Delight your taste buds with the wonderful flavors of Bulgur Pilaf with Vermicelli, a simple yet satisfying dish that combines browned or small pasta with bulgur. This pilaf is a delightful medley of textures and tastes, making it a perfect side dish or a light meal on its own. If you’re looking to explore other grain options, consider using whole wheat or regular couscous for a delightful twist. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner.
MAKES: 4 servings
TIME: 30 minutes
INGREDIENTS:
- 4 tablespoons butter or extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large or 2 medium onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup vermicelli, broken into 2-inch-long or shorter lengths, or other smaller pasta
- 1 cup fine- or medium-grind bulgur
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional)
- 2 1/4 cups chicken, beef, or vegetable stock (heated) or water, brought to a boil
INSTRUCTIONS:
- In a medium skillet or saucepan with a lid, place the butter or oil over medium heat. Once the butter is melted or the oil is hot, add the chopped onion. Cook and stir until the onion becomes soft, which should take about 5 minutes.
- Add the vermicelli and bulgur to the skillet, stirring continuously until the pasta is lightly browned. This should take less than 5 minutes. Season the mixture with salt and pepper. Optionally, add the tomato paste and the boiling stock.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 10 minutes. Then, turn off the heat and let the pilaf sit until the bulgur becomes tender, which should take about 15 minutes.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preference, and your delightful Bulgur Pilaf with Vermicelli is ready to be served.
VARIATIONS:
- Bulgur Pilaf with Vermicelli and Sausage: Add about 6 ounces of sausage, removed from its casings and crumbled, to the skillet along with the onion. Cook it until it loses its pink color, and then proceed with the rest of the recipe.
- Bulgur Pilaf with Lentils: Add the tomato paste, 1 cup of cooked lentils, 1 teaspoon of minced garlic, hot red pepper flakes, and ground cumin or curry powder to the pilaf mixture. This variation adds a burst of flavors and nutrients to the dish.
USES:
- Bulgur Pilaf with Vermicelli makes for a fantastic side dish to complement various main courses, such as roasted chicken, grilled fish, or seared tofu. You can also enjoy it as a light and flavorful main dish on its own. This versatile dish is a perfect addition to your family dinners or as part of a delightful spread during gatherings with friends.
Savor the delicious blend of textures and flavors with this quick and easy Bulgur Pilaf with Vermicelli recipe. The combination of browned vermicelli and bulgur creates a delightful pilaf that can stand alone as a light meal or serve as an excellent side dish to your favorite mains. With the option to add sausage for a heartier touch or lentils for a nutritious boost, this versatile recipe allows for endless variations to suit your preferences. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering, Bulgur Pilaf with Vermicelli is sure to impress with its simple yet delightful taste. Enjoy this dish as a satisfying meal or a perfect accompaniment to your favorite entrees.
