Best 9 Couscous And Bulgur Pilaf Recipes

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Tantalize your taste buds with a delightful journey into the world of couscous and bulgur pilaf, two delectable dishes that seamlessly blend the flavors and textures of the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. Couscous, with its fluffy and light texture, and bulgur, known for its nutty flavor and chewy bite, come together to create a symphony of tastes and textures that will leave you craving for more. Embark on a culinary adventure as we present a diverse collection of recipes that showcase the versatility of these grains. From the classic Moroccan couscous with vegetables to the hearty bulgur pilaf with roasted chicken and aromatic spices, each recipe promises a unique and satisfying experience.

**Recipes:**

1. **Moroccan Couscous with Vegetables:**

Transport yourself to the vibrant streets of Marrakech with this classic Moroccan couscous dish. Succulent vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers are stewed in a flavorful broth infused with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika. The tender and fluffy couscous soaks up all the delicious flavors, making each bite a delightful explosion of taste.

2. **Bulgur Pilaf with Roasted Chicken:**

Savor the comforting warmth of bulgur pilaf paired with succulent roasted chicken in this hearty and wholesome dish. The bulgur, with its slightly chewy texture, provides a satisfying bite, while the roasted chicken adds a savory and juicy element. A blend of herbs and spices, including thyme, rosemary, and sumac, elevates the flavors to create a dish that is both comforting and satisfying.

3. **Mediterranean Couscous Salad:**

Relish the freshness and vibrancy of the Mediterranean in this vibrant couscous salad. Tender couscous is tossed with an array of colorful vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions, creating a symphony of colors and flavors. Feta cheese crumbles add a tangy and salty touch, while a refreshing lemon-herb dressing brings it all together, making this salad a perfect light meal or side dish.

4. **Bulgur Pilaf with Spiced Lamb:**

Indulge in the rich and aromatic flavors of the Middle East with this bulgur pilaf featuring succulent spiced lamb. The lamb is marinated in a blend of spices like cumin, cinnamon, and cardamom, then cooked until tender and flavorful. The bulgur pilaf, with its nutty flavor, serves as a perfect accompaniment, soaking up all the delicious juices from the lamb.

5. **Israeli Couscous with Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Chickpeas:**

Discover the vibrant flavors of Israel with this delightful couscous dish. Israeli couscous, known for its larger pearls, is cooked to perfection and tossed with roasted sweet potatoes, chickpeas, and a medley of spices. The sweetness of the roasted vegetables pairs perfectly with the savory and slightly chewy couscous, creating a harmonious and satisfying dish.

6. **Bulgur and Lentil Soup:**

Immerse yourself in the comforting warmth of this bulgur and lentil soup. Bulgur and lentils simmer in a rich and flavorful broth infused with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric. The addition of vegetables like carrots and celery adds a delightful crunch, while a squeeze of lemon juice brightens up the flavors. This hearty and wholesome soup is perfect for a cozy and satisfying meal.

Here are our top 9 tried and tested recipes!

25 EASY WAYS TO COOK WITH BULGUR



25 Easy Ways to Cook With Bulgur image

Get a boost of goodness with these easy and nutritious bulgur recipes. They're low-calorie, nutrient-dense, high in fiber, and ideal for families.

Provided by insanelygood

Categories     Recipe Roundup

Number Of Ingredients 25

Bulgur Pilaf
Bulgur Salad with Cucumbers, Red Peppers, Chickpeas, Lemon, and Dill
Bulgur Wheat, Sweet Potato, and Black Bean Gratin
Mediterranean Bulgur Salad
Bulgur Salad with Fresh Herbs and Lemon
Kisir (Turkish Bulgur Salad)
Tabbouleh
Amazing Bulgur Salad with Roasted Grapes
Lentils and Bulgur Wheat with Caramelized Onions
Chicken and Chickpeas Cold Soup
Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Bulgur
Bulgur Porridge
Fennel and Apple Salad with Bulgur Wheat
Crispy Skin Salmon Grain Bowl with Grilled Vegetables
Mediterranean Halloumi and Bulgur Wheat Salad
Bulgur Wheat Salad with Avocado
Trigo con Leche, or Trigo con Dulce (Bulgur Pudding)
Sweet Cherry Bulgur Salad
Cilantro Lime Tuna Salad
Bulgur Vegetarian Chili
Bulgur Salad with Roast Tomato and Aubergine
Bulgur Stuffed Eggplant
Winter Tabbouleh with Roasted Delicata Squash
Bulgur Nasi Goreng Style
Turkey Kibbeh with Cucumber Salad and Mint Yogurt Sauce

Steps:

  • Select your favorite recipe.
  • Organize all the required ingredients.
  • Prep a delicious recipe in 30 minutes or less!

