Rice > Turkey

Kalburabastı Pilaf Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup of rice
- 2 cups of water
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of coriander
- 1 cup of kalburabastı (Turkish cheese curds)

Special equipment needed:
- Large pot with lid
- Wooden spoon

Step-by-step instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in cold water and drain.
2. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.
4. Add the rice and stir until coated with the butter and onion mixture.
5. Add the water, salt, black pepper, paprika, cumin, and coriander to the pot.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.
7. Cook the rice for 15 minutes or until the water has been absorbed and the rice is tender.
8. Add the kalburabastı to the pot and stir gently until the cheese has melted and mixed with the rice.
9. Serve hot.


Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat for sautéing the onion, low heat for cooking the rice.
Serving size:
This recipe serves 4 people.

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 320
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 43g
Protein: 9g
Sodium: 570mg

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Kalburabastı can be substituted with feta cheese or any other salty cheese.

Variations:
- Add chopped vegetables such as carrots, peas, or bell peppers to the pilaf for a more colorful and nutritious dish.
- Use brown rice instead of white rice for a healthier option.

Tips and tricks:
- Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch and prevent the rice from becoming sticky.
- Use a wooden spoon to stir the rice to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Let the rice rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld together.

Storage instructions:
Leftover pilaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
To reheat the pilaf, place it in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the pilaf in a large bowl or on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro.

Garnishes:
Fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro.

Pairings:
This pilaf pairs well with grilled meats or roasted vegetables.

Suggested side dishes:
- Cucumber and tomato salad
- Roasted eggplant
- Grilled zucchini

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the rice is still undercooked after the water has been absorbed, add a little more water and continue cooking until the rice is tender.
- If the rice is too mushy, reduce the amount of water used in the recipe.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the rice and cheese to a safe temperature of 165°F to prevent foodborne illness.

Food history:
Kalburabastı is a traditional Turkish cheese made from sheep's milk. It is similar to feta cheese but has a firmer texture.

Flavor profiles:
This pilaf has a savory and slightly spicy flavor from the spices used in the recipe. The kalburabastı adds a salty and tangy flavor to the dish.

Serving suggestions:
Serve this pilaf as a main course or as a side dish at a family gathering or dinner party.

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Region: Turkish

Taste: Savory, Tangy, Spicy, Aromatic