Best Armenian Pilaf Recipes

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ARMENIAN RICE PILAF WITH RAISINS AND ALMONDS



Armenian Rice Pilaf With Raisins and Almonds image

This traditional Armenian rice pilaf has been passed down through the generations of Christine Vartanian Datian's family. Peas, parsley and allspice have been added to the original for extra flavor and color.

Provided by Tara Parker-Pope

Time 45m

Yield Serves 4-6

Number Of Ingredients 11

5-6 tablespoons butter
4-5 ounces dried vermicelli or egg noodles
2 cups long-grain white rice
1 quart fat-skimmed vegetable, chicken or turkey broth
1 teaspoon sea salt and 1/2 teaspoon white or black pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
1/2 cup coarsely chopped almonds
1/2 cup coarsely chopped golden or black raisins
1/2 cup frozen petite peas (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

Steps:

  • In a 5- to 6-quart pan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons butter. Break or crush the vermicelli into 1-inch lengths. Add the pasta and rice to the butter and stir often until golden, about 5-8 minutes, being careful not to burn the vermicelli.
  • Add the broth, allspice and salt and pepper. Bring to a full boil over high heat, then cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer until rice is tender to bite, about 20 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, in a sauté pan over medium heat, melt remaining 1 or 2 tablespoons butter. Add the almonds and stir often until golden, about 5 minutes. Add the raisins and stir until they puff, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
  • Stir peas if using, parsley and lemon juice into rice. Cover and simmer until peas are hot, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Pour pilaf into a serving bowl or on a platter and sprinkle with the raisin and nut mixture over the top. (Diced dried dates, figs, apricots or chopped walnuts may also be used in this topping.)

Nutrition Facts : @context http, Calories 573, UnsaturatedFat 10 grams, Carbohydrate 85 grams, Fat 20 grams, Fiber 3 grams, Protein 14 grams, SaturatedFat 8 grams, Sodium 551 milligrams, Sugar 11 grams, TransFat 0 grams

ARMENIAN RICE PILAF



Armenian Rice Pilaf image

This is a staple of Armenian homes and is always a favorite with everyone. Very easy to prepare and delicious with any meal, especially poultry. I serve this rice with breaded, baked chicken quarters.

Provided by 5lilblessings

Categories     Side Dish     Rice Side Dish Recipes     Pilaf

Time 35m

Yield 6

Number Of Ingredients 5

½ cup butter
1 ½ cups uncooked fine egg noodles
3 cups uncooked long grain white rice
5 (14.5 ounce) cans chicken broth
4 cubes chicken bouillon

Steps:

  • Melt butter in large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the egg noodles and stir until they begin to brown, being careful not to burn the butter. Stir in the rice. Continue stirring until rice is coated with butter.
  • Pour in the chicken broth and add the bouillon cubes. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low and cover tightly. Cook without uncovering pot until all the liquid has been absorbed, about 20 minutes.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 535.4 calories, Carbohydrate 84.9 g, Cholesterol 48 mg, Fat 16.8 g, Fiber 1.4 g, Protein 9.2 g, SaturatedFat 10 g, Sodium 1976.1 mg, Sugar 0.2 g

ARMENIAN PILAF



Armenian Pilaf image

"My grandfather was born in Armenia in the mid-1800's" Susan Lederer relates from her home in Fallon, Nevada. "This pilaf recipe is adapted from one he brought to this country. At our house, it's a standard with shish kabobs and chicken dishes.

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Side Dishes

Time 30m

Yield 6 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 8

1 medium onion, chopped
1/2 cup bulgur
1/2 cup uncooked long grain rice
1/2 cup uncooked broken vermicelli (1-inch pieces)
2 tablespoons butter
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) beef broth
1/3 cup water
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano

Steps:

  • In a large nonstick skillet, saute the onion, bulgur, rice and vermicelli in butter for 6-7 minutes or until golden brown. Add the broth, water and oregano; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender. Remove from the heat; let stand for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

Nutrition Facts :

AUNTIE'S ARMENIAN RICE PILAF



Auntie's Armenian Rice Pilaf image

Being of Armenian descent, I was raised on foods from that region of the world, and pilaf was one on which the children in my family cut their teeth. I never even knew rice was white until I was 17 years old as we always ate pilaf. My brothers and I had no grandmother to teach us, but we did have our great-aunt, our grandfather's sister, who filled that role, and passed-down the recipes from our ancestors to us, and now I prepare them for my own children. This pilaf recipe is it: just pilaf. Nothing fancy, no mushrooms, nor shallots or onions or pine nuts. It was our staple. We ate it with stroganoffs poured over the top, with grilled burgers on Saturday afternoons in the long, hot Summers in Long Island and then Southern California, with my mother's wonderful roasts on Sunday nights. It was the perfect side with Shish Kebob on Christmas day, and alongside our Thanksgiving turkey. This is the recipe for pilaf as Auntie taught us.

