Kabsa spice (Bahārāt al-kabsa)

Kabsa spice is a traditional spice blend used predominantly in Saudi Arabian cuisine, particularly for kabsa, a popular spiced rice and meat dish found throughout the Arabian Peninsula. This spice mix is crafted to infuse rice and meats with a rich, aromatic, and slightly smoky flavor.

Kabsa spice typically includes black lime (loomi), cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, cumin, black pepper, coriander, turmeric, and occasionally saffron or nutmeg. Black lime is a key ingredient, adding a tart and slightly bitter citrusy note that balances the warmth of cinnamon and cloves, while cardamom and cumin provide earthy undertones.

The resulting flavor of kabsa spice is warm, earthy, slightly sweet, smoky, and tangy with a touch of heat. It pairs well with long-grain rice like basmati and is used to season meats like lamb, chicken, and goat. This blend is commonly added to the cooking water for rice or used as a marinade or rub for meats, giving dishes a complex aroma that’s both inviting and distinct to the Gulf region.