Bulgur Pilaf – Traditional Turkish Style

Preparation

1. 01

   Step 01

   Place the bulgur in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold water until the starch is washed away, then drain well.

2. 02

   Medium heat, 5 minutes

   Melt the butter over medium heat, add the finely diced onion, and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

3. 03

   Medium heat, 1-2 minutes

   Add the tomato paste and cook, stirring, for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

4. 04

   Medium heat, 2 minutes

   Add the drained bulgur and toast, stirring, for 2 minutes until the grains are coated with the butter and tomato paste.

5. 05

   Step 05

   Add the hot water (or chicken broth), salt, black pepper, and optional diced green bell pepper. Stir once.

6. 06

   Low heat, covered, 15-18 minutes

   Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and cook on low heat for 15-18 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.

7. 07

   Resting, 10 minutes

   Remove from heat and let rest, covered, for 10 minutes.

8. 08

   Step 08

   Remove the lid and fluff with a fork to separate the grains, then serve hot.