Lime-Infused Bulgar Pilaf with Raisins and Toasted Pine Nuts
This aromatic Lime-Infused Bulgar Pilaf is a delightful blend of textures and flavors, embodying the essence of Turkish cuisine. The nutty flavor of bulgur wheat pairs excellently with the sweetness of raisins and the richness of toasted pine nuts, while fresh lime zest adds a bright, refreshing note. A perfect side dish or vegetarian main, this pilaf not only brings a taste of Turkey to your table but also offers a wholesome, nutritious option for any meal. Enjoy this vibrant dish that is as beautiful as it is delicious!
6
Servings
140
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
olive oil
1 teaspoon (none)
onion
1 cup (finely chopped)
vegetable broth
2 cups (none)
bulgur wheat
2 cups (uncooked)
raisins
1/3 cup (none)
fresh lime peel
1 teaspoon (grated)
ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon (none)
dill weed
1/4 teaspoon (none)
salt
1/8 teaspoon (none)
dried thyme
1/8 teaspoon (none)
pine nuts
2 tablespoons (toasted)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently. If the onions start to stick, add a tablespoon of water to keep them from burning.
2
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally.
3
Once boiling, add the uncooked bulgur wheat, raisins, grated lime peel, ground cinnamon, dill weed, salt, and dried thyme. Stir well to combine, then cover the saucepan with a lid.
4
Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for approximately 10 minutes, or until the bulgur is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
5
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6
After resting, fluff the bulgur gently with a fork to separate the grains.
7
Spoon the pilaf into a shallow serving bowl and finish by gently sprinkling the toasted pine nuts over the top.
Nutrition Information
2.8g
Fat
26.5g
Carbs
3.8g
Protein
4g
Fiber
1.8g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lime-Infused Bulgar Pilaf?
It is a Turkish-inspired dish made from bulgur wheat, flavored with lime zest, raisins, and toasted pine nuts.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is completely vegetarian and also vegan as it uses vegetable broth and no animal products.
How many calories are in one serving of this pilaf?
Each serving contains approximately 140 calories.
What type of cuisine does this dish belong to?
This recipe is categorized as Turkish cuisine.
How long should the bulgur simmer?
The bulgur should simmer on low heat for approximately 10 minutes until tender.
Can I substitute the vegetable broth?
Yes, you can use chicken broth if you do not require the dish to be vegetarian, or water with a bit more salt.
What can I use if I do not have pine nuts?
Sliced almonds or chopped walnuts make excellent substitutes for toasted pine nuts.
Can I use lemon zest instead of lime zest?
Yes, lemon zest will provide a similar citrusy brightness, though the flavor profile will shift slightly.
Is bulgur wheat gluten-free?
No, bulgur is a cracked wheat product and contains gluten.
How much fiber is in each serving?
There are 4 grams of fiber per serving.
What spices are used in this recipe?
The dish is seasoned with ground cinnamon, dill weed, salt, and dried thyme.
Can I add extra protein to this dish?
Absolutely. Cooked chickpeas or grilled chicken can be stirred in to make it a more substantial meal.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
How should the onion be prepared?
The onion should be finely chopped before being sautéed in olive oil.
Why is it important to let the pilaf rest after cooking?
Resting for 5 minutes allows the moisture to redistribute and the flavors to meld properly.
Can I use brown rice instead of bulgur wheat?
You can, but brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid than bulgur wheat.
How much olive oil is required?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of olive oil.
What kind of raisins should I use?
Standard dark raisins or golden raisins both work well in this pilaf.
Can this be made in a rice cooker?
Yes, you can sauté the onions first and then transfer everything to a rice cooker using the standard white rice setting.
Is there any cholesterol in this recipe?
Based on the ingredients, this dish contains 0mg of cholesterol.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 2.8 grams of fat.
How much bulgur wheat is needed?
You will need 2 cups of uncooked bulgur wheat.
Can I omit the cinnamon?
Yes, though the cinnamon provides a traditional Turkish aromatic quality that defines the dish.
What are some suggested side dishes for this pilaf?
It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, lamb kebabs, or a fresh cucumber yogurt salad.
Can I use fresh thyme instead of dried?
Yes, use about triple the amount of fresh thyme if substituting for dried.
How do I toast the pine nuts?
Toast them in a dry pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until golden brown.
Is this recipe low in sugar?
Yes, it contains only 1.8 grams of sugar per serving, primarily from the raisins.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
What is the total carbohydrate count?
There are 26.5 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How do I fluff the bulgur?
Use a fork to gently rake through the cooked grains to separate them without mashing them.