Discover the heartwarming flavors of Turkey with Tavuk Pilav, a traditional chicken pilaf that's a staple in Turkish households. This dish combines tender, flavorful chicken with fragrant, fluffy rice, all seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices. It's a simple yet satisfying meal that brings comfort and warmth to any dining table.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 4
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
Nutritional Profile (per serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
Ingredients
- Chicken breast, cubed: 500g (1.1 pounds or 17.6 ounces)
- Long-grain rice: 250g (8.8 ounces)
- Chicken broth: 500ml (2 cups)
- Onion, finely chopped: 100g (3.5 ounces)
- Carrot, diced: 50g (1.76 ounces)
- Peas: 100g (3.5 ounces)
- Garlic cloves, minced: 2 (about 10g)
- Olive oil: 30ml (2 tablespoons)
- Bay leaf: 1
- Cumin: 5g (1 teaspoon)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
- Cook Chicken: Add chicken and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and cumin.
- Add Rice: Stir in rice, ensuring it's well coated with the aromatics.
- Add Broth and Vegetables: Pour in chicken broth, add bay leaf, carrots, and peas.
- Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- Serve: Fluff with a fork, remove the bay leaf, and garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Rinse the Rice: Rinse rice under cold water to remove excess starch for fluffier pilaf.
- Perfect Rice to Liquid Ratio: Ensure the correct ratio of rice to broth for the best texture.
- Gentle Simmer: Keep the heat low and simmer gently to prevent the rice from sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of rice?
Long-grain rice like Basmati works best for pilaf.
How to store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Can I add other vegetables?
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or corn.