Chicken Kabsa, a fragrant and flavorful Arabian rice dish, is a culinary gem waiting to be discovered. Its rich blend of tender chicken, aromatic spices, and fluffy rice creates a symphony of taste that's both comforting and exotic. The dish is surprisingly accessible, even for home cooks, promising a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant price tag. Imagine the tantalizing aroma of saffron, cardamom, and cloves filling your kitchen as you create this masterpiece. The satisfying crunch of toasted nuts and the juicy perfection of the chicken will leave you wanting more.
This incredible recipe uses readily available ingredients and simple techniques to achieve truly exceptional results. Forget complicated instructions and lengthy prep times – this version focuses on ease and deliciousness. Ready to embark on a culinary journey? Let's dive into the step-by-step process to create your own unforgettable Chicken Kabsa.
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Blender
- Knife
- Plate
- Air fryer or oven
Ingredients
- Brown onions
- Tomatoes
- Garlic cloves
- Black cumin seeds
- Coriander seeds
- Black pepper
- Cinnamon
- Green cardamoms
- Cloves
- Nutmeg
- Turmeric
- Salt
- Paprika: optional
- Black lime
- Basmati rice
- Chicken stock cube
- Green chilies
- Whole chicken: 1
- Oil
- Ghee
- Yogurt
- Cucumber
- Lemon: ½
- Fresh coriander
- Milk
- Toasted almonds
- Bay leaves
- Hot sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Aromatics
- Thinly slice brown onions.
- Evenly chop tomatoes and garlic cloves.
- Blend black cumin seeds, coriander seeds, black pepper, cinnamon, green cardamoms, cloves, nutmeg, turmeric, salt, and optional paprika.
- Add black lime to the spice mix and parse it with a knife to extract more flavor.
- Wash basmati rice to remove excess starch and soak in water for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2. Cook Chicken and Rice
- Heat oil in a pan at medium heat. Add chicken (skin-side down if using skin-on) and brown on both sides.
- Remove chicken and add sliced onions to the pan. Cook until golden brown.
- Add garlic to the pan and toast until fragrant.
- Lightly toast tomato paste before adding tomatoes. Mix well.
- Add spice blend and mix thoroughly. Cook for 3 minutes, covered.
- Add water, chicken stock cube, and bay leaves. Return chicken to the pan with any leftover juices. Simmer for 40 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
- Add green chilies during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Remove chicken from the stock and set aside. Reserve the cooking liquid.
- Add rice to the reserved cooking liquid. Simmer until some water remains.
- Cover the rice with a clean kitchen cloth and lid. Steam for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Step 3. Make the Yogurt Cucumber Sauce
- Combine yogurt, thinly sliced cucumber (seeds removed), lemon juice, chopped coriander, garlic, black pepper, cumin, salt, and milk. Mix well.
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Mix ghee with some of the spice blend and brush onto the chicken. Bake in an air fryer or oven at 200°C for 8-10 minutes to add color and aroma.
- Fluff the cooked rice.
- Serve the chicken kabsa over rice, garnished with toasted almonds and fresh coriander. Serve with the yogurt cucumber sauce and hot sauce.
Read more: Lebanese Beef Spinach Stew with Peppered Rice: A Winter Delight
Tips
- Adjust the consistency of the yogurt cucumber sauce by adding more or less milk.
- Use chicken thighs instead of a whole chicken if preferred.
Nutrition
- Calories: 600-800
- Fat: 30-50g
- Carbs: 60-80g
- Protein: 40-50g
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of meat in Kabsa?
Absolutely! Chicken is traditional, but you can also use lamb, beef, or even fish. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
2. What if I don't have all the spices listed?
Don't worry! Kabsa is forgiving. Use what you have – the most important are saffron, cloves, and cardamom. The flavor will still be delicious.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Kabsa tastes even better the next day. Prepare it a day ahead, store it in the refrigerator, and reheat gently before serving.
So there you have it – your own delicious homemade Chicken Kabsa! This recipe is a testament to how accessible and rewarding authentic Arabian cuisine can be. Enjoy the rich flavors and share this incredible dish with your friends and family.