Nutrition Facts :

BULGUR PILAF



Bulgur Pilaf image

This Lebanese style Bulgur Pilaf recipe is hearty, healthy and delicious; it is full of fiber and infinitely customizable. Easy recipe for bulgur wheat.

Provided by Yumna Jawad

Categories     Side Dish

Time 20m

Number Of Ingredients 12

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 onion (finely chopped)
¼ cup tomato paste
1 vine ripe tomato (finely chopped)
¼ green pepper (finely chopped)
1 ½ cups fine bulgur wheat
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 canned chickpeas (rinsed and drained)
3 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon parsley finely chopped

Steps:

  • Heat the olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Stir in the tomato paste, chopped tomatoes and green peppers, and continue to cook with the onions until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
  • Add the bulgur, cumin, salt and pepper, and stir to combine until the bulgur is completely coated in the tomato paste, about 2-3 minutes.
  • Add the chickpeas on top along with 3 cups of chicken broth or water and stir to combine. Remove from heat, close the lid and allow the bulgur to absorb the liquid for 10 minutes. Open the lid and fluff with a fork.
  • Serve with chopped parsley and fresh vegetables, if desired.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 190 kcal, Carbohydrate 32 g, Protein 6 g, Fat 6 g, SaturatedFat 1 g, Sodium 913 mg, Fiber 8 g, Sugar 3 g, ServingSize 1 serving

HOW TO COOK BULGUR WHEAT



How to Cook Bulgur Wheat image

Your ultimate guide for how to cook bulgur wheat perfectly every time! Bulgur is one of my favorite super grains used often in Mediterranean cooking. This nutritious, versatile grain is delicious in tabouli, kibbeh, in soups or stews, or alongside your favorite protein! I've included instructions for preparing both coarse and fine bulgur wheat.

Provided by Suzy Karadsheh

Categories     Side Dish

Number Of Ingredients 8

1 cup bulgur wheat, (medium-coarse or coarse)
1 ½ cups broth or water
1 tablespoon olive oil, (optional)
Kosher salt
Parsley for garnish
1 cup fine bulgur wheat
2 cups hot water or liquid
Kosher salt

Steps:

  • Rinse 1 cup of bulgur and drain well.
  • In a medium saucepan, bring 1 1/2 cups of low-sodium broth (or water) to a boil. Stir in the drained bulgur and olive oil (if using). Season with a big dash of kosher salt.
  • Allow the liquid to bubble again, then turn the heat down. Cover and let simmer for about 12 minutes or until the bulgur is tender and has fully absorbed the liquid.
  • Remove from the heat and let stand, covered, for another 10 minutes (leave it alone).
  • Fluff with a fork and garnish with parsley before serving.
  • Place 1 cup of dry fine bulgur grains in a large bowl. Pour 2 cups of hot water on top.
  • Set it aside for 10 to 12 minutes to soak. Once the bulgur has soaked all the water, you can fluff it and serve it or use it in tabouli or otherwise.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 100.4 kcal, Carbohydrate 17.7 g, Protein 2.9 g, Fat 2.6 g, SaturatedFat 0.4 g, Sodium 7 mg, Fiber 4.3 g, Sugar 0.1 g, UnsaturatedFat 2.1 g, ServingSize 1 serving

SPICED BULGUR PILAF WITH FISH



Spiced bulgur pilaf with fish image

Use sustainable white fish in this North African-inspired rice one-pot with harissa and apricot - full of iron, fibre and 2 of your 5 -a-day

Provided by Good Food team

Categories     Dinner, Main course

Time 45m

Number Of Ingredients 11

1 tbsp olive oil
2 onions , finely sliced
3 carrots , grated
2 tsp cumin seed
2 tbsp harissa
200g bulgur wheat
6 dried apricots , chopped
700ml weak chicken stock (we made using 1 stock cube)
200g baby spinach
4 firm white fish fillets
4 thin lemon slices

Steps:

