Saudi Kabsa Recipe: A Step-By-Step Guide
Saudi Kabsa Recipe: A Step-By-Step Guide
Introduction
Kabsa, the national dish of Saudi Arabia, is a delicious and hearty combination of long grain rice, aromatic spices, and tender meat. This dish varies from region to region, but it’s always guaranteed to be packed with flavor and warmth. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to prepare this staple of Saudi cuisine in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of long grain rice (basmati is preferred)
- 500 grams of lamb or chicken
- 3 large tomatoes, pureed
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup of raisins (optional)
- 1/4 cup of slivered almonds (optional)
- 5 cups of water
- 3 tablespoons of oil
- 2 teaspoons of Kabsa spice mix (available at Middle Eastern grocery stores, or make your own blend with coriander, pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and saffron)
- 1 teaspoon of turmeric
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the meat: In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the meat, browning on all sides. Remove the meat from the pot and set it aside.
- Cook the onions and garlic: In the same pot, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook until the onions become translucent.
- Add the spices: Add the Kabsa spice mix, turmeric, and salt to the pot. Stir well, allowing the spices to coat the onions and garlic.
- Add the meat and tomatoes: Return the meat to the pot and add the pureed tomatoes. Stir everything together, ensuring the meat is well coated with the tomato and spice mixture.
- Cook the meat: Add the water to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer until the meat is tender (about 1 hour for chicken, 2 hours for lamb).
- Cook the rice: While the meat is simmering, wash the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Once the meat is tender, add the rice to the pot. Cover and cook on low heat until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid (about 20 minutes).
- Prepare the garnish: If using, soak the raisins in warm water until they plump up. In a separate pan, toast the slivered almonds until they’re golden brown. Drain the raisins.
- Serve the Kabsa: Fluff the rice with a fork and transfer it to a serving dish. Place the meat on top of the rice. Sprinkle the raisins and toasted almonds over the top. Your Kabsa is now ready to serve.
Conclusion
With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, Kabsa is a dish that’s sure to impress at any dining table. Though it might seem complex, this recipe breaks down the process into manageable steps, making it possible for anyone to try their hand at this traditional Saudi dish. Enjoy your culinary journey to Saudi Arabia!
