Pilaf à la Grecque

Pilaf à la Grecque Recipe - Greek Ground Beef and Rice Dish

Region / culture: Greece | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Pilaf à la Grecque is a delicious and hearty dish that combines ground beef, vegetables, rice, and flavorful seasonings. This Greek-inspired recipe is perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal.

History

Pilaf, also known as pilav, is a dish that originated in the Middle East and Central Asia. It is a versatile dish that can be made with a variety of ingredients, including meat, vegetables, and spices. The Greek version of pilaf typically includes ground beef, carrots, onions, celery, and rice, creating a flavorful and filling meal.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) of lean ground beef
1.5 cups of thinly sliced carrots
1 cup of chopped onion
1 cup of sliced celery
3 cups of cooked rice
1 10 oz (283 g) package of frozen chopped spinach, thawed
1 x 14.5- to 16 oz (454 g) can of peeled whole tomatoes, chopped
1 tsp of salt
1 tsp of oregano
0.25 tsp of ground black pepper
0.25 tsp of garlic powder
lemon wedges (optional)
0.33 cup of grated parmesan cheese (optional)

How to prepare

In a large skillet, cook the meat, carrots, onion, and celery over medium heat until the meat is lightly browned.
Add the rice, spinach, tomatoes, salt, oregano, pepper, and garlic powder. Cover and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.
Remove from heat and serve with lemons and cheese, if desired.

Variations

Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef for a lighter version of the dish.
Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra vegetables and flavor.
Use quinoa or couscous instead of rice for a different texture and taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the meat and vegetables until they are lightly browned to enhance the flavor of the dish.

- Thaw the frozen spinach before adding it to the skillet to ensure even cooking.

- Adjust the seasonings to taste, adding more salt, pepper, or garlic powder as needed.

- Serve the pilaf with lemon wedges and grated parmesan cheese for a burst of freshness and tanginess.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Pilaf à la Grecque with a side of Greek salad, tzatziki sauce, or grilled pita bread for a complete and delicious meal.

Cooking Techniques

Make sure to cook the meat and vegetables evenly to ensure that they are tender and flavorful.

- Simmer the pilaf covered to allow the flavors to meld together and the rice to absorb the liquid.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use ground lamb or pork instead of ground beef for a different flavor profile.

- Replace the frozen spinach with fresh spinach or kale for a fresher taste.

Make Ahead Tips

Pilaf à la Grecque can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the pilaf in individual bowls or on a platter garnished with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Pilaf à la Grecque with a glass of red wine, such as a Greek Agiorgitiko or a Cabernet Sauvignon, for a perfect match.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Pilaf à la Grecque contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

The carbohydrates in this dish primarily come from the rice, vegetables, and tomatoes. Each serving contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The fats in this dish come from the lean ground beef and optional parmesan cheese. Each serving contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

The protein in this dish comes from the lean ground beef. Each serving contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium from the vegetables, spinach, and tomatoes.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (parmesan cheese) and gluten (from the rice). It may also contain soy if the ground beef is seasoned with soy sauce.

Summary

Pilaf à la Grecque is a balanced meal that provides a good source of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a nutritious and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet.

Summary

Pilaf à la Grecque is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines ground beef, vegetables, rice, and seasonings. This Greek-inspired recipe is easy to make and perfect for a comforting and delicious meal. Enjoy this hearty dish with lemon wedges and parmesan cheese for a burst of freshness and flavor.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her quaint little cottage by the sea in Greece. Maria was a wonderful cook, and I always looked forward to her delicious meals whenever I visited.

On that particular day, Maria had prepared a feast fit for a king. There was grilled lamb, fresh Greek salad, and a dish that caught my eye - Pilaf à la Grecque. I had never tasted anything like it before. The aroma of the spices and herbs filled the air, and my mouth watered in anticipation.

I asked Maria for the recipe, and she smiled warmly at me. She told me that she had learned it from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through generations. Maria graciously shared the recipe with me, and I eagerly took notes, determined to replicate the dish in my own kitchen back home.

When I returned to my own cozy kitchen, I gathered all the ingredients I needed to make the Pilaf à la Grecque. I could still remember the scent of the dish from Maria's kitchen, and I was determined to recreate it to perfection.

I started by sautéing onions and garlic in a large pot, just like Maria had shown me. The fragrant aroma filled the room, and I knew I was on the right track. Next, I added in the rice and toasted it until it was golden brown. The spices and herbs came next - cinnamon, cumin, mint, and parsley - all of which reminded me of the flavors of Greece.

As the rice simmered and absorbed all the flavors, I added in chopped tomatoes, peas, and a generous splash of lemon juice. The colors of the dish were vibrant and inviting, just like the Mediterranean landscape that had inspired it.

After a few more minutes of cooking, the Pilaf à la Grecque was ready. I fluffed the rice with a fork and scooped it onto a plate, garnishing it with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of feta cheese. The dish looked just like Maria's, and I couldn't wait to taste it.

I took a bite, and the flavors exploded in my mouth. The combination of spices and herbs was perfect, and the rice was fluffy and flavorful. I closed my eyes and savored each mouthful, feeling transported back to Maria's cottage by the sea.

Since that day, Pilaf à la Grecque has become a staple in my kitchen. I have made it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and quiet nights at home. Each time I prepare the dish, I am reminded of my dear friend Maria and the culinary traditions she shared with me.

I am grateful for the memories and experiences that have shaped my love for cooking. And I am thankful for the people like Maria who have inspired me to continue exploring new recipes and flavors. The Pilaf à la Grecque will always hold a special place in my heart, and I will continue to make it with love and gratitude for all the wonderful moments it has brought into my life.