Saudi Kabsa is one of the most famous traditional dishes, known for its rich flavors and diverse health benefits. This delicious dish contains important nutrients, including proteins, carbohydrates, and essential vitamins. The combination of rice with meat (usually chicken or lamb) and spices like saffron and cinnamon gives Kabsa its distinctive taste and remarkable nutritional value.

Kabsa is a good source of energy, supporting daily activities, and it contains vitamins A, C, and B6, which help boost immunity and promote skin health. However, it should be consumed in moderation due to its high sodium and spice content, especially for those with high blood pressure or sensitivity to certain spices. Overall, Saudi Kabsa is a rich and tasty meal that combines flavor with nutritional value, making it a favorite choice for families.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of Basmati rice
• 500 grams of chopped chicken or meat
• 2 finely chopped onions
• 2 chopped tomatoes
• 3 cloves of minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon of Kabsa spice mix (saffron, cinnamon, black lime, cardamom)
• 4 cups of water or chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A handful of roasted almonds (optional)
• A handful of raisins (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Preparation Method:

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil and sauté the onions until golden brown.
Add the garlic and tomatoes, and cook until they soften.
Add the meat pieces and cook until browned.
Add the spice mix and let it cook for a minute to release the aroma.
Add the water or broth, salt, and pepper, then bring to a boil.
Cover and let it cook for 45 minutes until the meat becomes tender.
Add the rice to the pot and stir well. Let it cook for about 20 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked.
Garnish the Kabsa with roasted almonds, raisins, and fresh parsley before serving.

Tips for Perfect Kabsa Preparation:

Choosing the right type of rice:
It’s best to use Basmati rice for Kabsa, as it has a fragrant aroma and ideal texture after cooking.

Properly seasoning the meat:
It’s recommended to marinate the meat with spices ahead of time to allow it to fully absorb the flavors. Adding saffron or sage can enhance the taste.

Well-browning the onions and garlic:
It’s important to brown the onions and garlic well to release their aromatic flavors, which gives the Kabsa a rich taste.

Ways to Serve Kabsa:

Adding nuts:
Kabsa can be garnished with roasted almonds or pine nuts to add a unique flavor and a crunchy texture that enhances the eating experience.

Adding side sauces:
Kabsa can be served with yogurt sauce or spicy tomato sauce to offer an extra layer of flavor and balance the overall taste.

Adding vegetables:
Some people prefer serving Kabsa with vegetables like red bell peppers or cucumbers on the side to add a refreshing taste.

Types of Kabsa:

Kabsa comes in various types depending on the main ingredients used in its preparation. Here are some popular varieties:

Meat Kabsa:
This is one of the most famous types, prepared with lamb or beef. The meat is cooked with rice and spices, resulting in a rich and unique flavor.

Chicken Kabsa:
This version is made with chicken instead of meat and is among the most common types due to its distinctive taste and ease of preparation.

Vegetarian Kabsa:
For those following a vegetarian diet, meat or chicken can be replaced with seasonal vegetables like carrots and eggplant, making Kabsa a healthy and suitable option for all tastes.

Controlling the Cooking Temperature:

It is important to control the temperature of the broth while cooking Kabsa to ensure the rice is perfectly cooked. Kabsa can be cooked over medium heat to avoid burning the rice or meat. After adding the rice, it's recommended to reduce the heat slightly and let it simmer gently.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers:

What are the main spices in Saudi Kabsa?
Kabsa includes key spices such as saffron, cinnamon, black lime, and cardamom, which give the dish its distinctive flavor.

Can Kabsa be prepared with ingredients other than meat or chicken?
Yes, Kabsa can be made with fish or plant-based ingredients as alternatives.

How can leftover Kabsa be stored?
Leftover Kabsa can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Is Kabsa suitable for people on a low-sodium diet?
If you follow a low-sodium diet, you can reduce the amount of salt used or opt for low-sodium broth when preparing Kabsa.

What is the best way to serve Kabsa?
Kabsa can be served with yogurt, salads, or roasted nuts to complete the meal.

What is the appropriate cooking time for Kabsa?
Kabsa takes about 1 hour to cook, but the exact time depends on the type and size of the meat used.

Nutritional Values and Benefits:

Basmati Rice (2 cups)

• Calories: 400
• Carbohydrates: 88g
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 0.6g
• Sodium: 5mg
• Nutritional Benefit: Rice is a good source of carbohydrates that provide the body with energy for daily activity.

Chicken (500 grams)

• Calories: 1100
• Protein: 50g
• Fat: 10g
• Sodium: 130mg
• Nutritional Benefit: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein that helps build muscles and repair tissues.

Onion (2 medium)

• Calories: 80
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 5mg
• Nutritional Benefit: Onions contain antioxidants and vitamins that support immune and digestive health.

Tomatoes (2 medium)

• Calories: 44
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Vitamin C: 20mg (33% of daily requirement)
• Nutritional Benefit: Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, which enhances immune health and skin vitality.

Garlic (3 cloves)

• Calories: 12
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Protein: 0.6g
• Nutritional Benefit: Garlic has anti-inflammatory properties and supports heart health.

Kabsa Spice Mix

• Nutritional Benefit: The spice mix contains antioxidants and vitamins that enhance flavor without adding extra calories.

Almonds (optional)

• Calories: 160
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 14g
• Nutritional Benefit: Almonds are rich in healthy fats and protein, which support heart health and weight management.

Raisins (optional)

• Calories: 130
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 1.5g
• Nutritional Benefit: Raisins are a good source of natural sugars that provide quick energy.

By combining these ingredients, Saudi Kabsa is considered a balanced meal that contains a mix of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins. It provides energy, supports immune health, and aids in digestion.