Turkish pilaf with bulgur wheat, (leftover) lentils and tomatoes. A quick, light dinner recipe that is vegetarian and super easy to make. Meal prep possible too.
Today we are preparing a quick vegetarian dinner with bulgur and lentils. Perfect satisfying meal that is light and adaptable. Not to mention gluten-free and vegetarian.
FUN FACT: Turkish pilaf ( traditionally made with rice), also called ‘pilav’ in Turkish cuisine, is a staple dish enjoyed across the country and beyond. bulgur pilaf on the other hand, is also commonly found in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, it offers a nutritious and hearty alternative to rice-based pilafs. It can be enjoyed as either main meal or a side dish.
Ingredients and substitutions
- Lentils – Green or brown work best, precooked and drained of any water
- Bulgur wheat – small variety
- Tomato paste- plain tomato sauce or spaghetti sauce works too
- Butter – adds a little something extra. Olive oil can be used too
- Water for the meal and for lentils- or stock/broth
- Seasoning: oregano, nutmeg, salt and black pepper
How to cook Turkish Bulgur Pilaf
1st: Cook the lentils in water and set aside. Sauté onions in butter and add spices and tomato paste. Add more butter as needed.
2nd: Then, add bulgur wheat, water and precooked lentils. Let simmer until cooked. Stir frequently to avoid bulgur sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Turkish Pilaf with Bulgur and Lentils
Equipment
- 1 cooking pot
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils (green/brown), precooked
- 1/2 cup bulgur, washed
- 3 tbsp. tomato paste
- 5 tbsp. butter
- pinch of nutmeg
- sea salt and pepper to taste
- 3,5 cups water, for pilaf
- 4 cups water, or more as needed, for lentils
Instructions
- First, in a cooking dish with lid, add water and raw (washed) lentils, simmer on the stove until fully cooked. Drain any excess water and set aside.
- Then, in a large sauce pan add butter and bulgur, brown for a few minutes until golden while stirring frequently. Add tomato paste, precooked lentils and water for pilaf.
- Lastly, let simmer on the stove top until fully cooked. Stir frequently as needed.
- Before removing from stove season with sea salt, pepper and nutmeg. Stir to incorporate well. Let cook for a minute and serve.
Notes
Nutrition
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