  • Heat the oil in a lidded flameproof casserole dish. Tip in the onions and cook for 10 mins until soft and golden. Add the carrots and cumin, and cook for 2 mins more. Stir through the harissa, bulgur and apricots, pour over the stock and bring to the boil. Cover and simmer for 7 mins.
  • Add the spinach and stir through until just wilted. Arrange the fish fillets on top, pop a slice of lemon on each and season. Replace the lid and cook for 8 mins, keeping over a low-ish heat.
  • Turn heat to low and cook for 7-8 mins more until the fish is cooked through and the bulgur is tender. Season with pepper and serve.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 416 calories, Fat 6 grams fat, SaturatedFat 1 grams saturated fat, Carbohydrate 52 grams carbohydrates, Sugar 15 grams sugar, Fiber 7 grams fiber, Protein 37 grams protein, Sodium 1 milligram of sodium

BULGUR PILAF



Bulgur Pilaf image

Categories     Nut     Onion     Side     Steam     Vegetarian     Quick & Easy     Almond     Vegan     Bulgur     Coriander     Gourmet     Sugar Conscious     Kidney Friendly     Pescatarian     Dairy Free     Peanut Free     Soy Free     No Sugar Added     Kosher

Yield Makes 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 8

1/2 cup finely chopped onion (1 small)
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 1/2 teaspoons whole coriander seeds
1 scant cup fine bulgur (see cooks' note, below)
1 cup boiling-hot water
1/3 cup slivered almonds,toasted
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Steps:

  • Cook onion in oil in a 2-quart heavy saucepan over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until golden brown, 5 to 7 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, wrap coriander seeds in a clean kitchen towel and coarsely crush by pressing with flat side of a large heavy knife.
  • Add coriander and bulgur to onion and cook, stirring, 2 minutes. Stir in hot water, then remove from heat and let stand, covered, until bulgur is softened, about 25 minutes. Fluff with a fork, then stir in almonds, salt, and pepper. Serve warm or at room temperature.

EASY COUSCOUS PILAF



Easy Couscous Pilaf image

Carrot, celery, and onion infuse this couscous with loads of flavor.

Provided by Martha Stewart

Categories     Food & Cooking     Ingredients     Pasta and Grains

Time 25m

Number Of Ingredients 7

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small carrot
1 small celery stalk
1 small onion
Coarse salt and pepper
1 cup water
1 cup couscous

Steps:

  • In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add carrot, celery stalk, and onion, all finely chopped; season with coarse salt and ground pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onion is translucent, 6 to 8 minutes. Add water; bring to a boil.
  • Stir in couscous into vegetable mixture in pan. Remove from heat; cover, and let steam 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork. Season with salt and pepper.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 227 g, Fat 3 g, Fiber 2 g, Protein 6 g

BULGUR PILAF WITH CHICKPEAS AND HERBS



Bulgur Pilaf With Chickpeas and Herbs image

This is the type of satisfying high-protein grain and legume dish that easily occupies the center of your dinner plate, accompanied by vegetables or a salad. Cook the chickpeas, then use the soaking water for reconstituting the bulgur. It couldn't be a simpler dish to make.

Provided by Martha Rose Shulman

Categories     dinner, lunch, main course, side dish

Time 1h35m

Yield Serves four to six

Number Of Ingredients 9

1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked in 1 quart water for six hours or overnight and drained
Salt to taste
1 cup coarse bulgur wheat
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 bunch scallions, finely chopped
2 large garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup finely chopped flat-leaf parsley, or a mixture of parsley and dill
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh mint
Juice of 1 lemon

Steps:

  • Drain the soaked chickpeas, and place in a pot with 1 quart water. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer one hour. Add salt to taste and continue to simmer for 30 minutes to an hour, until the chickpeas are tender.
  • Place the bulgur in a 2-quart bowl. Place a strainer over the bowl, and drain the chickpeas so that the hot broth covers the bulgur. Set the chickpeas aside. Cover the bowl, and allow the bulgur to sit until fluffy, about 20 to 30 minutes. Strain and press out excess liquid.
  • Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil over medium heat in a large, heavy skillet, and add the scallions. Cook, stirring, until tender, two or three minutes. Stir in the garlic, and continue to cook until fragrant, 30 seconds to a minute. Stir in the bulgur and chickpeas. Add the herbs and the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, and toss together. Remove from the heat, add lemon juice and pepper, taste and adjust salt. Add more lemon juice if desired. Serve hot or room temperature.

