Best 3 Everybody Loves Pilaf Recipes

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**Discover the World of Pilaf: A Culinary Journey Through Diverse Flavors and Traditions**

Pilaf, a versatile and delectable dish, has captivated taste buds across cultures and continents for centuries. Originating in the kitchens of Central Asia, it has evolved into a culinary masterpiece, celebrated for its aromatic rice, tender meats, and vibrant vegetables. Join us on a culinary adventure as we delve into the realm of pilaf, exploring three distinct recipes that showcase the diverse flavors and traditions of this beloved dish.

1. **Classic Uzbek Pilaf:** Embark on a journey to the heart of Central Asia with this traditional Uzbek pilaf. Succulent lamb, aromatic rice, and a symphony of spices come together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that embodies the essence of Uzbek cuisine.

2. **Jeweled Persian Pilaf:** Transport yourself to the vibrant streets of Persia with this jeweled pilaf. Basmati rice, adorned with an array of colorful vegetables, nuts, and dried fruits, creates a feast for the eyes and palate. Experience the harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that define Persian cuisine.

3. **Indian Vegetable Biryani:** Dive into the depths of Indian culinary traditions with this irresistible vegetable biryani. Fragrant basmati rice, an array of aromatic spices, and a medley of vegetables unite in a symphony of flavors. Savor the richness of this vegetarian delight, a testament to the culinary artistry of India.

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds and embark on a culinary expedition that will transport you to the heart of diverse cultures and traditions. Let these pilaf recipes guide you through a world of culinary wonders, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for the beauty and versatility of this timeless dish.

Here are our top 3 tried and tested recipes!

PILAF FOR A CURRY BANQUET



Pilaf for a Curry Banquet image

Provided by Nigella Lawson : Food Network

Categories     main-dish

Time 45m

Yield 8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 12

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 cloves
3 cardamom pods, bruised
1 cinnamon stick, broken into 3
1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
1/2 teaspoon nigella seeds, optional
2 1/2 cups basmati rice
4 cups chicken stock
1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted, for garnish
2 to 3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Special equipment: deep saucepan, 9 1/2-inch diameter, with lid

Steps:

  • Cook the onion in the oil, in a deep saucepan with the cloves, cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, cumin seeds, and nigella seeds, if using, until the onion is slightly browned and soft. Keep the heat medium to low and stir frequently; this should take about 10 minutes.
  • Add the rice and move it about in the oily spiced onion until it is slicked and glossy, then pour in the stock and bring the pan to the boil. Cover the pan with a lid and cook over the lowest heat possible for 20 minutes.
  • Turn off the heat, take the lid off, cover with a tea towel and clamp the lid back on the saucepan. You can leave the rice to rest like this for at least 10 minutes, and up to about 1 hour. Fork the rice through when you are ready to serve it, scattering the toasted sliced almonds and cilantro on top.

EASY PILAF



Easy Pilaf image

This basic pilaf is quick and easy to make.

Provided by Elaine Mical

Categories     Side Dish     Rice Side Dish Recipes     Pilaf

Time 50m

Yield 6

Number Of Ingredients 5

2 tablespoons butter
1 onion, chopped
1 cup uncooked white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon salt

Steps:

  • Preheat an oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Prepare a 1 quart baking dish with butter.
  • Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the onion in the butter until translucent, 3 to 5 minutes. Stir in the rice; cook until the rice is slightly golden. Pour in the chicken broth. Season with the salt. Simmer another 5 minutes. Transfer to the prepared dish.
  • Bake in the preheated oven until the broth is completely absorbed, 35 to 40 minutes. Fluff with a fork to serve.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 162.3 calories, Carbohydrate 27.9 g, Cholesterol 10.2 mg, Fat 4.1 g, Fiber 0.6 g, Protein 2.8 g, SaturatedFat 2.5 g, Sodium 416.3 mg, Sugar 0.9 g

RICE PILAF WITH LAMB, CARROTS, AND RAISINS



Rice Pilaf with Lamb, Carrots, and Raisins image

Provided by Sher Dil Qader

Categories     Lamb     Rice     Vegetable     Braise     Dinner     Raisin     Meat     Lamb Shank     Root Vegetable     Carrot     Fall     Winter     Gourmet     Wheat/Gluten-Free     Peanut Free     Tree Nut Free     Soy Free     No Sugar Added

Yield Makes 8 to 10 (main course) servings

Number Of Ingredients 8

3 cups basmati rice (7 ounces)
1 medium onion, chopped
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 pounds boneless lamb shank (from 2 1/4 pounds bone-in shanks), cut into 1 1/2- to 2-inch pieces
4 1/2 to 5 cups water, divided
2 large carrots, cut into 1/8-inch-thick matchsticks
1 cup raisins (6 ounces)
Accompaniments: chicken kebabs and cilantro garlic yogurt sauce

Steps:

  • Wash rice in several changes of cold water in a bowl until water is almost clear. Soak rice in cold water 1 hour, then drain well in a sieve.
  • While rice soaks, cook onion in oil in a wide 5- to 6-quart heavy pot over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until pale golden, about 5 minutes. Pat lamb dry and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt. Add to onion and brown on all sides, about 8 minutes total. Add 1 cup water and bring to a simmer. Cover pot and reduce heat to low, then braise lamb, stirring occasionally, until meat is tender, about 45 minutes.
  • Stir in drained rice, carrots, raisins, and 2 teaspoons salt. Add enough water to cover mixture by 1 inch (3 1/2 to 4 cups) and bring to a boil, uncovered, over medium-high heat. Wrap a kitchen towel around lid with ends of towel on top, then cover pot and boil over medium heat 10 minutes. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, until rice is tender and liquid has been absorbed, about 30 minutes.
  • Fluff rice with a fork and transfer pilaf to a large platter. Top with kebabs and serve with yogurt sauce.

Tips:

  • Use high-quality ingredients. This will make a big difference in the final flavor of your pilaf.
  • Rinse the rice before cooking. This will remove the starch and help the rice cook evenly.
  • Toast the rice before adding the liquid. This will help to develop a nutty flavor.
  • Use a heavy-bottomed pot. This will help to distribute the heat evenly and prevent the rice from burning.
  • Cook the pilaf over low heat. This will help to prevent the rice from becoming mushy.
  • Fluff the rice with a fork before serving. This will help to separate the grains and make the pilaf light and fluffy.

Conclusion:

Pilaf is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side dish. It is a great way to use up leftover rice, and it can also be made with a variety of different ingredients. With a little practice, you can make a delicious pilaf that your whole family will love.

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