Chicken Kabsa with Basmati Rice

Ingredients

Ghee

3 tablespoons

Onion

1 large, chopped

Garlic

4 cloves, minced

Chicken

1.5 lbs, cut into pieces (bone-in, skin-on recommended for flavor)

Tomatoes

2 medium, diced

Carrots

1 large, diced

Green bell pepper

1, diced

Cinnamon stick

1

Cardamom pods

4

Cumin powder

1 teaspoon

Turmeric powder

1 teaspoon

Black pepper

1/2 teaspoon

Salt

to taste

Chicken broth

3 cups

Basmati rice

2 cups

Fresh cilantro

1/4 cup, chopped (for garnish)

Raisins

1/3 cup

Almonds

1/3 cup, sliced

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the ghee over medium heat until melted.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
3. Introduce the chicken pieces to the pot and brown them on all sides, approximately 8-10 minutes. This step enhances the flavor by sealing in the juices.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, carrots, and green bell pepper, mixing everything well.
5. Add the cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cumin powder, turmeric powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and let the spices bloom for a minute, allowing their essential oils to release.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
7. While the chicken is simmering, rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch.
8. After 20 minutes, add the rinsed rice to the pot, stirring gently to combine with the chicken and vegetables.
9. Cover the pot again and simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is fluffy and fully cooked. Avoid lifting the lid to ensure proper steaming.
10. In a separate pan, heat a little ghee over medium heat. Sauté the sliced almonds and raisins until golden brown, about 3-5 minutes. This adds a delightful crunch and sweetness to the dish.
11. Serve the Chicken Kabsa hot, garnished with the sautéed almonds, raisins, and fresh cilantro.