BUTTERNUT SQUASH PILAF

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Butternut Squash Pilaf image

Provided by Food Network

Categories     side-dish

Time 1h

Yield 8 servings, about 3/4 cup each

Number Of Ingredients 14

2 pounds butternut squash, peeled, halved and seeded
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 large red onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tablespoons water
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 cup instant or parboiled brown rice
1 3/4 cups water or 1 14-ounce can vegetable broth
1/2 cup white wine
1/2 cup chopped fennel fronds (see Ingredient Note)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano
1 teaspoon salt
Pinch of cinnamon
Freshly ground pepper to taste

Steps:

  • Grated butternut squash adds color and nutrients to this brown rice pilaf. Greeks like to use winter squash, especially pumpkin, to make savory and sweet pies, fritters and croquettes, casseroles and myriad other dishes with fall's telltale vegetables, but these dishes are virtually unknown outside the country. It's traditionally made with pumpkin, but since most pumpkins in the U.S. are grown for carving jack-o'-lanterns (and not for cooking), we've modified the recipe to work with readily available butternut squash. The original dish calls for Greek pilaf rice, a short-grained, polished rice that is hard to find outside the country, so we've substituted instant brown rice.
  • Grate the squash through the large holes of a box grater.
  • Heat oil in a large cast-iron or nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Add onion and garlic and cook, stirring, until soft and lightly colored, 10 to 12 minutes. Combine 2 tablespoons water and tomato paste in a small bowl and stir it into the pan. Add rice and stir to coat. Add the squash, in batches if necessary, and stir until it has reduced in volume enough so that you can cover the pan.
  • Increase the heat to medium-high, pour in 1 3/4 cups water (or broth) and wine, cover and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook, covered, stirring once or twice, until the rice has absorbed most of the liquid and the squash is tender, 25 to 30 minutes.
  • Add fennel fronds, oregano, salt, cinnamon and pepper; gently stir to combine. Remove from the heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Serve hot or at room temperature.

Popoola Friday
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I've made this recipe several times and it's always a hit. The squash and rice are perfectly cooked and the spices give it a wonderful flavor. I highly recommend trying this one!


Sabuj Sarker
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This is a great recipe for a quick and easy weeknight meal. The squash and rice cook together in one pot, so there's minimal cleanup. And the flavors are amazing!


MD ROFIKUL ISLAM
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I'm not a big fan of butternut squash, but I really enjoyed this recipe. The squash was perfectly cooked and the pilaf was very flavorful. I'll definitely be making this again!


ghulam aishaus
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This recipe was a bit too spicy for my taste. I think it could have used less chili powder or maybe some yogurt or sour cream to cool it down.


Mary Cuffie
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This is one of my favorite recipes to make in the fall. The squash is so flavorful and the pilaf is perfectly cooked. I always get compliments when I serve this dish.


Mohammad Ramzan
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I love the combination of butternut squash and rice in this pilaf. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that's perfect for a special occasion.


Pandit Bishal
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This dish is a great way to use up leftover butternut squash. It's also a healthy and filling meal that's perfect for a cold winter night.


Data Analytics
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This recipe was a bit too sweet for my taste. I think it could have used less brown sugar or maybe some tart fruit like cranberries to balance out the sweetness.


Rabeya Doli
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I've made this recipe several times and it's always a crowd-pleaser. The squash and rice are perfectly cooked and the spices give it a wonderful flavor. I highly recommend trying this one!


Adel Shaal
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This is a great recipe for a weeknight meal. It's quick and easy to make, and it's always a hit with my family. I usually serve it with a side of roasted vegetables.


Henry Kirunda
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I love this recipe! It's so easy to make and always turns out delicious. I usually add a bit of chopped walnuts or pecans for a bit of crunch.


Obi Wisdom
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This dish was a bit bland for my taste. I think it could have used more spices or herbs. The squash was also a bit undercooked for my liking.


Ahsan Noman
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Tried this recipe last night and it turned out great! The squash was perfectly tender and the pilaf was fluffy and flavorful. I served it with grilled chicken and it was a perfect meal. Will definitely be making this again!


Ria Khan
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This is one of my favorite fall recipes. The butternut squash is so flavorful and the pilaf is perfectly cooked. I usually add a bit of chopped fresh parsley at the end for a pop of color and flavor.


Kalpana singh Bam
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Just made this for dinner and it was a hit! My family loved the sweet and savory flavors of the squash and the fluffy rice. The recipe was easy to follow and the dish came out perfect. Highly recommend trying this one!


Are Oladoyin
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This butternut squash pilaf is a delicious and easy-to-make dish! The flavors of the squash, onion, garlic, and spices blend together perfectly. I added a bit of extra cumin and paprika for a bit of a kick, and it turned out great. Will definitely be