Provided by Rosie Posie 88

Categories     Medium Grain Rice

Time 35m

Yield 4 cups, 6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 6

1/4 cup butter
1/2 cup vermicelli
1 cup rice
2 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth, preferably homemade, heated till boiling
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground pepper

Steps:

  • In 2-qt. heavy saucepan with tight-fitting lid, melt butter over medium heat until foam subsides.
  • Add vermicelli noodles and saute until dark and reddish in color.
  • Stir in rice and saute in butter until rice is fragrant and nutty in aroma.
  • Raise heat to medium-high; pour in boiling chicken broth and stir.
  • Add salt and pepper, tasting a bit of the broth to ensure desired seasoning.
  • Cover and bring to a boil.
  • Once boiling, reduce heat to keep broth at a simmer and cook for exactly 20 minutes.
  • After 20 minutes, remove cover and taste a few grains of rice for doneness. If still a bit hard, replace cover and cook for two additional minutes.
  • When rice is tender, remove pot from heat. Place a paper napkin directly on top of the pilaf and replace cover; let sit undisturbed for 5 minutes.
  • After rest-time has elapsed, remove cover, discard the paper napkin, and stir the pilaf before serving.

GRANDMA'S ARMENIAN RICE PILAF



Grandma's Armenian Rice Pilaf image

This recipe is my grandmother's. She came from Armenia and it has been in our family for years. We all still make it and it is so easy.

Provided by Michele

Categories     Side Dish     Rice Side Dish Recipes     Pilaf

Time 43m

Yield 4

Number Of Ingredients 5

1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
3 ½ cups chicken broth
¼ cup butter
½ cup crushed Italian vermicelli (very thin noodles)
salt and ground black pepper to taste

Steps:

  • Soak rice in a bowl of water for 10 minutes. Drain.
  • Bring chicken broth to a boil in a large saucepan.
  • Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add vermicelli; cook and stir until brown, 2 to 3 minutes. Add rice; cook and stir until combined, about 1 minute. Pour into boiling broth. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, until rice is tender, about 20 minutes.
  • Season rice with salt and pepper; fluff with a fork.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 415.1 calories, Carbohydrate 65.9 g, Cholesterol 34.9 mg, Fat 12.7 g, Fiber 1.3 g, Protein 7.7 g, SaturatedFat 7.5 g, Sodium 964.6 mg, Sugar 1.4 g

ARMENIAN PILAF



Armenian Pilaf image

This is a recipe that I have been making since I was a teenager. My Step-Father was Armenian, and we ate this pilaf often, with our evening meal. It has a great buttery flavor, and can be made with either brown rice or long grain, white rice. It's YUMMY either way. I learned to make it with just butter. However, using a combination of oil and butter, helps to keep smoking and burning to a minimum, while still imparting the great buttery taste. I have also made it with just olive oil, and also with a combination of butter and olive oil. Of course, the flavor is slightly different. I think it has the best flavor, when made with just 3 Tbsp of butter (no oil), but it is healthier with the butter/oil combination, and healthiest with 2 Tbsp oil and no butter.

Provided by Devonviolet

Categories     White Rice

Time 40m

Yield 3 cups, 6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 6

1 1/2 cups long grain white rice
2 ounces vermicelli (May substitute Angel Hair Pasta)
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon safflower oil (Olive oil may be used, but may taste slightly different)
3 cups organic chicken broth (unsalted)
1/2 teaspoon salt

Steps:

  • Put the butter and oil in a medium sauce pan. Break Vermicelli into two inch pieces and place in butter.
  • Heat the butter, oil and Vermicelli, on medium heat, stirring constantly, until the Vermicelli is golden brown. During this time, the butter and oil will foam. This is fine, just keep stirring until all of the Vermicelli is golden brown.
  • Pour the chicken broth into the pan, which will stop the frying of the Vermicelli.
  • Add rice, and continue to heat, until the broth starts to boil.
  • Cover the pan, with a tightly fitting lid, lower heat, to lowest temp, and allow to simmer for 20 minutes, without stirring or lifting the lid.
  • After 20 minutes, stir rice mixture, and recover. Allow to sit another 10-15 minutes. When the liquid is fully absorbed, it is ready to serve.

