BULGUR PILAF
Bulgur Pilaf is a nourishing and flavourful staple of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine, offering a fluffy, tender texture with a subtle, nutty taste. This single-serving version is light and wholesome, prepared with just a few pantry staples, including fine bulgur wheat, diced tomato, olive oil and vegetable broth. Seasoned with paprika, it’s a perfect side dish or light main for anyone seeking a quick, nutritious grain bowl. Bulgur cooks faster than other grains, making it ideal for busy days or meal prepping. Whether served with grilled vegetables, protein or as part of a mezze spread, this fantastic plant-based base pairs well with vigorous flavours. Naturally vegan, high in fibre and low in fat, bulgur pilaf is a delicious way to bring balance and simplicity to your meal.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Side
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Mediterranean
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Simmer, One-Pot Wonders
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Casual Dinner, Ramadan, Spring, Fall, Potluck, Family Reunion, Back to School, Picnic
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Vegan, Vegetarian, Low Fat, Low Sodium, Quick & Easy, Nut-Free, Dairy-Free, Organic
DISH TYPE
Stuffing / Dressing
INGREDIENTS
Here is a list of ingredients for Bulgur Pilaf :
- ¼ cup fine bulgur wheat
- ½ cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon diced tomato
- ½ teaspoon olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 144.7 kcal
- Fat: 2.9 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.4 g
- Sodium: 41.6 mg
- Carbohydrates: 27.6 g
- Fibre: 4.9 g
- Sugars: 0.6 g
- Protein: 4.5 g
- Calcium: 23 mg
- Iron: 1.1 mg
- Potassium: 190.9 mg
PREPARATION
These steps are followed for the preparation of Bulgur Pilaf:
- Heat Olive Oil: Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a small saucepan.
- Sauté Tomatoes: Add the diced tomato and stir for 1–2 minutes until slightly softened.
- Add Bulgur and Paprika: Stir in the bulgur and paprika, mixing to coat the grains evenly with oil and spices.
- Pour in Broth: Add the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Simmer and Cover: Reduce heat to low, cover the pan with a lid and let it simmer for 8–10 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff and Serve: Remove from heat and let it rest with cover for another 3 minutes. Fluff with a fork and serve warm.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
10 minutes
TIPS
Here are some helpful tips for Bulgur Pilaf:
- Use Fine Bulgur: This cooks quicker and absorbs flavour better than coarser grains.
- Fluff Gently: Use a fork to fluff so the pilaf doesn’t get mushy.
- Enhance with Aromatics: Add a touch of garlic or onion for extra savouriness.
- No Broth? Use Water: If the broth isn’t available, water works fine to adjust the seasoning.
- Rest Before Serving: Let it rest with a cover for a few minutes, which helps to steam it to the perfect texture.
VARIATIONS
- Add Herbs: Stir in chopped parsley or mint at the end for freshness.
- Spice It Up: Add cumin or coriander for a deeper flavour profile.
- Make it a Meal: Add chickpeas, lentils or grilled tofu for a balanced vegan entrée.
- Tomato-Rich: Increase the tomato for a more stew-like, saucier pilaf.
- Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for texture.
- Citrus Zest: A squeeze of lemon adds brightness and complements the paprika.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Pilaf freezes well to store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat Tips: Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of water to keep it moist.
- Make Ahead: Great for meal prep. Double the batch and divide it into portions for ready-to-go sides.