Kabsa – Traditional Saudi Arabian National Dish Recipe

Kabsa is one of Saudi Arabia’s most iconic dishes — a fragrant rice and meat dish seasoned with warm Arabian spices, dried limes (loomi), and tomatoes. The rice absorbs the rich spiced broth, giving Kabsa its signature golden color and deep flavor.

Served at family gatherings, Eid celebrations, and everyday meals, Kabsa represents the heart of Saudi hospitality.

Ingredients for Saudi Kabsa

For the Meat

  • 1 whole chicken (cut into pieces)
    or

  • 1 kg lamb or mutton

  • 2 tbsp oil or ghee

  • 1 onion, chopped

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 tomato, chopped

  • 2 tbsp tomato paste

Kabsa Spice Mix

  • 1 tsp cumin

  • 1 tsp coriander

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • 1 tsp turmeric

  • 1 tsp black pepper

  • ½ tsp cinnamon

  • ½ tsp cardamom powder

  • ½ tsp cloves (ground or whole)

  • 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

Other Ingredients

  • 2–3 dried limes (loomi)

  • 2 carrots, grated

  • 1 bay leaf

  • 3 cups basmati rice (rinsed & soaked 20 minutes)

  • 4–5 cups water or broth

For Garnish

  • Raisins (optional)

  • Toasted almonds or pine nuts

  • Fresh parsley

How to Make Kabsa (Step-by-Step)

1. Sauté the Aromatics

  • Heat oil in a large pot.

  • Add onions; cook until golden.

  • Add garlic and tomatoes; sauté until soft.

  • Stir in tomato paste.

2. Add Chicken or Lamb

  • Add meat pieces and cook until lightly browned.

  • Add all Kabsa spices and mix well.

3. Add Water and Loomi

  • Add dried limes (loomi) and bay leaf.

  • Add enough water or broth to cover the meat.

  • Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer:

    • Chicken: 35–40 minutes

    • Lamb: 1–1.5 hours

Remove meat once cooked and set aside.

4. Add the Rice

  • Add soaked basmati rice to the broth.

  • Add grated carrots for color and sweetness.

  • Gently place cooked chicken/lamb back on top.

5. Steam Until Fluffy

Cover tightly and cook on low heat for 25–30 minutes, until rice is fluffy and liquid absorbed.

6. Serve Kabsa

Place rice on a large platter and arrange chicken/lamb on top.
Garnish with toasted nuts, raisins, or parsley.

Serve with:

  • Fresh salad

  • Yogurt

  • Green chili sauce (dakous)

Tips for Authentic Saudi Flavor

  • Loomi (dried lime) is essential for the Saudi taste.

  • Use basmati rice for long, fluffy grains.

  • Chicken can be broiled for 5 minutes for a crispy top.

  • Ghee adds the richest flavor.

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