ARMENIAN PILAF



Armenian Pilaf image

Armenian rice pilaf is a perfect rice side dish for any number of dishes.

Provided by Martha Stewart

Categories     Food & Cooking     Ingredients     Pasta and Grains     Rice Recipes

Number Of Ingredients 5

1/3 cup broken pieces egg vermicelli
1 1/2 ounces (3 tablespoons) unsalted butter
3 cups basmati or other long-grain white rice
4 1/2 cups homemade or store-bought low-sodium chicken stock
2 1/4 teaspoons coarse salt

Steps:

  • Toast pasta in a medium saucepan over medium heat until deep golden brown, about 4 minutes. Add butter, and let melt. Add rice, and stir in stock and salt. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and let simmer, covered, until liquid has been absorbed and rice is tender, about 16 minutes. Let stand, covered, for 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

ARMENIAN RICE PILAF WITH MUSHROOMS



Armenian Rice Pilaf with Mushrooms image

I got this from an Armenian girl who works in my bank. If you substitute margarine for the butter you have a good vegan meal.

Provided by Mirj2338

Categories     Long Grain Rice

Time 40m

Yield 4 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 11

1/4 cup butter
1 medium onion, minced
1 cup mushroom, thickly sliced
1 small green pepper
1 medium tomatoes, peeled,seeded and chopped
1 clove garlic, crushed
1 cup basmati rice, uncooked
1/4 teaspoon turmeric or 1/4 teaspoon saffron
1 3/4 cups vegetable broth or 1 3/4 cups stock
salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley, , for garnish (optional)

Steps:

  • In a heavy saucepan or casserole, melt the butter over moderate heat.
  • Add the onion, mushrooms and sliced green pepper and cook gently until they begin to soften.
  • Stir in the tomato together with the garlic and cook for 2 minutes.
  • Now add the rice and the turmeric or powdered saffron, and cook 2 minutes until grains are thoroughly coated with butter but not browned, stirring constantly.
  • Pour in the broth (stock), sprinkle with salt and bring to a boil, stirring.
  • Reduce the heat to low.
  • Cover and simmer for approximately 20 minutes or until all the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender but still firm to the bite-- not mushy.
  • Gently fluff the rice with a fork.
  • Spoon onto a heated serving platter, being careful not to mash it, and sprinkle with chopped parsley.

ARMENIAN RICE PILAF



Armenian Rice Pilaf image

Very simple but delicious rice dish. You can add currants or nuts to make it fancy. If using canned chicken broth, use one can plus water to make the two cups.

Provided by manushag

Categories     Long Grain Rice

Time 25m

Yield 4 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 7

1 cup Uncle Ben's converted brand rice
2 tablespoons orzo pasta or 2 tablespoons skinny noodles
1 teaspoon salt
black pepper
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter

Steps:

  • Heat oil and brown orzo.
  • Add rice and stir, coating rice with oil so grains will be fluffy when cooked.
  • Add chicken broth, salt and pepper. Broth should taste a little salty.
  • Cover and cook slowly for 20 minutes or until all broth is absorbed. Add currants and nuts if desired.
  • Add butter and stir.

ARMENIAN RICE PILAF



Armenian Rice Pilaf image

From a dear Armenian friend. I have made this for 25 years. It is so easy and always comes out perfect. This to me is the true pilaf.

Provided by MizzNezz

Categories     Lunch/Snacks

Time 22m

Yield 6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 4

4 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup vermicelli, broken in little pieces
3/4 cup rice
1 1/2 cups chicken broth

Steps:

  • Heat butter in 2qt saucepan until frothy.
  • Add vermicelli; saute until golden, dont burn.
  • Add rice, stir.
  • Add chicken broth, stir to mix.
  • Cover and cook for 17 minutes on simmer.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 165.4, Fat 8.2, SaturatedFat 5, Cholesterol 20.4, Sodium 254.5, Carbohydrate 19.6, Fiber 0.3, Sugar 0.2, Protein 2.9

ARMENIAN RICE PILAF



Armenian Rice Pilaf image

Got this recipe from my brother. We both love it. Light, flavorful rice pilaf that does not overpower the flavor of the main dish, but rather compliments it. Also, low sodium - a plus! Some interesting variations to the basic recipe would be the addition of roasted pine nuts and minced dry apricots, or sautéing ¼ cup of minced onion or scallions in the butter just after browning the vermicelli.