Nutrition Facts : @context http, Calories 259, UnsaturatedFat 5 grams, Carbohydrate 42 grams, Fat 7 grams, Fiber 8 grams, Protein 10 grams, SaturatedFat 1 gram, Sodium 223 milligrams, Sugar 4 grams

COUSCOUS PILAF



Couscous Pilaf image

Looking for a couscous recipe? Then check out this pilaf packed with mushroom, bell pepper and nuts - a side or main dish that can be made ready in 40 minutes!

Provided by By Betty Crocker Kitchens

Categories     Side Dish

Time 40m

Yield 2

Number Of Ingredients 11

3/4 cup uncooked couscous
1 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon butter or margarine
3 ounces fresh mushrooms, chopped (1/2 cup)
1/4 cup chopped cashews or pecans
1/3 cup chopped green bell pepper
1 medium tomato, chopped (2/3 cup)
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
2 green onions, chopped

Steps:

  • Heat oven to 375°. Spray round nonstick baking pan, 9 x 1 1/2 inches, or square baking dish, 8 x 8 x 2 inches, with cooking spray.
  • Mix couscous and broth in pan; cover with aluminum foil. Bake 10 minutes; fluff with fork.
  • Meanwhile, heat butter in 10- inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté mushrooms, cashews and bell pepper until bell pepper is crisp-tender; remove from heat. Stir in remaining ingredients. Stir vegetable mixture into couscous in pan.
  • Bake pilaf, uncovered, 10 minutes longer or until couscous is slightly brown.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 380, Carbohydrate 63 g, Cholesterol 15 mg, Fat 1, Fiber 6 g, Protein 15 g, SaturatedFat 6 g, ServingSize 1 Serving, Sodium 260 mg

BULGUR PILAF WITH ROASTED TOMATOES, ONIONS, AND GARBANZO BEANS



Bulgur Pilaf with Roasted Tomatoes, Onions, and Garbanzo Beans image

Categories     Bean     Onion     Tomato     Side     Roast     Low Fat     Vegetarian     Lunch     Healthy     Vegan     Dill     Parsley     Bulgur     Simmer     Bon Appétit     Pescatarian     Dairy Free     Peanut Free     Tree Nut Free     Soy Free     No Sugar Added     Kosher

Yield Makes 8 (side-dish) servings

Number Of Ingredients 10

2 pounds tomatoes, quartered
1 large onion, cut into 1/2-inch-thick wedges
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 15-ounce can garbanzo beans (chickpeas), drained
4 garlic cloves, crushed
2 1/2 cups water
2 cups bulgur*
4 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 400°F. Spread tomatoes and onion in large roasting pan. Drizzle with oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in garbanzo beans and garlic. Roast until onion is golden, stirring occasionally, about 25 minutes longer. Remove pan from oven. Add 2 1/2 cups water to pan and stir, scraping up browned bits.
  • Transfer roasted vegetable mixture to large saucepan. Bring to boil. Stir in bulgur. Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer until bulgur is tender and liquid is absorbed, about 10 minutes.
  • Stir 3 tablespoons parsley, 1 1/2 tablespoons dill and lemon juice into pilaf. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Transfer to bowl. Sprinkle pilaf with remaining 1 tablespoon parsley and 1/2 tablespoon dill.
  • *Also called cracked wheat, bulgur is available at natural foods stores and many supermarkets nationwide.

Tips:

  • Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh vegetables, flavorful spices, and aromatic herbs will elevate the taste of your pilaf.
  • Pay attention to the cooking method: Couscous and bulgur require different cooking methods, so follow the recipe carefully to ensure the grains are cooked properly.
  • Don't overcook the grains: Couscous and bulgur should be cooked until tender but still have a slight bite to them.
  • Season the pilaf generously: Use a combination of salt, pepper, and other spices to taste. You can also add fresh herbs, lemon juice, or vinegar for a brighter flavor.
  • Let the pilaf rest before serving: This allows the grains to absorb the flavors and juices from the other ingredients.

Conclusion:

Couscous and bulgur pilaf are versatile dishes that can be served as a main course, side dish, or even a salad. They are a great way to add whole grains, vegetables, and protein to your meals. With so many variations to choose from, you're sure to find a recipe that you and your family will love. Experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own unique pilaf dishes.

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