Savory Mushroom Bulgur Pilaf
This Savory Mushroom Bulgur Pilaf is a delightful side dish that perfectly complements any meat main course with its rich, earthy flavors. The sautéed mushrooms and onions provide a depth of flavor that is further enhanced by the nutty bulgur grains. Serve it warm as a comforting side or let it cool and toss it with fresh garden vegetables and crumbled feta cheese for a refreshing and wholesome veggie meal. This versatile dish is not only nutritious but also a crowd-pleaser at gatherings, picnics, or family dinners.
N/A
Servings
45
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
olive oil
2 tablespoons (none)
mushrooms
8 ounces (sliced)
onion
1 medium (diced)
bulgur
1 cup (coarse cut)
water
2 cups (none)
salt
to taste (none)
pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2
Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent and soft, about 5 minutes.
3
Increase the heat to high and add the sliced mushrooms. Stir frequently, allowing them to brown and cook down, which should take another 5-7 minutes.
4
Stir in the coarse-cut bulgur and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the grains, stirring constantly.
5
Pour in the water, season with salt and pepper to taste, and give the mixture a gentle stir.
6
Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow it to simmer undisturbed until all the water is absorbed, approximately 20-25 minutes.
7
Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit, covered, for another 5 minutes to steam.
8
Fluff the bulgur pilaf with a fork before serving, ensuring the mushrooms and onions are evenly distributed.
Nutrition Information
1.75g
Fat
6.25g
Carbs
1.25g
Protein
1g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Mushroom Bulgur Pilaf?
It is a hearty, earthy side dish made with coarse-cut bulgur, sautéed mushrooms, and onions, offering a nutty flavor and chewy texture.
Which type of mushrooms should I use for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms; white button, cremini, or portobello mushrooms work exceptionally well.
Is this mushroom bulgur pilaf vegan?
Yes, as written with olive oil, water, and vegetables, this recipe is 100% vegan-friendly.
Can I use fine-cut bulgur instead of coarse-cut?
Coarse-cut bulgur is recommended for this pilaf to maintain a distinct, chewy texture; fine-cut bulgur may become too soft or mushy.
How long does it take to cook the bulgur?
After adding water, the bulgur needs to simmer for approximately 20-25 minutes, followed by a 5-minute steaming period off the heat.
What is the secret to perfectly cooked mushrooms in this dish?
Increasing the heat to high when adding the mushrooms allows them to brown and cook down effectively in about 5-7 minutes.
Why should I toast the bulgur before adding water?
Toasting the bulgur for 1-2 minutes in the oil and vegetables enhances its natural nutty flavor and helps the grains stay separate.
Can I substitute water with broth?
Absolutely. Using vegetable or chicken broth instead of water will add an extra layer of savory depth to the pilaf.
How many calories are in a serving of this pilaf?
This recipe contains approximately 45 calories per serving according to the provided nutritional data.
Can I serve this dish cold?
Yes, once cooled, this pilaf can be tossed with fresh vegetables and feta cheese to be served as a refreshing grain salad.
Is bulgur wheat gluten-free?
No, bulgur is a cereal food made from cracked parboiled wheat, so it contains gluten and is not suitable for those with celiac disease.
What is the best way to fluff the pilaf?
Use a fork to gently fluff the grains after they have steamed, which helps distribute the mushrooms and onions evenly without mashing the bulgur.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any remaining pilaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can this recipe be frozen?
Yes, bulgur pilaf freezes well. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months and reheat thoroughly before serving.
What main courses pair well with this side dish?
It pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, lamb chops, or even roasted root vegetables for a vegetarian meal.
Can I use butter instead of olive oil?
Yes, substituting butter for olive oil will add a richer, creamier flavor to the base of the dish.
Does this recipe contain many carbohydrates?
Each serving contains approximately 6.25g of carbohydrates, making it a relatively low-carb grain option in small portions.
How much fiber does this dish provide?
There is about 1g of dietary fiber per serving, contributing to the nutritional value of this whole-grain dish.
Can I add other vegetables to the pilaf?
Certainly. Sliced carrots, bell peppers, or peas can be added during the sautéing phase to increase the nutrient content.
What should I do if the water isn't fully absorbed after 25 minutes?
If water remains, cook it uncovered for a few extra minutes on low heat, or simply let it stand covered for longer to allow the grains to absorb the moisture.
Can I make this in a rice cooker?
Yes, you can sauté the vegetables in a pan first and then transfer everything to a rice cooker using the standard white rice setting.
How much protein is in the Savory Mushroom Bulgur Pilaf?
There is approximately 1.25g of protein per serving in this recipe.
Is it necessary to rinse the bulgur before cooking?
While not strictly required for coarse bulgur, rinsing can remove excess starch. However, this recipe proceeds directly to toasting the dry grains.
Can I use dried mushrooms for this recipe?
Yes, but you must rehydrate them in warm water first. You can even use the soaking liquid in place of some of the 2 cups of water for extra flavor.
How do I know when the onions are ready?
The onions are ready when they become translucent and soft, which typically takes about 5 minutes over medium heat.
Can I add fresh herbs to this pilaf?
Yes, stirring in fresh parsley, dill, or mint right before serving adds a wonderful burst of freshness to the earthy flavors.
Is this dish considered a comfort food?
Yes, due to its warm, savory profile and hearty grain texture, it is often categorized as a healthy comfort food.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
There are 7 main ingredients: olive oil, mushrooms, onion, bulgur, water, salt, and pepper.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 1.75g of fat, primarily from the olive oil used for sautéing.
Can I add nuts for crunch?
Yes, toasted pine nuts, slivered almonds, or chopped walnuts make excellent additions for added texture and flavor.