Last updated on October 6th, 2023 at 02:35 pm
Kabsa, a well-known dish from Saudi Arabia, is more than just a meal. It’s a symbol of hospitality, tradition, and cultural identity. This flavorful Middle Eastern rice dish has been passed down through generations and continues to be a staple in Saudi households.
The dish is believed to have originated from the Arabian Peninsula. Also called “Al Kabsa,” its name comes from the Arabic word ‘kbs’, which means ‘press’—referring to the cooking method where all ingredients are cooked together.
Our team at Remitly created this guide as part of our series that celebrates the traditional foods of our global customers.
The Origin of Kabsa
Historically, Kabsa was prepared by Bedouin tribes who roamed the deserts of the Arabian Peninsula. They relied on simple ingredients that were readily available: rice, meat (usually lamb or chicken), and a blend of spices.
Over time, as trade routes expanded and new ingredients became accessible, variations of Kabsa began to emerge.
Today, it’s acknowledged that each region in Saudi Arabia has its own unique version of Kabsa. Despite these differences, the essence remains—the combination of rice, meat and aromatic spices cooked together to create a hearty meal that many consider the national dish of Saudi Arabia.
Ingredients Used in Kabsa
The key components for making traditional Kabsa include long-grain rice and meat—typically chicken or lamb. However, other meats like goat or fish can also be used depending on personal preference or regional variation.
A defining characteristic of Kabsa is its rich blend of spices. These often include black lime (loomi), cinnamon sticks, bay leaves, cardamom pods and cloves among others. Fresh vegetables such as tomatoes and onions are also commonly used, along with dried fruits like raisins or apricots for added flavor.
A Classic Saudi Kabsa Recipe
Kabsa is a dish that’s as enjoyable to prepare as it is to eat. Here’s a simple recipe for chicken Kabsa you can try at home.
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- Meat: 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces (you can also use lamb or beef)
- 2 cups of long grain rice (like basmati)
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil or ghee
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 large tomato, chopped
- 1/4 cup of tomato paste
- 3 carrots, peeled and grated
- 2 dried limes (loomi), pierced
- Kabsa Spice Mix (you can find pre-made mix or make your own with a combination of ground black lime, ground coriander, ground cinnamon, ground cumin, ground cardamom, and ground cloves.)
- Salt, to taste
- 1/4 cup of raisins (optional)
- 1/4 cup of slivered almonds (optional)
- 1/4 cup of pine nuts (optional)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Method:
- Prepping the Rice: Begin by washing the long grain rice in cold water until clear. Soak for about 30 minutes, then drain.
- Meat Preparation: On high heat, in a large pot or dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil or ghee. Add the whole chicken pieces, browning them on all sides. Remove and set aside.
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In the same pot, add onions and sauté until translucent. Add garlic and sauté for a minute more.
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Add the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, carrots, and half of the Kabsa spice mix. Sauté until the mixture becomes a thick sauce.
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Return the chicken pieces to the pot, add the dried limes, and cover with water or broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer until the chicken is cooked through.
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Remove the chicken pieces and set aside. Retain the broth for the rice.
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Rice: Boil the broth, add the soaked basmati rice, and simmer until rice is cooked, adding water if needed.
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Roasting nuts: In a pan with a bit of ghee or oil, roast the almonds, pine nuts, and then the raisins. Set aside.
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Serving: Serve rice on a platter, topped with chicken. Sprinkle with nuts, raisins, and garnish with herbs.
Notes:
- Using a whole chicken adds more flavor to the broth and the dish as a whole. If you prefer, you can use chicken parts.
- Pine nuts add a lovely texture and flavor to the dish. Roasting them brings out their nuttiness.
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Always monitor the pot when using high heat to ensure that ingredients don’t burn.
- Dried Limes (Loomi): These are sun-dried limes that have a unique sour and slightly fermented flavor, crucial for authentic Kabsa. They can be found in Middle Eastern grocery stores.
- Kabsa Spice Mix: This is a blend of spices specific to Kabsa and can be found pre-made in some Middle Eastern or international grocery stores. If making from scratch, adjust proportions according to personal preference.
Enjoy the rich flavors and textures of this traditional Saudi dish.
Nutrition
The long grain rice, preferably basmati, serves as a primary source of carbohydrates which provide energy. The whole chicken contributes lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. The variety of spices imparts flavor and introduces various antioxidants and health-promoting compounds.
Vegetables like tomatoes and carrots add vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Additionally, the nuts—especially pine nuts and almonds—bring in healthy fats, vitamin E, and other essential nutrients.
While Kabsa is nutritious, portion control is recommended due to its rich nature, especially if one is mindful of calorie intake.
Regional Rice Recipes: What’s the Difference?
Biryani
Originating from South Asia, Biryani is aromatic and often colorful. It’s known for its layered cooking using spices and sometimes saffron.
Kabsa
As noted here, Kabsa boasts a unique blend of spices like black lime. It’s commonly paired with chicken, lamb, or fish.
Machboos
Popular in Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar, Machboos is similar to Kabsa but with a distinct spice profile, often incorporating dried lemon.
Plov (Pilaf)
Originating from Central Asia and spreading to many regions, Plov is a comforting rice dish often cooked with broth, meat (commonly lamb), and vegetables. Distinctive for its use of carrots, onions, and sometimes dried fruits, it’s a hearty meal celebrated for its savory and slightly sweet nuances.
Variations Across Saudi Arabia
Kabsa rice may be a national dish, but its preparation varies across Saudi Arabia. In some regions, seafood like shrimp or fish replaces chicken or lamb. Others might add vegetables such as carrots or potatoes into their Kabsa.
The choice of spices also differs from one region to another. Some prefer a spicier version using more chili peppers while others opt for a sweeter taste with additional dried fruits.
Serving and Eating Etiquette
When it comes to serving Kabsa, tradition plays an important role. Like other popular dishes in the Middle East, it’s typically served family-style in large platters placed at the center of the table.
Eating etiquette also holds significance in Saudi culture. It’s customary to eat with your right hand while seated on the floor around the platter—a practice that fosters closeness among diners.
More about Saudi Cuisine
Saudi Arabian cuisine is rich in flavors, traditions, and influences from neighboring regions.
Traditional Dishes
Apart from Kabsa, there are several other traditional dishes that are popular in Saudi Arabia. Jareesh, a cracked-wheat dish often served with chicken or lamb, is a favorite. Mutabbaq, a stuffed pancake-like dish filled with meat and spices, is another well-known delicacy.
Mandi is another popular rice dish from the Arabian Peninsula. While Kabsa and Mandi are similar, they differ in flavors, spices, and cooking methods. Mandi is traditionally made in a tandoor (underground oven), giving the rice a unique flavor.
Influences and Ingredients
Saudi cuisine has been influenced by the country’s trading history and Bedouin traditions. Its location on famous cross-continent trading routes introduced many spices to its foods, including saffron, cinnamon, black lime, and cardamom, along with cumin, turmeric, allspice, black pepper, and coriander.
Dates are also a staple food item in Saudi Arabia—consumed on their own or used in various recipes.
Dining Etiquette
Dining etiquette holds significant importance in Saudi culture. Meals are often communal affairs where families gather around a large platter of food placed at the center of the table. It’s customary to eat with your right hand—a practice that fosters closeness among diners.
International Recognition
Saudi Arabian cuisine is gaining recognition globally as more people discover its unique flavors and culinary traditions. From traditional restaurants serving authentic Saudi dishes to online platforms sharing recipes, Saudi cuisine continues to make its mark on the international food scene.
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