Bulgur Hash

Bulgur Hash Recipe from Turkey | Vegetarian Food

Region / culture: Turkey | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Bulgur hash is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a hearty breakfast or a satisfying dinner. This recipe combines the nutty flavor of bulgur with the earthy taste of potatoes and the savory goodness of onions and garlic. With a touch of paprika and tamari, this dish is bursting with flavor and is sure to become a favorite in your household.

History

Bulgur hash is a modern twist on traditional hash recipes that have been enjoyed for centuries. Originally, hash was a way to use up leftovers by chopping them up and frying them together in a skillet. This version of hash uses bulgur, a whole grain that is popular in Middle Eastern cuisine, as the base instead of meat. The result is a hearty and satisfying dish that is perfect for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.

Ingredients

1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 stalk celery, finely chopped
1 medium clove garlic, minced
1 tsp paprika
2 cups peeled, diced all-purpose potatoes (0.5 inch pieces)
1 cup uncooked bulgur (medium grind)
1.5 tsp soy sauce or tamari
2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
0.5 tsp salt
4 tsp olive oil

How to prepare

In a large nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and celery and cook, stirring often, until the onion is softened, about 7 minutes. Stir in garlic and paprika, then add potatoes and bulgur, stirring until evenly coated.
Stir soy sauce into broth and add it to the potato mixture along with salt. Season with freshly ground pepper to taste. Increase the heat to high and bring it to a boil. Cover, reduce the heat to low, and simmer without lifting the lid until the potatoes are tender, about 10 minutes.
Remove from heat and gently fluff the hash with a fork. Let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Serve hot.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
Stir in a handful of fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro before serving.
Top the hash with a fried or poached egg for a protein boost.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to chop your vegetables finely so that they cook evenly and blend well with the bulgur.

- Use low-sodium vegetable broth to control the salt content of the dish.

- Fluff the hash with a fork after cooking to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed.

- Serve the hash hot for the best taste and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve bulgur hash with a side of fresh fruit or a green salad for a complete and balanced meal. It also pairs well with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making perfect bulgur hash is to cook the vegetables until they are soft and the bulgur is tender. Be sure to simmer the mixture covered to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have bulgur on hand, you can substitute quinoa or brown rice for a similar texture and taste. You can also use different vegetables such as carrots or zucchini in place of the celery.

Make Ahead Tips

Bulgur hash can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the bulgur hash with a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a beautiful presentation. Serve it in individual bowls or on a platter for a family-style meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Bulgur hash pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. It also goes well with a glass of white wine or a cold beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of bulgur hash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of bulgur hash contains approximately 300 calories. This makes it a satisfying and filling meal that won't weigh you down.

Carbohydrates

One serving of bulgur hash contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and can help to fuel your day.

Fats

Each serving of bulgur hash contains about 8 grams of fat. The olive oil in this recipe provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that can help to lower cholesterol levels.

Proteins

This dish is a good source of protein, with each serving containing around 8 grams. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Vitamins and minerals

Bulgur hash is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and iron. These nutrients are important for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe is free of common allergens such as dairy, eggs, and nuts. However, if you have a gluten allergy, be sure to use certified gluten-free bulgur.

Summary

Bulgur hash is a nutritious and delicious dish that is high in carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in essential vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice for any meal.

Summary

Bulgur hash is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for any meal of the day. With a hearty combination of bulgur, potatoes, and vegetables, this dish is sure to satisfy your hunger and your taste buds. Enjoy it on its own or paired with your favorite protein for a complete and balanced meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a rainy day, and I was browsing through an old cookbook that I had inherited from my great-grandmother. As I flipped through the pages, a simple yet delicious-sounding recipe caught my eye: Bulgur Hash.

I had never heard of Bulgur Hash before, but the combination of bulgur, vegetables, and spices seemed like a comforting and hearty meal that would be perfect for a cold, rainy day. I decided to give it a try, and as I gathered the ingredients and started cooking, I couldn't help but think about the journey that had led me to this moment.

Growing up, I had always loved watching my grandmother cook. She had a magical way of turning simple ingredients into delicious meals that brought our family together around the dinner table. I would often sit at her feet, watching her chop vegetables, stir pots, and sprinkle spices into dishes with a sense of wonder and admiration.

As I got older, I began to experiment with cooking on my own. I tried out new recipes, learned different techniques, and made countless mistakes along the way. But through it all, I always remembered the joy and love that my grandmother infused into her cooking, and I tried to capture that same spirit in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I had collected recipes from all sorts of sources. Some came from cookbooks, others from friends or family members, and some I had picked up along my travels. Each recipe held a special place in my heart, and I cherished the memories and experiences that were attached to them.

But there was something different about the Bulgur Hash recipe. It felt like a hidden gem, waiting to be discovered and shared with the world. As I cooked, the aromas of cumin, coriander, and garlic filled the air, and I felt a sense of excitement and anticipation building inside me.

Finally, the Bulgur Hash was ready. I plated it up and took a bite, savoring the flavors and textures that danced on my taste buds. It was everything I had hoped for and more – warm, comforting, and utterly delicious.

From that day on, Bulgur Hash became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and even just for myself on quiet nights at home. Each time I cooked it, I remembered the moment I had discovered the recipe and felt grateful for the journey that had led me to that point.

As the years went by, I continued to hone my skills in the kitchen, learning new recipes and techniques, and passing on my knowledge to the next generation. I taught my children and grandchildren how to cook, sharing with them the joy and love that I had inherited from my own grandmother.

And through it all, Bulgur Hash remained a constant presence in my life. It was a reminder of the magic of cooking, the power of tradition, and the beauty of sharing a meal with the ones we love.

So here I am now, sitting in my kitchen, surrounded by the scents and sounds of cooking. The rain is pattering against the windows, and I am about to make a batch of Bulgur Hash for dinner. As I chop vegetables, stir pots, and sprinkle spices into the dish, I can't help but smile, knowing that this recipe – and the journey that brought it to me – will always hold a special place in my heart. And as I sit down to enjoy the meal with my family, I am filled with gratitude for the love, memories, and traditions that have shaped me into the cook – and the person – that I am today.