How to make Chicken Kabsa: A step-by-step recipe

 Kabsa is a popular dish in Dubai as well, and it can be found in many traditional Arabic restaurants throughout the city. However, like many dishes, the recipe and preparation can vary slightly depending on the region and the individual restaurant.

In Dubai, Kabsa is often made with chicken, although it can also be made with lamb or beef. It is typically served with a side of fresh vegetables and a spicy tomato sauce, and it may be garnished with fried almonds or raisins for added texture and flavor.

Additionally, as Dubai is a cosmopolitan city with a diverse population, you may also find variations of Kabsa that incorporate ingredients or flavors from other cuisines, such as Indian or Pakistani. Overall, Kabsa is a delicious and satisfying dish that is enjoyed by many people in Dubai and the surrounding region.

Here is a recipe for Chicken Kabsa:

Ingredients:

1 whole chicken, cut into pieces

2 cups of basmati rice

1 onion, chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

2 tomatoes, chopped

1 carrot, chopped

1 green bell pepper, chopped

1 teaspoon of ground cardamom

1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon of ground cloves

1 teaspoon of ground black pepper

Salt to taste

4 cups of chicken broth or water

3 tablespoons of vegetable oil

For serving:

Fried almonds

Raisins

Chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

• In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is translucent.
• Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned on all sides.

• Add the tomatoes, carrot, green bell pepper, and spices, and cook for a few minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

• Add the rice to the pot and stir until it is coated with the oil and spices.

• Pour in the chicken broth or water and stir everything together.

• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.

• Let the Kabsa simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.

• Once the Kabsa is done, fluff the rice with a fork and serve it hot, garnished with fried almonds, raisins, and fresh parsley.

Note: If you're using a pressure cooker, the cooking time will be much shorter - around 10-15 minutes.

Kabsa contains a variety of ingredients that offer health benefits:

Chicken: Chicken is a good source of protein, which is important for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Rice: Rice is a good source of carbohydrates, which provide energy to the body. It is also low in fat and cholesterol.

Vegetables: Kabsa usually contains a variety of vegetables, such as onions, tomatoes, carrots, and bell peppers, which are rich in vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and potassium.

Spices: The spices used in Kabsa, such as cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Nuts: Some variations of Kabsa include nuts, such as almonds, which are a good source of healthy fats, fiber, and protein.

However, it is important to note that Kabsa is often prepared with added salt and oil, so it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.