Anatolian Bulgur with Nuts and Dates Recipe

This healthy dish can be made with rice or bulgur wheat, and includes a combination of vegetables, dried fruits and nuts. Serve it with a dollop of thick, creamy yogurt and some melted butter as a substantial lunch dish.

 

Ingredients

  • 25 gram butter

  • 2 medium carrots, cut into matchsticks

  • 75 gram blanched almonds

  • 3 tbsp pine nuts

  • 2 tbsp pistachio nuts, chopped

  • 175 gram soft dried dates, chopped

  • a handful of fresh coriander, chopped, to serve

  • thick and creamy natural yogurt, to serve

  • 350 gram coarse-grain bulgur wheat, rinsed and drained

  • salt to taste

  • 2 tbsp ghee or butter, melted (optional)

 

Method

  • Put the bulgur into a bowl, pour over enough boiling water to cover it by 1in, and give it a quick stir. cover the bowl and leave the bulgur to steam for about 25 minutes, until it has soaked up the water and doubled in volume.

  • Meanwhile, melt the butter in a wide, heavy pan, add the carrots and fry for 10 minutes, until tender and golden. Toss in the nuts and cook for a further minute, or until they give off a nutty aroma and begin to color.

  • Add the dated and, if they look dry, pour in 15-30ml water. Tip the bulgur into the pan and toss until everything is mixed well together. Turn off the heat, cover the pan with a dish towel and lid, and leave to steam for 5-10 minutes.

  • To serve, stir the coriander through the bulgur, and pour over the ghee or butter, if you like. Hand round yogurt in a small bowl. Serves 4-6.

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