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Savory Bulgur Wheat Pilaf with Caramelized Onions

savory bulgur wheat pilaf - featured image
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A hearty, flavorful pilaf featuring nutty bulgur wheat and sweet caramelized onions, finished with fresh herbs and a splash of lemon. This easy side dish is perfect for weeknights, gatherings, or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup bulgur wheat (medium or coarse)
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, or use vegan butter)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
  • Optional mix-ins: chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds), raisins or dried cranberries, crumbled feta or goat cheese

Instructions

  1. Peel and thinly slice the onions (about 1/4 inch thick). Mince the garlic and chop the parsley. Measure out all other ingredients.
  2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring every few minutes, until onions turn deep golden brown and sweet-smelling, about 15-18 minutes. If onions start sticking, splash in 1-2 tablespoons of broth or water and scrape up any browned bits.
  3. Stir in minced garlic, black pepper, and any additional spices (such as cumin or paprika, if desired). Cook just until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  4. Add bulgur wheat to the skillet with onions and garlic. Stir well and cook for 2 minutes, letting the grains absorb the flavors. Bulgur should look slightly glossy and smell nutty.
  5. Pour in 2 cups of warm vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle simmer, then cover with a lid. Reduce heat to low and cook until bulgur is tender and liquid is absorbed, about 12-15 minutes. Check halfway and add a splash more broth if needed.
  6. Remove from heat and let sit (covered) for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork to separate the grains. Stir in chopped parsley and lemon juice, if using. Add any optional mix-ins and adjust salt to taste.
  7. Spoon into a serving bowl, garnish with extra parsley or a sprinkle of cracked pepper. Serve warm.

Notes

For vegan, use olive oil only and skip butter. For gluten-free, substitute bulgur with quinoa or millet and adjust cooking time. Toasting the bulgur before simmering adds nutty flavor. Caramelize onions slowly for best results. Optional mix-ins like nuts, dried fruit, or cheese add variety. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 1 month.

Nutrition

Keywords: bulgur pilaf, caramelized onions, vegetarian side dish, easy pilaf, healthy grains, Mediterranean, weeknight recipe, meal prep, comfort food

Find it online: https://hungermind.com/savory-bulgur-wheat-pilaf-recipe-easy-caramelized-onion-side/