Provided by Maureen in MA

Categories     Rice

Time 30m

Yield 4-6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 6

1 cup basmati long-grain white rice
1/2 cup vermicelli, broken up or 1/2 cup orzo pasta
2 tablespoons butter
2 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper

Steps:

  • Add vermicelli (or orzo) to deep, covered pan suitable for cooking rice. Heat until vermicelli is golden brown. Add rice and sauté for a minute in the butter and vermicelli. Add chicken broth and mix well. Bring to a boil and then lower heat and simmer for 20 minutes until rice is cooked.
  • DO NOT OPEN LID and PEEK!
  • Rice pilaf should not be gummy or salty. It is a subtle side dish, and is a complement to fish, poultry, lamb and veal.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 240, Fat 6.8, SaturatedFat 3.9, Cholesterol 15.3, Sodium 1007.8, Carbohydrate 37.6, Fiber 0.7, Sugar 0.4, Protein 5.8

ARMINYAN PLOV (ARMENIAN PILAF)



Arminyan Plov (Armenian Pilaf) image

This recipe is the speciality of the Dvin Hotel, Yerevan, Armenia and was served to me at a dinner party.

Provided by Member 610488

Categories     Grains

Time 1h15m

Yield 8 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 15

1 1/2 cups bulgur wheat (kasha)
1 onion, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups chicken broth
1/4 cup almonds, slivered
1 1/2 cups chickpeas, cooked
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon cardamom
1/2 teaspoon allspice
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/2 cup raisins
sour cream

Steps:

  • Sauté onion & garlic in olive oil until soft.
  • Add kasha & stir well.
  • Add all remaining ingredients except sour cream.
  • Bring to a boil, reduce heat to simmer, cover, & cook until liquid is absorbed.
  • Top each serving with a generous dollop of sour cream.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 182.7, Fat 6.7, SaturatedFat 0.8, Sodium 343.4, Carbohydrate 26.9, Fiber 4.7, Sugar 6.5, Protein 5.9

ARMENIAN VEGETABLE STEW WITH BULGUR PILAF



ARMENIAN VEGETABLE STEW WITH BULGUR PILAF image

Categories     Vegetable

Number Of Ingredients 24

Armenian Stew with Pilaf
Stew:
2 tsp canola oil
1 cup chopped onion
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried mint
1 tsp dried basil
1 bay leaf
1/2 tsp salt
2 medium carrots, peeled and cut into 1″ chunks
1 small zucchini, cut into 1″ pieces
1 cup chopped fresh tomatoes
1/2 cup tomato juice
1 15-oz can drained fava beans
1 large bunch swiss chard, torn into bite-sized pieces
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Pilaf:
2 tsp olive oil
1/3 cup finely chopped onion
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup bulgur
2 cups water
1/2 tsp chopped fresh rosemary

Steps:

  • Warm the oil in a dutch oven. Add the onions, garlic, mint, basil, bay leaf, and salt, cover, and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion begins to soften. Add the carrots, zucchini, tomatoes, and tomato juice, cover, and simmer until all of the veggies are tender, about 7 minutes. Add the fava beans and Swiss chard, cover again, adn cook an additional 2 minutes. Stir in the lemon juice, add more salt to taste, cover, and remove from the heat. Discard the bay leaf. Meanwhile, in a separate pan, warm the olive oil for the pilaf. Add the onions, garlic, and salt, cover, and saute for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the bulgur and stir continuously for about 2 minutes. Pour in the water, sprinkle in the rosemary, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the bulgur is tender. In a separate dish, mix the yogurt and minced garlic. When the bulgur is almost ready, reheat the stew, then ladle onto a pile of pilaf, and garnish with yogurt.

