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Turkish Firik Pilavı (Smoked Bulgur Pilaf)

Turkish Firik Pilavı (Smoked Bulgur Pilaf)

​Firik Pilavı is a traditional Turkish dish featuring a smoky, nutty flavour from roasted green wheat (firik) combined with bulgur, sautéed onions, and spices. ​
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Course Side Dishes
Cuisine Turkish
Servings 4
Calories 324 kcal

Equipment

  • Large saucepan or Dutch oven​
  • Sieve for rinsing grains​
  • Wooden spoon for stirring​

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup firik bulgur smoked cracked wheat
  • 1/2 cup regular bulgur coarse or medium grind
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 large onion finely chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper chopped
  • 1 tomato finely chopped
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • To begin, place a large heavy bottomed pot or skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil and butter. Let the butter melt, blending with the olive oil to create a rich base for the pilaf. The combination of fats enhances the flavour and prevents the butter from burning.
  • Add the finely chopped onion to the pot. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent, stirring occasionally to avoid browning. This step builds a sweet and savoury base for the pilaf.
  • Add the chopped green bell pepper to the onions, stirring well. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the pepper softens, bringing a subtle flavour and colour to the dish. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
  • Stir in the chopped tomato, cumin, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Cook for about 5 minutes, letting the tomato break down slightly to release its juices. The spices should meld with the vegetables, creating a fragrant, spiced base.
  • Add both the firik bulgur and regular bulgur to the pot. Stir the mixture for 2-3 minutes, allowing the grains to toast slightly. This step enhances the smoky flavour of the firik and adds depth to the pilaf.
  • Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid, allowing the pilaf to simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the bulgur is tender.
  • After 15 minutes, check the texture of the bulgur. If it is tender and the liquid is absorbed, remove the pot from heat. Let the pilaf rest, covered, for 5 minutes. This resting time helps the flavours meld and the grains to settle.
  • Fluff the pilaf with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve the firik pilaf warm as a side or main dish, accompanied by yogurt or a fresh salad. For an added touch, drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top for extra richness.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Calories: 324kcalCarbohydrates: 47gProtein: 8gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 648mgPotassium: 411mgFiber: 11gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1180IUVitamin C: 35mgCalcium: 41mgIron: 2mg
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