Ingredients

5 ounces dry green lentils ( soaked in water overnight )
5 ounces cracked bulgur wheat
2 ounces currants
2 teaspoons coriander seeds
1/2 teaspoon clove
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
salt & fresh ground pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 ounces pine nuts
3 skinless chicken breasts , cut into thin strips and seasoned with
salt and pepper
2 ounces butter
3 medium carrots , diced
1 large red onion , chopped
5 fluid ounces chicken stock
1/2 cup flat leaf parsley , chopped
1/4 cup coriander leaves , chopped
1 pint yoghurt
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves , chopped
salt & fresh ground pepper
Turkish Pilaf refers to a traditional rice and lentil-based dish that originated in Turkey. This flavorful and wholesome meal is commonly enjoyed as a main dish or a side dish and is usually served with yogurt and fresh herbs. The dish is easy to make and usually requires a few simple ingredients like lentils, bulgur, spices, and chicken. It is a perfect option for individuals who want to add more plant-based proteins and fiber to their diet. Moreover, the variety of spices and herbs used in the dish not only makes the dish taste good but also provides various health benefits.

Instructions

1.Rinse the lentils and bulgur wheat together in cold water.
2.Add the soaked lentils and bulgur wheat in a pot and add enough water to cover them.
3.Mix in the currants, coriander seeds, cloves, cinnamon, ground cardamom, salt, and pepper.
4.Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and leave it to cook until the lentils and bulgur wheat are tender, around 15 minutes.
5.Toast the pine nuts until golden brown in a different pan.
6.In a separate pan, heat the olive oil and cook the chicken slices until they turn brown. Set aside.
7.In the same pan, melt the butter and add the diced carrots and chopped onion.
8.Cook the vegetables on medium heat until they have softened.
9.Add the cooked chicken to the pan along with the chicken stock and bring it to a boil.
10.Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
11.Add the cooked lentil and bulgur mixture along with the toasted pine nuts to the pan and mix well. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
12.Stir in all the herbs and serve the dish with a dollop of yogurt and chopped mint leaves on top.

PROS

Turkish Pilaf is a flavorful and nutritious meal that is easy to prepare.

It is loaded with protein, fiber and is low in fat and sugar.

The variety of spices and herbs not only makes the dish taste good but also has various health benefits.

CONS

Turkish Pilaf is a high-carb dish and may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with diabetes or those following a low carb diet.

It also contains pine nuts, which can cause an allergic reaction in some people.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Turkish Pilaf has numerous health benefits as it is packed with nutrients, protein, and fiber.
The dish contains lentils that are high in dietary fiber, which helps lower cholesterol levels and aids digestion.
Bulgur is low in fat, high in fiber, and rich in vitamins and minerals like iron, B-vitamins, magnesium, and phosphorus.
Furthermore, the spices used in the dish are also known to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties that can enhance immunity and improve overall health.

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