The "Kedab Pigeon" is a delicious and popular dish in many Arab cuisines, known for combining great flavor with health benefits. It is made using boneless chicken thighs, which are rich in the proteins necessary for building and strengthening the body. In addition to the rice, which is rich in carbohydrates providing energy, and grated onions, a good source of vitamins and minerals like Vitamin C. Cardamom and bay leaves add a distinctive flavor to the dish and aid digestion, while butter enhances its taste and provides some healthy fats. The dish is garnished with chopped parsley, which adds a delicious taste and contains Vitamins A and C, beneficial for skin health and the immune system. Let’s learn how to prepare Kedab Pigeon with special additions to enhance both flavor and presentation.

Ingredients:

1. Boneless chicken thighs.
2. 1 cup of rice.
3. 1 grated onion.
4. Cardamom (haban).
5. Bay leaves.
6. Salt and black pepper.
7. Tomato sauce.
8. 1 tablespoon of butter.
9. Chopped parsley for garnish.

Preparation Method:

1. Start by washing the chicken thighs well and seasoning them with salt and black pepper.
2. Heat a pot on the stove, add the butter, and sauté the onions until they turn golden.
3. Add the rice to the onions, season with salt and black pepper, and then remove the pot from the heat.
4. Stuff the chicken thighs with the rice, seal with a toothpick, and wrap them in aluminum foil.
5. Add water to the pot in an appropriate amount along with cardamom, bay leaves, and a little salt.
6. Place the stuffed chicken thighs into the boiling water and let it simmer for approximately 30 minutes.
7. Drain the Kedab Pigeon and remove the aluminum foil, then coat with a mixture of tomato sauce and oil.
8. Place in the oven until fully cooked and golden, or alternatively, you can fry it in oil and ghee.
9. Arrange the Kedab Pigeon on a serving plate and garnish with chopped parsley to serve a delicious and savory dish.

Note: This recipe is suitable for those who enjoy experimenting and exploring new flavors, but it may not be suitable for people who prefer simple dishes with fewer spices.

Health Benefits of Ingredients:

• Boneless Chicken Thighs: They are an excellent source of proteins essential for building tissues and muscles. They also contain Vitamin B6, which supports the immune system and skin health.
• Rice: A rich source of carbohydrates that provide energy to the body. It also contains Vitamin B1 (thiamine), which supports nerve and digestive function.
• Grated Onion: Contains antioxidants such as flavonoids and Vitamin C, which contribute to strengthening the immune system and maintaining cardiovascular health.
• Cardamom (Hibiscus): Known for its properties that aid digestion and reduce inflammation. It also contains antioxidants that promote respiratory health.
• Bay Leaves: Contain compounds that aid in digestion and relieve stress. They also contain Vitamins A and C, which promote eye health and strengthen the immune system.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Black pepper contains "piperine," which helps improve nutrient absorption and enhance digestion. Salt helps maintain fluid balance in the body.
• Tomato Sauce: Rich in Vitamin C, which boosts immune system health. It also contains lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps prevent chronic diseases.
• Butter: Contains healthy saturated fats that enhance the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like Vitamin A and D.
• Chopped Parsley: Rich in Vitamins A and C, which help strengthen the immune system and improve skin health. It also contains antioxidants that fight free radicals in the body.

Nutritional Values:

The calorie count and nutritional values depend on the amounts used for each ingredient, but here is a general estimate based on average known nutritional values.

1. Boneless Chicken Thighs (100 grams):
   • Calories: Approximately 239 kcal
   • Protein: Approximately 18.5 grams
   • Fat: Approximately 17.5 grams
   • Carbohydrates: None
2. Rice (1 cup cooked, approximately 195 grams):
   • Calories: Approximately 218 kcal
   • Protein: Approximately 4.3 grams
   • Fat: Approximately 0.4 grams
   • Carbohydrates: Approximately 45.8 grams
3. Grated Onion (half medium onion):
   • Calories: Approximately 22 kcal
   • Protein: Approximately 0.9 grams
   • Fat: Approximately 0.1 grams
   • Carbohydrates: Approximately 5.3 grams
4. Cardamom and Bay Leaves (estimated):
   • Calories: Approximately 0 kcal
   • Protein: Approximately 0 grams
   • Fat: Approximately 0 grams
   • Carbohydrates: Approximately 0 grams
5. Tomato Sauce (1 tablespoon):
   • Calories: Approximately 20 kcal
   • Protein: Approximately 0.9 grams
   • Fat: Approximately 0.1 grams
   • Carbohydrates: Approximately 4.3 grams
6. Butter (1 tablespoon, estimated):
   • Calories: Approximately 102 kcal
   • Protein: Approximately 0.1 grams
   • Fat: Approximately 11.5 grams
   • Carbohydrates: Approximately 0 grams

Please check the nutritional information on the packaging for more accurate details.