ARMENIAN RICE PILAF



ARMENIAN RICE PILAF image

Categories     Rice     Side     Steam     Vegetarian

Yield 4-6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 4

1 cup Mahatma basmati rice
1 can chicken broth with water added to get it to 2 cups
1-2 tbs. butter
1/2 c. FINE egg noodles

Steps:

  • melt butter, add egg noodles and saute over medium heat until golden, stirring frequently. Add broth and rice and bring to a boil. Cover and simmer on low about 15-20 mins. Remove from heat, let sit for about 10 mins. Fluff with fork and serve

ARMENIAN WEDDING PILAF



Armenian Wedding Pilaf image

This is my favorite type of pilaf similar to what my mother makes. You can customize it to your own taste.

Provided by Brian121

Categories     European

Time 20m

Yield 5-6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 4

1 1/2 cups Uncle Ben's converted brand rice
1/4 cup butter
3 cups water or 3 cups chicken broth
2 cups total of your favorite dried fruits (I use pine nuts, apricots, slivered almonds, currants and golden raisins) or 2 cups nuts, chopped into small pieces customize this part as you wish (I use pine nuts, apricots, slivered almonds, currants and golden raisins)

Steps:

  • Put rice and broth into a pot and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to simmer. Cover until the liquid is gone (about 20 min).
  • In a saute pan, melt the butter and add the dried fruit and nuts. Be careful not to burn the butter.
  • When the rice is done, put it in a large bowl and top it with the fruit and nut mixture.
  • Optionally, you may want to toast the nuts in a dry pan to help bring out more of their flavor.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 189.7, Fat 9.5, SaturatedFat 5.9, Cholesterol 24.4, Sodium 88.2, Carbohydrate 23.5, Fiber 0.5, Protein 2.3

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Armenian cuisine is rich in various types of rice pilafs. Armenian pilaf dishes are not only delicious, but they are also healthy and filling. The most commonly used rice for Armenian pilafs is long-grain rice. Armenian pilafs also feature various spices, vegetables, and meats. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular Armenian pilaf recipes.

Armenian Rice Pilaf

Armenian rice pilaf is a classic dish that is simple but flavorful. To make an Armenian rice pilaf, you need long-grain rice, chicken broth, butter or oil, onions, and garlic. To make the pilaf, melt the butter or oil in a pot, and sauté the onions and garlic. Add the rice and stir until the rice is coated with the butter. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover the pot. Cook for about 20 minutes until the rice is cooked through.
Ingredients:
  • 2 cups long-grain rice
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp butter or oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
Instructions:
  1. In a pot, melt the butter or oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and sauté until the onions are translucent.
  2. Add the rice to the pot and stir to coat with the butter.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil over high heat. Cover the pot and lower the heat to low, simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through.

Armenian Lamb and Apricot Pilaf

Lamb and apricot is a classic combination in Armenian cuisine, and it tastes especially delicious in a pilaf. To make an Armenian lamb and apricot pilaf, you need lamb meat, long-grain rice, dried apricots, chicken broth, onions, and spices such as cinnamon, allspice, and cumin. First, brown the lamb in a pot, then add onions and spices. Add the rice and chicken broth, and cook for about 20 minutes. Add apricots last, then serve.
Ingredients:
  • 1 lb. lamb, cut into small cubes
  • 2 cups long-grain rice
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tsp allspice
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 2 tbsp butter or oil
Instructions:
  1. Heat the butter or oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the lamb and brown it on all sides.
  2. Add the onions and spices to the pot and cook until the onions are translucent.
  3. Add the rice to the pot and stir to coat with the spices.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Cover the pot and lower the heat to low. Cook for about 15 minutes.
  5. Add the chopped apricots to the pot and cook for another 5 minutes.

Armenian Chickpea Pilaf

Armenian chickpea pilaf is a vegetarian dish that is still high in protein thanks to the chickpeas. To make an Armenian chickpea pilaf, you need chickpeas, long-grain rice, onions, garlic, and spices such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Saute the onions and garlic, then add the rice and spices. Add the chickpeas and chicken broth, and cook until the rice is done.
Ingredients:
  • 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups long-grain rice
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp coriander
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 2 tbsp butter or oil
Instructions:
  1. Melt the butter or oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and sauté until the onions are translucent.
  2. Add the rice to the pot and stir to coat with the butter.
  3. Add the chickpeas, spices, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir to combine.
  4. Cover the pot and lower the heat to low. Cook for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through.

