Meyhane Pilavı Recipe
Meyhane Pilavı, one of the most beloved dishes in Turkish cuisine, is said to have gotten its name from the fact that it was frequently consumed in old taverns, known as "meyhane." While "meyane" typically refers to a mixture of flour and fat used to thicken soups or dishes, it doesn’t seem to fit the meaning of this pilaf. However, if there’s another interpretation of the word, I’m not familiar with it.
This dish is known for being both flavorful and filling. Thanks to the nutritious qualities of bulgur and the addition of vegetables, it’s a delicious and healthy option that deserves a spot on your table. With its rich flavors and ease of preparation, it pairs wonderfully with yogurt or pickles and can serve as a main course or a fantastic side dish.
In Turkish cuisine, there are many varieties of bulgur pilaf. For example, there are versions with vegetables like carrot bulgur pilaf or green bean bulgur pilaf, as well as recipes influenced by other cultures, such as bulgur pilaf with green lentils. Among these variations, Meyhane Pilavı stands out with its unique characteristics.
Characteristics of Meyhane Pilavı
- The most notable feature is that the bulgur should be coarse and large-grained.
- The pilaf should remain fluffy and slightly moist.
- The combination of tomato and pepper paste adds a rich depth of flavor. Using spicy pepper paste also gives the dish an additional layer of taste.
Tips for the Perfect Meyhane Pilavı
- Sautéing the onion well until it softens is crucial for enhancing the flavor, but be careful not to overcook and burn it.
- Using both tomato and pepper paste adds a distinct aroma and color to the pilaf.
- Avoid cooking the pilaf on very low heat. To keep the bulgur grains separate and not mushy, cook on medium heat.
- If you enjoy spicy food, using hot pepper paste will elevate the taste of the pilaf. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can opt for sweet pepper paste instead.
Meyhane Pilavı is a strong candidate to become a staple in your kitchen, with its ease of preparation and wonderful taste. The nutritional value of bulgur combined with the rich vegetable ingredients offers a healthy option, while the mild spiciness from the pepper paste leaves a memorable impression.
Enjoy the recipe...
Meyhane Pilavı Recipe with Video
Ingredients
- 1 cup of coarse bulgur,
- 1 onion,
- 1 red pepper,
- 1 green pepper,
- 1 tomato,
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil,
- 1/2 tablespoon of tomato paste,
- 1/2 tablespoon of pepper paste,
- 2 cups of boiling water,
- Salt to taste.
Preparation
- Heat the olive oil in a pot and sauté the chopped onion until softened,
- Add the tomato and pepper pastes, and sauté until fragrant,
- Add the chopped green and red peppers, and garlic, and sauté until soft,
- Grate the tomato and cook until its juice is absorbed,
- Add the water and rinsed bulgur, and stir well,
- Add salt, cover, and cook on low-medium heat until the water is absorbed and the bulgur is tender.
Enjoy your meal!