Description
Enjoy a wholesome and flavorful bulgur tomato pilaf with sautéed onions and fresh tomatoes—a perfect side or main dish for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups coarse bulgur: The star ingredient, bulgur wheat, provides a nutty flavor and chewy texture that gives the dish its heartiness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This healthy fat enhances the flavors of the dish. Feel free to substitute with avocado oil or melted coconut oil if desired.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: The onion adds sweetness and depth to the dish. You can also use shallots for a milder flavor.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: This concentrated tomato flavor intensifies the overall taste of the pilaf.
- 2 cups tomatoes, peeled and chopped: Fresh tomatoes add juiciness and a bright flavor. You can use canned diced tomatoes for convenience.
- 1 cup water (more if needed): Essential for cooking the bulgur, it hydrates the grains and brings all the ingredients together.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Fundamental seasonings that enhance all the flavors; don’t overlook their importance.
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley for garnish: This adds a fresh flavor and a pop of color to your finished dish.
Instructions
- Prepare the Bulgur: Start by rinsing 2 cups of coarse bulgur under running water to remove any impurities. Drain well and set aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Sauté the Onions: In a large pot or saucepan over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add 1 medium chopped onion. Sauté the onions for about 7-8 minutes or until they turn golden brown and fragrant.
- Add Tomato Paste: Stir in 1 tablespoon tomato paste to the onions, mixing well to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the tomato paste to deepen in flavor.
- Add Fresh Tomatoes: Incorporate 2 cups of peeled and chopped tomatoes into the pot. Cook for approximately 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
- Mix in Bulgur: Add the rinsed and drained bulgur to the pot, stirring well to combine. Pour in 1 cup of water and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, allowing it to simmer for about 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally, until the bulgur is cooked through and has absorbed most of the liquid. If the pilaf seems too dry, add a little more water as needed.
- Finish and Serve: Once done, turn off the heat and let the pilaf rest for a few minutes. Fluff with a fork, garnish with 1 tablespoon chopped parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy your tasty meal!