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Turkish Bulgur Pilaf Recipe

Turkish Bulgur Pilaf Recipe (Bulgur Pilavı)

Authentic Turkish Bulgur Pilaf made with coarse bulgur, tomato paste, onions, peppers, butter, and broth. A fluffy, savory, everyday Turkish side dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course, side Dish
Cuisine Turkish
Servings 4 servings
Calories 310 kcal

Ingredients
  

Ingredients for Turkish Bulgur Pilaf Recipe

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion finely diced
  • 1 green pepper diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced, optional
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 large tomato grated or finely diced
  • 1½ cups coarse bulgur wheat
  • 3 cups hot chicken broth or vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika or Aleppo pepper optional
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

How to Make Bulgur Pilaf Recipe?

  • Dice the onion and green pepper. Mince the garlic if using, grate or finely chop the tomato, measure the bulgur, and heat the broth.
  • Heat butter and olive oil in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat.
  • Add the onion and cook for 5–6 minutes until soft and translucent.
  • Add the green pepper and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic during the final minute if using.
  • Stir in the tomato paste and cook for about 1 minute to remove its raw taste.
  • Add the grated tomato and cook for 4–5 minutes until the mixture becomes thick and glossy.
  • Add the coarse bulgur and stir for about 2 minutes until every grain is coated with the tomato mixture.
  • Pour in the hot broth. Add salt, black pepper, and paprika or Aleppo pepper if using. Stir once.
  • Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 15–18 minutes without stirring.
  • Check the bulgur. If still firm, add 2–3 tablespoons hot broth and cook for another 3–5 minutes.
  • Remove from heat and let the pilaf rest, covered, for 10 minutes.
  • Fluff gently with a fork, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm.

Notes

Use coarse bulgur, not fine bulgur.
Do not stir repeatedly while simmering.
Hot broth helps the bulgur cook evenly.
Resting the pilaf before serving improves texture.
Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.