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Bulgur Pilaf

Supreme Simple Bulgur Pilaf

There’s a quiet kind of comfort in recipes that ask so little from you yet give so much in return, and this bulgur pilaf is exactly that kind of dish. It’s the kind of recipe you make on a calm afternoon or a busy evening, knowing it will always turn out soft, fragrant, and deeply satisfying. There’s no complicated technique here, no layers of steps to memorize; just the simple rhythm of softening an onion, stirring in bulgur wheat, and letting the grains soak up warm, seasoned stock until they turn tender and fluffy.
What surprises people most is how flavorful it becomes with so few ingredients. A single bay leaf infuses the pot with quiet herbal warmth, while the onions melt into sweetness that carries through every bite. Just before serving, a scattering of chopped parsley lifts the entire dish with freshness. It’s balanced, gentle, and incredibly grounding; the kind of food your body instantly understands.
It’s also a dish that fits beautifully into mindful eating. Bulgar wheat is light on the stomach yet filling; it digests smoothly and keeps your energy steady. For anyone trying to eat cleaner or follow a health-focused plan, it brings both nourishment and comfort. Paired with vegetables, roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even enjoyed on its own, this pilaf embodies the idea that you can Feast Big; Stay Fit. A generous bowl doesn’t weigh you down; it simply feels good.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner Accompaniment, Lunch Bowl, Lunch Bowl Component, Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: Armenian, Fusion, Fusion Home-Style Cooking, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, Turkish
Calories: 222kcal

Ingredients
 

  • 1/2 cup Onion Finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil extra virgin
  • 6 oz Bulgur Wheat dry
  • 1 1/2 cup Vegetable Stock
  • 1 pc Bay Leaf
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley Finely Chopped
  • 1 tsp Salt or as per taste
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper or as per taste
Nutrition
Nutrition Facts
Supreme Simple Bulgur Pilaf
Amount per Serving
Calories
222
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
8
g
12
%
Saturated Fat
 
1
g
6
%
Polyunsaturated Fat
 
1
g
Monounsaturated Fat
 
5
g
Sodium
 
943
mg
41
%
Potassium
 
219
mg
6
%
Carbohydrates
 
36
g
12
%
Fiber
 
8
g
33
%
Sugar
 
2
g
2
%
Protein
 
6
g
12
%
Vitamin A
 
377
IU
8
%
Vitamin C
 
4
mg
5
%
Calcium
 
26
mg
3
%
Iron
 
1
mg
6
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Cooking Intructions
 

  1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
    2 tbsp Olive Oil
  2. Add ½ cup finely chopped onion.
    1/2 cup Onion
  3. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and lightly translucent.
  4. Add 1 cup bulgur wheat to the pan.
    6 oz Bulgur Wheat
  5. Stir for 1 minute to coat the grains and enhance aroma.
  6. Pour in 1½ cups chicken or vegetable stock.
    1 1/2 cup Vegetable Stock
  7. Add 1 bay leaf.
    1 pc Bay Leaf
  8. Season lightly with salt and pepper (adjust based on stock).
    1 tsp Salt, 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
  9. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  10. Cover tightly with a lid.
  11. Let it steam on low heat for 12–15 minutes, or until all liquid is absorbed.
  12. Remove the bay leaf.
  13. Fluff the bulgur with a fork.
  14. Stir in 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley.
    2 tbsp Fresh Parsley
  15. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Notes

1️⃣ Choose the Right Bulgar Type

  • This recipe works perfectly with medium-grain bulgar (Type #2).
  • If using fine bulgar (#1), reduce cooking time to 7–10 minutes.
  • If using coarse bulgar (#3 or #4), increase liquid to 2 cups and cook for 18–20 minutes.

2️⃣ Healthier Fat Options

  • Alternatively you can use avocado oil for a heart-friendly version.
  • For ultra-low-fat diets, sauté onions in 2–3 tbsp stock instead of oil or butter.

3️⃣ Flavor Elevations

  • Add 1 clove minced garlic during onion sautéing for deeper aroma.
  • Stir in ½ tsp cumin or ¼ tsp cinnamon for a Middle Eastern twist.
  • Add 1 tbsp lemon juice at the end for brightness and digestion support.

4️⃣ Make It More Balanced

  • Mix in steamed vegetables (peas, carrots, spinach) to increase fiber and vitamins.
  • Add chickpeas or grilled chicken for a protein-packed meal bowl.

5️⃣ Stock Swaps

  • Use vegetable stock for vegan.
  • Use low-sodium stock for diabetic, kidney, or heart-friendly diets.

6️⃣ Perfect Texture Tips

  • Don’t stir while steaming — this keeps the pilaf fluffy, not mushy.
  • After cooking, let it sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing.

7️⃣ Storage & Meal Prep

  • Keeps 3–4 days in the fridge in an airtight container.
  • Reheat with 1–2 tbsp water or stock to revive fluffiness.
  • Freezes well for up to 1 month — thaw overnight in the fridge.

8️⃣ Serving Suggestions

  • Ideal with roasted chicken, baked fish, stir-fried vegetables, or Mediterranean bowls.
  • Works beautifully as a base for Salmon Bowls, Buddha Bowls, Wraps, or Grain Salads.
 

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