Al Kabsa (Traditional Saudi Rice and Chicken)

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Al Kabsa is a traditional Saudi dish that combines flavorful spices, tender chicken, and fragrant rice. This hearty meal is not just a feast for your taste buds but also brings family and friends together. It’s perfect for any occasion and sure to impress!

Why Make This Recipe

Making Al Kabsa at home is a rewarding experience. The rich combination of spices creates a warm and comforting dish that your loved ones will adore. Whether it’s a weekend dinner or a special gathering, this recipe brings joy and delicious aromas to your kitchen. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce your family to the flavors of Saudi Arabia.

How to Make Al Kabsa

Ingredients:

0.5 teaspoon saffron
0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
0.5 teaspoon ground allspice
0.5 teaspoon dried whole lime powder
0.25 teaspoon ground cardamom
0.25 teaspoon ground white pepper
0.25 cup butter
1 onion, finely chopped
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 (3 pound) whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces
0.25 cup tomato puree
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
3 carrots, peeled and grated
2 whole cloves
1 pinch ground nutmeg
1 pinch ground cumin
1 pinch ground coriander
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
3.25 cups hot water, plus more if needed
1 cube chicken bouillon
2.25 cups unrinsed basmati rice
0.25 cup raisins
0.25 cup toasted slivered almonds

Directions:

Make spice mix: Stir together saffron, cinnamon, allspice, lime powder, cardamom, and white pepper in a small bowl; set aside.
Make the dish: Melt butter in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Cook and stir onion and garlic in butter until the onion has softened and turned translucent, about 5 minutes. Add chicken and cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned, about 10 minutes. Mix in tomato puree.
Combine ingredients: Stir in canned tomatoes with juice, carrots, cloves, nutmeg, cumin, coriander, salt, black pepper, and reserved spice mix. Cook for about 3 minutes; pour in water and add the chicken bouillon cube.
Simmer: Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce heat, and cover the pot. Simmer until chicken is no longer pink and the juices run clear, about 30 minutes.
Add rice: Gently stir in rice. Cover the pot and simmer until rice is tender and almost dry, about 25 minutes; add raisins and a little more hot water, if necessary. Cover and cook until rice grains separate, about 5 to 10 minutes.
Serve: Transfer rice to a large serving platter and arrange chicken on top. Sprinkle with toasted slivered almonds.

How to Serve Al Kabsa

Al Kabsa is best served warm. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with a fresh salad or yogurt on the side. It’s perfect for sharing at family gatherings, and everyone will love digging in!

How to Store Al Kabsa

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Al Kabsa will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water to keep it moist.

Tips to Make Al Kabsa

For more depth of flavor, allow the chicken to marinate in the spice mix for a few hours before cooking.
Make sure not to rinse the basmati rice; this helps keep the grains fluffy.
Adjust the spices according to your taste preferences—add more if you love that extra kick!

Variation

You can try using different proteins like lamb or beef if you prefer. Vegetarian options can include chickpeas or lentils along with the spices for a different twist!

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of basmati rice?
Yes, you can but remember that brown rice takes longer to cook. Adjust your water and cooking time accordingly.

2. What if I can’t find whole lime powder?
If you can’t find dried whole lime powder, you can use a little lemon or lime juice or the zest of the fruit for a similar flavor.

3. Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can make Al Kabsa a day before, just reheat it gently on the stovetop before serving. Enjoy!