Four Grain Pilaf

The Four-Grain Pilaf is a delightful and nutritious dish that combines an assortment of flavors, textures, and colors. This simple grain dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a perfect addition to any meal. You can experiment with various combinations of four grains that have similar cooking times to create your personalized version of this pilaf.

MAKES: 4 servings

TIME: 30 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil or butter
• 1 small red onion, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup quinoa
• 1/4 cup millet
• 1/4 cup whole wheat or regular couscous
• 1/4 cup fine-grind bulgur
• 2 1/2 to 3 cups chicken, beef, or vegetable stock or water
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a medium ovenproof pot or deep skillet with a lid, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add the chopped red onion and season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onion softens, which should take about 3 minutes.
2. Stir in the quinoa and ensure it’s coated with the oil. Toast the quinoa until it becomes fragrant, then repeat the toasting process with millet, couscous, and bulgur, one grain at a time, leaving the previous grains in the pot. The entire toasting process should not take more than 5 minutes.
3. Add 2 1/2 cups of chicken, beef, or vegetable stock to the pot, and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, cover the pot and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook undisturbed for approximately 10 minutes.
4. Check the grains for doneness. If they are almost cooked but there’s still excess liquid, increase the heat and allow the pilaf to boil until the liquid starts to evaporate. Then, cover the pot and turn off the heat. If the grains are almost done but the mixture is too dry, cover and cook for a few more minutes. If the grains are not yet cooked and the mixture is too dry, add an additional 1/2 cup of stock, cover, and cook for 5 to 10 more minutes.
5. Let the pilaf rest for 3 to 5 minutes. Then, use a fork to stir in the chopped parsley and fluff the grains. Taste the pilaf, adjust the seasoning as needed, and it’s ready to serve.

VARIATIONS:

• For a nutty flavor, add toasted nuts like almonds or pine nuts to the pilaf.
• Enhance the pilaf’s sweetness by adding dried fruits such as cranberries or apricots.
• Create a Mediterranean twist by incorporating chopped sun-dried tomatoes and feta cheese.
• Make it a protein-rich dish by mixing in cooked chickpeas, black beans, or diced tofu.

USES:

• The Four-Grain Pilaf is a versatile dish that complements various main courses. Serve it as a side dish alongside roasted or grilled meats, fish, or poultry. It’s also an excellent vegetarian option, offering a balanced and satisfying meal.

Enjoy the delightful flavors and textures of this Four-Grain Pilaf as it elevates your dining experience with its nutty, hearty, and wholesome taste. Whether served as a side or as a standalone dish, this pilaf is sure to impress your family and guests with its simplicity and elegance.