Bulgur pilaf, a staple in Turkish cuisine, offers a hearty and flavorful alternative to traditional rice pilaf. This nutritious dish boasts the wholesome goodness of bulgur wheat, a cracked form of wheat offering a delightful chewy texture and a subtly nutty taste. It's incredibly versatile, easily adaptable to various tastes and dietary needs, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a satisfying side for a special occasion. Beyond its deliciousness, bulgur is packed with fiber, protein, and essential nutrients, making this pilaf a superfood choice for health-conscious individuals.
This simple yet satisfying recipe delivers a perfectly cooked bulgur pilaf, bursting with aromatic spices and bursting with flavor. We'll guide you through each step, ensuring a consistently delicious result every time, even for beginner cooks. Ready to experience the magic of bulgur? Let's dive into the easy-to-follow instructions!
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- Onions: 2 large
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Butter: 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon
- Garlic: 4 cloves
- Tomato paste: 2 tablespoons
- Hot pepper paste: 2 tablespoons
- Bulgur: 2 1/2 cups
- Carrots: 1 small (or 1/2 large)
- Dried mint: 1 tablespoon
- Thyme: 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper: to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional): 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Chickpeas: null
- Water: null
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sauté Aromatics & Prepare Bulgur
- Dice the onions.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a pot. Add onions and cook until softened.
- Add garlic, and cook until fragrant.
- Stir in tomato paste and hot pepper paste, cooking briefly.
- Add bulgur (no need to wash).
- Add grated carrots.
- Add dried mint, thyme, black pepper, red pepper flakes (optional), salt, and chickpeas.
Step 2. Simmer and Cook
- Add water, ensuring the liquid level is slightly above the ingredients. Add an extra teaspoon of butter.
- Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the bulgur is cooked through and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Step 3. Rest & Fluff
- Fluff with a fork, and let it rest for another 10 minutes.
Read more: Red Lentil Soup with Lemon Mint Yogurt: A Food Wishes Recipe
Tips
- Different bulgur sizes are suitable for various dishes. This recipe uses the larger type.
- Don't wash the bulgur; it can make it lose flavor.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preference.
- The cooking time may vary depending on the type of bulgur used.
- Adding a little bit of pickle juice at the end enhances the flavor.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use brown rice instead of bulgur?
While you can substitute, the texture and taste will be significantly different. Bulgur's nutty chewiness is unique.
2. How can I make this pilaf vegetarian/vegan?
This recipe is already vegetarian! To make it vegan, ensure your broth is vegetable-based and omit any butter or dairy.
3. How do I store leftover bulgur pilaf?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
This simple bulgur pilaf recipe is a testament to the deliciousness and versatility of this often-overlooked grain. Enjoy this healthy and flavorful dish as a satisfying side or a light main course, perfect for any occasion. Now go forth and create your own delicious, nutritious bulgur pilaf!