This is just one variation of the classic Arabian spice mix which is used in the ancient Saudi Arabian dish called Al Kabsa or Al Kabsah; a chicken and rice dish which is fragrant and lightly spiced - and is thought to originate from the nomadic Bedouin tribes. Arabic cuisine has its roots in tent cookery. Nomadic tribes could use only transportable foods such as rice and dates, or their nomadic stock like sheep and camels in their recipes. As the caravans journeyed throughout the Middle East, new seasonings and vegetables were discovered and added to the existing repertoire. Each new discovery was incorporated into the diet in quantities palatable to a particular tribe - a fact that many cooks believe is responsible for the anomalies found in some Arabic dishes today.