Embark on a culinary journey to the Middle East with our Kabsa recipe. Kabsa is a flavorful and aromatic spiced rice dish that's a beloved staple across the region. This traditional recipe captures the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine, offering a symphony of flavors and a delightful taste of cultural heritage.

Ingredients:

To create this mouthwatering Kabsa, gather the following ingredients:

2 cups long-grain Basmati rice

1 lb (450g) bone-in chicken or lamb, cut into pieces

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 large onion, finely chopped

3 cloves of garlic, minced

2 tomatoes, diced

2 carrots, peeled and diced

2 tablespoons Kabsa spice mix (a blend of cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and other spices)

1 cinnamon stick

1 bay leaf

Salt and black pepper to taste

4 cups chicken or beef broth

1/2 cup raisins (optional)

Slivered almonds and fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

Follow these steps to create your Kabsa masterpiece

Sear the Meat:

Heat the vegetable oil in a large, heavy pot. Sear the chicken or lamb pieces until they're browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics:

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until they become soft and fragrant.

Add the Vegetables and Spices:

Stir in the diced tomatoes, carrots, Kabsa spice mix, cinnamon stick, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes release their juices.

Simmer with Broth:

Return the seared meat to the pot and pour in the chicken or beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 30 minutes.

Add Rice and Raisins:

Stir in the Basmati rice and raisins, if using. Cover and continue to cook until the rice is tender and has absorbed the flavorful broth, about 20-25 minutes.

Serving:

Kabsa is traditionally served on a large platter. Garnish with slivered almonds and fresh cilantro for a touch of freshness and crunch. It's a delightful and hearty dish perfect for gatherings and family dinners.

In conclusion, Kabsa is a celebration of Middle Eastern cuisine, combining fragrant spices with tender meat and perfectly cooked rice. By preparing this dish, you can experience the rich and authentic taste of the region.