Bulgur Pilaf

A hearty and flavorful Middle Eastern side dish, this bulgur pilaf is packed with fresh veggies, aromatic spices, and plenty of fiber. It’s the perfect addition to any meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bulgur Pilaf is a simple yet flavorful side dish that makes a perfect complement to any meal. The bulgur cooks up soft and fluffy, absorbing all the savory spices and tomato paste for a rich, hearty taste. This dish is full of fiber, making it not only delicious but nutritious as well. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats, stews, or vegetables, this pilaf will bring a delicious depth of flavor and texture to your plate. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make in just 30 minutes!

Ingredients

• 2 cups coarse bulgur, rinsed and drained

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 teaspoons cumin

• 1 large onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 3 ½ cups water

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Rinse the bulgur:

1. Place the bulgur in a bowl, rinse a few times, and set aside.

Sauté the veggies and spices:

2. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cumin, cooking for 1 minute or until fragrant.

Add tomato paste:

3. Stir in the tomato paste, mixing well to combine with the onions and garlic.

Combine bulgur and seasonings:

4. Add the salt, pepper, and rinsed bulgur to the pot, stirring again to combine.

Cook the pilaf:

5. Turn the heat to medium-high, add the water, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium, cover the pot with a lid, and cook for 20-25 minutes, until the water is almost completely evaporated.

Finish and serve:

6. Remove the pot from the heat and let the bulgur sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and serve hot.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6 servings

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Vegetables: You can toss in diced carrots, bell peppers, or peas for extra texture and nutrition.

• Herb Variations: Add fresh parsley, mint, or cilantro at the end for an added burst of freshness.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or some diced jalapeños to the mix for a spicy version.

• Protein: For a heartier dish, mix in some chickpeas or grilled chicken for extra protein.

• Broth for Flavor: Substitute water with vegetable or chicken broth to infuse even more flavor into the bulgur.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of water or broth and warm it up in the microwave or on the stove.

FAQs

1. Can I use fine bulgur instead of coarse bulgur?

Yes, you can use fine bulgur, but the cooking time will be shorter. Be sure to adjust the water and cook for only 10-15 minutes instead of 20-25 minutes.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! This pilaf holds up well in the fridge and can be made a day or two in advance. Just reheat it before serving.

3. Can I use a different spice?

Definitely! You can add spices like turmeric, cinnamon, or coriander for a different flavor profile. Experiment with what you like best.

4. Can I make bulgur pilaf in a rice cooker?

Yes, you can! Just add the ingredients to the rice cooker and cook according to the rice cooker instructions for pilaf or white rice. Make sure to adjust the water levels as needed.

5. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze bulgur pilaf for up to 2 months. Store it in an airtight container or freezer bag, and reheat in the microwave or stovetop with a little added liquid.

6. Can I substitute olive oil with another oil?

Yes, you can substitute olive oil with vegetable oil or coconut oil if you prefer.

7. Can I add nuts or dried fruits?

Yes, adding toasted almonds, pine nuts, or raisins can add a great contrast of texture and flavor to the pilaf.

8. Is this dish gluten-free?

No, bulgur is made from wheat, so this dish is not gluten-free. You can substitute bulgur with quinoa or rice for a gluten-free version.

9. How do I know when the pilaf is done cooking?

The pilaf is done when the water is absorbed and the bulgur is tender but not mushy. If you find the bulgur is still too firm, add a bit more water and cook a little longer.

10. Can I make this pilaf spicier?

Yes! You can add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or any other hot spice to the pilaf to give it a spicy kick.

Conclusion

This Bulgur Pilaf is an easy, nutritious, and flavorful side dish that complements almost any meal. Whether you’re serving it with grilled meats, a salad, or enjoying it on its own, this hearty pilaf will add a delicious Middle Eastern twist to your dinner table. Full of spices, veggies, and fiber, it’s the perfect dish to make ahead and serve as part of a comforting meal!

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