Kabsa, a popular rice dish

Kabsa, a popular rice dish Often made with lamb or chicken, served with fragrant yellow spiced rice, vegetables, and garnished with roasted almonds and cashews. Kabsa is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, known for its rich flavors and vibrant presentation.

Ingredients:

Kabsa, a popular rice dish-For the Lamb:

  • 1.5 kg lamb (cut into large pieces)
  • 2 large onions (chopped)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 3 large tomatoes (chopped)
  • 4 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 carrots (sliced)
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, corn, etc.)
  • 1 cup roasted almonds and cashews (for garnish)
  • 6 cups water or broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice:

  • 3 cups basmati rice (rinsed)
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • ½ teaspoon ground cloves
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 5 whole cloves
  • 2-3 whole cardamom pods
  • 1 small cinnamon stick
  • ½ cup raisins (optional)
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Kabsa, a popular rice dishPrepare the Lamb:

  • In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  • Add the lamb pieces to the pot and brown them on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Stir in the chopped tomatoes, carrots, and any additional vegetables. Season with salt, pepper, and a little cumin and coriander.
  • Pour in the water or broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the lamb simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender.

2. Cook the Rice:

  • While the lamb is simmering, prepare the rice.
  • In a separate pot, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the whole spices (bay leaves, whole cloves, cardamom pods, and cinnamon stick) and sauté for a minute to release their aroma.
  • Add the rinsed rice to the pot and stir in the ground cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cardamom, turmeric, and ground cloves. Sauté the rice for about 2 minutes to coat it with the spices.
  • Pour in 6 cups of water or broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook the rice for about 15-20 minutes, or until fully cooked and fluffy.
  • Stir in the raisins (if using) and fluff the rice with a fork.

3. Assemble the Kabsa:

  • Once the lamb and rice are both fully cooked, arrange the rice on a large serving platter.
  • Place the tender lamb pieces on top of the rice.
  • Garnish with roasted almonds, cashews, and additional vegetables like carrots and peas for added texture and color.

4. Serve:

  • Serve the Kabsa hot, accompanied by a side of yogurt or a simple tomato salsa for an extra layer of flavor.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 650-750 kcal
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Carbohydrates: 85 g

This Kabsa is rich in flavors and spices, making it a flavorful and hearty meal for special occasions or gatherings. Enjoy!

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