Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 onions, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 cardamom pods
- 4 cloves
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot with lid
- Skillet
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in cold water for 30 minutes.
2. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil and butter over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and sauté until softened.
3. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, bay leaves, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes.
6. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pot. Stir to combine.
7. Cover the pot and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
8. In a skillet, toast the slivered almonds until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
9. In the same skillet, sauté the raisins until plump. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
10. Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for 10 minutes.
11. Fluff the rice with a fork and transfer it to a serving platter.
12. Arrange the chicken pieces on top of the rice.
13. Sprinkle the toasted almonds and sautéed raisins over the chicken and rice.
14. Serve hot.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Temperature:
Cooking temperature: Medium-low heat
Serving size:
This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 600
Total fat: 22g
Saturated fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 100mg
Sodium: 1300mg
Total carbohydrate: 70g
Dietary fiber: 4g
Sugar: 12g
Protein: 34g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Chicken can be substituted with lamb or beef.
- Vegetable oil can be substituted with olive oil or ghee.
- Raisins can be substituted with dried apricots or dates.
- Slivered almonds can be substituted with chopped pistachios or cashews.
Variations:
- Add chopped carrots, bell peppers, or green beans to the pot for added vegetables.
- Use brown rice instead of basmati rice for a healthier option.
- Add a pinch of saffron to the rice for a more fragrant and flavorful dish.
Tips and tricks:
- Soaking the rice before cooking helps to remove excess starch and results in fluffier rice.
- Toasting the almonds before adding them to the dish adds a nutty flavor and crunchy texture.
- Sautéing the raisins before adding them to the dish plumps them up and adds sweetness.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the leftovers in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the dish on a large platter with the chicken pieces arranged on top of the rice. Sprinkle the toasted almonds and sautéed raisins over the chicken and rice for added color and texture.
Garnishes:
Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for added freshness and flavor.
Pairings:
Serve with a side of cucumber and tomato salad or a mixed green salad.
Suggested side dishes:
- Hummus and pita bread
- Baba ghanoush
- Tzatziki sauce
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the rice is still hard after the liquid has been absorbed, add a little more chicken broth or water and continue cooking until the rice is tender.
- If the dish is too spicy, reduce the amount of cumin, coriander, paprika, or black pepper.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth.
Food history:
Kabsah is a traditional Saudi Arabian rice dish that is typically made with meat, vegetables, and spices. It is a popular dish during celebrations and special occasions.
Flavor profiles:
This dish is savory and aromatic with a blend of spices including cinnamon, cardamom, and cumin. The raisins add a touch of sweetness while the almonds add a nutty crunch.
Serving suggestions:
Serve this dish as a main course for a family dinner or a special occasion. It can also be served as part of a larger Middle Eastern or Mediterranean feast.
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Region: Saudi Arabian