Conclusion

Armenian pilaf recipes are delicious and healthy, featuring long-grain rice with various spices, vegetables, and meats. These recipes are easy to make and are perfect for any occasion. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or just looking for a tasty weekday meal, Armenian pilafs are sure to satisfy your cravings.

Valuable Tips When Making Armenian Pilaf Recipes

Armenian pilaf is a delicious and satisfying dish that is loved by many. It is made with ingredients like rice, onion, spices, and sometimes meat, vegetables or fruits. With its unique and flavorful taste, it is sure to please any palate. Here are some valuable tips to keep in mind when making Armenian pilaf.
Cooking Rice Perfectly
One of the most important aspects of making a perfect Armenian pilaf recipe is cooking the rice just right. The ideal pilaf features each grain of rice separated and fully cooked. However, it is important to avoid overcooking the rice, or else it can end up turning into a sticky mess. Here are some tips on how to cook rice perfectly for your Armenian pilaf:
  1. Before cooking, rinse the rice in cold water to remove any excess starch or debris.
  2. Add just the right amount of water. As a general rule of thumb, use about 1 ½ cups of water per 1 cup of rice.
  3. Bring the water to a boil and then add the rice. Stir once.
  4. Lower the heat, cover the pot and let the rice simmer for about 17 minutes.
  5. After 17 minutes, turn off the heat and let the rice sit covered for an additional 10 minutes before serving.
Choosing the Right Pot
When making Armenian pilaf, it is crucial to choose the right pot to cook it in. The ideal pot should be deep enough to accommodate all the ingredients and also have a tight-fitting lid to prevent steam from escaping. Additionally, a heavy-bottomed pot will help distribute heat evenly, preventing rice from burning or sticking to the bottom.
Adding Spice with Seasonings
Armenian pilaf is known for its rich and aromatic flavors. When making the dish, it is important to use the right spices and seasonings to enhance the taste. Here are some popular seasonings to use when making Armenian pilaf:
  • Cumin
  • Cinnamon
  • Turmeric
  • Cardamom
  • Coriander
  • Paprika
Using the Perfect Ratio of Ingredients
The perfect Armenian pilaf is all about balance. It is necessary to have the perfect proportion of rice, spices, vegetables, meat, and fruits to make the dish just right. Here are some tips to get the perfect balance of ingredients when making Armenian pilaf.
  1. For each cup of rice, use 1 ½ cups of liquid (water or broth).
  2. If you plan to add meat, use about 1 pound for every 2 cups of rice.
  3. If adding vegetables, roughly chop them into small pieces so that they will cook evenly with the rice. Add them to the pot after cooking the onion, and cook until they are tender.
  4. If adding fruit such as raisins, apricots or dates, add them in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Adding Layers of Flavor
Armenian pilaf is a flavorful dish that can be made even more delicious with some additional layers of flavor. Some popular ingredients to add include:
  • Barberries - These are small, tart berries that add a tangy flavor to the pilaf.
  • Pomegranate seeds - Add some fresh pomegranate seeds for a burst of sweet and tart flavor.
  • Nuts - Add some toasted slivered almonds or pine nuts to the pilaf for some added crunch.
  • Caramelized Onions - Cook the onions until they are brown and caramelized to add a deep and rich flavor.
Adding Meat or Vegetables for a Complete Meal
While Armenian pilaf is traditionally served as a side dish, it can be made into a complete meal by adding meat or vegetables. Some popular additions include lamb, beef, chicken, or even chickpeas. Additionally, adding vegetables like carrots, peas, and bell peppers can provide additional nutrients and flavor to the dish.
Garnishing the Pilaf
To make your Armenian pilaf look even more beautiful and appealing, consider garnishing it with:
  • Fresh herbs - Chopped parsley or coriander can add some freshness to the dish.
  • Nuts - Add some chopped nuts on top for some added texture.
  • Fruit - Top with some fresh pomegranate seeds or dried fruit like raisins, apricots, or dates.
  • Yogurt - Serve with a dollop of plain yogurt on top to help balance out the flavors.
In conclusion, making Armenian pilaf requires some practice and patience. With these valuable tips in mind, you can make a delicious and flavorful pilaf that is sure to please your family and friends. Remember to start with good-quality ingredients, use the right pot, and season well for the ideal result. Happy cooking!

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