Ingredients:
- 2 cups Basmati rice
- 1 kg chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 4 tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons Kabsa spice mix (a blend of cinnamon, black lime, cardamom, cloves, bay leaves, nutmeg, black lime, and black pepper)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and half of the Kabsa spice mix. Set aside to marinate while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until they become golden brown.
- Add Chicken and Brown:
- Add the marinated chicken to the pot and brown it on all sides.
- Incorporate Tomatoes and Tomato Paste:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste, cooking until the tomatoes soften.
- Spice it Up:
- Add the remaining Kabsa spice mix, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly with the spices.
- Add Rice and Broth:
- Pour in the Basmati rice and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is almost cooked.
- Add Vegetables:
- Stir in the thawed peas and carrots, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the pot.
- Finish Cooking:
- Cover the pot again and let it simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and the chicken is tender.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish the Kabsa with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.
- Serve Hot:
- Serve the Palestinian Kabsa hot, either family-style on a large platter or individually plated.
This Palestinian Kabsa recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together aromatic spices and tender chicken with perfectly cooked rice. Enjoy the rich and delicious flavors of this traditional Middle Eastern dish!
