicious one-pot dish that embodies the warmth and depth of Middle Eastern flavors. This recipe features tender, spiced chicken simmered with basmati rice, sweet raisins, and a medley of aromatic spices, including cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and the iconic Kabsa spice mix. A rich tomato base, combined with caramelized onions and garlic, infuses the dish with a savory complexity, while grated carrots add a subtle sweetness to balance the spices. Finished with toasted almonds for a delightful crunch, this vibrant recipe is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. Easy to prepare and deeply comforting, the Kabsa is best served hot alongside yogurt sauce or a refreshing salad for a complete, authentic meal. Perfect for fans of Saudi Arabian cuisine, this flavorful dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

Nutriscore Rating: 72/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:90 mins

Total Time:120 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (whole, cut into pieces or 1.5 kg cuts of your choice)
• 3 cups basmati rice
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 ripe tomatoes, finely chopped or pureed
• 1 carrot, grated
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
• 6 cups water or chicken stock
• 2 tablespoons Kabsa spice mix (see note below)
• 4 cardamom pods
• 5 cloves
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 0.5 cup raisins
• 0.5 cup almonds (optional, toasted for garnish)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain before using.

Step 2

Heat the vegetable oil or ghee in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.

Step 4

Stir in the minced garlic, cardamom pods, cloves, cinnamon stick, and bay leaf. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 5

Add the chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 6

Stir in the grated carrot, chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, and Kabsa spice mix. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the tomato mixture thickens and the spices are well incorporated.

Step 7

Pour in the water or chicken stock, add the salt and black pepper, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 8

Remove the chicken pieces and set them aside. Cover them with foil to keep warm.

Step 9

Add the drained rice to the cooking liquid in the pot. Stir gently to combine.

Step 10

Sprinkle the raisins over the rice. Cover the pot and cook on low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 11

Meanwhile, you can optionally grill or broil the cooked chicken pieces for a few minutes to give them a golden, crispy exterior.

Step 12

Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and arrange the chicken on top.

Step 13

Sprinkle toasted almonds over the dish for garnish if desired.

Step 14

Serve the Kabsa hot as a complete meal, paired with a side of fresh salad or yogurt sauce.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	4367.4 grams (4367.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4456

Total Fat 248.70g	319%
Saturated Fat 56.10g	281%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 600mg	200%
Sodium 5351mg	233%
Total Carbohydrate 293.50g	107%
Dietary Fiber 33.50g	120%
Total Sugars 78.90g
Protein 225.90g	452%

Vitamin D 40IU	200%
Calcium 664mg	51%
Iron 27mg	148%
Potassium 5505mg	117%

*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: 51.9%

Protein: 20.9%

Carbs: 27.2%