Universal Pilaf Recipe

(Mix and match with whatever you have!)

Grain: One cup of uncooked brown or white rice, bulgur, or couscous

Fat: Two Tbsp. olive oil, vegetable oil, or butter

Base vegetable: 2-3 cloves garlic, minced, plus one of the following, chopped: one small onion, three shallots, or one small leek (white part only)

Liquid: 2 cups vegetable broth, chicken broth, water, or cooking water from boiled vegetables

Meat or protein: ¾ c. chopped cooked chicken, cooked beans, fish, hamburger, or cubed pork or beef

Additional vegetable: ½ cup peas, chopped carrots, frozen corn, chopped green pepper, celery, and/or other favorite vegetable

Seasoning: salt, pepper, and whatever else works with your chosen ingredients



Directions: Heat fat in large skillet. Add base vegetables and cook until golden and translucent. Add protein. Add grain and fry for a minute or so to coat with the fat. Add liquid and bring to a boil. Add remaining vegetables, season, stir, return to a boil, and lower heat so it just simmers; cover. Check often. If using whole grains, may take up t o 40 minutes to cook; white rice will only take about 15 minutes. Don’t stir too much. When liquid is completely absorbed, it is done. Stir, season to taste, and serve.
(courtesy Rebecca Navokovich)