Ingredients

Rice and Bread

500 grams (1.1 pounds) of basmati rice, rinsed and parboiled
150 grams (5.3 ounces) of butter, melted
Tortilla bread, cut into triangles

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Beef

Begin by cooking 700 grams of beef for about 1.5 hours until tender. Once cooked, allow it to cool slightly before cutting it into bite-sized pieces. This step is crucial for ensuring the meat is flavorful and easy to eat.

Step 2

Sauté the Vegetables and Fruits

In a large pan, heat some oil and add 2 chopped onions. Sauté until they are golden brown. Then, add 350 grams of mixed dried fruits along with some black pepper, paprika, and salt. Stir well and let it cook for a few minutes until the fruits soften.

Step 3

Prepare the Rice

Take 500 grams of basmati rice and rinse it thoroughly under cold water. Then, parboil the rice until it's half-cooked. This ensures it will finish cooking perfectly later in the oven. Drain and set aside.

Step 4

Layer the Dish

Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). In a baking dish, arrange the tortilla triangles at the bottom, brushing them with some of the melted 150 grams of butter. Then, add a layer of half the rice, followed by the sautéed meats and vegetables. Top it off with the remaining rice, and drizzle more butter over it.

Step 5

Bake the Pilaf

Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour. This will ensure that all the flavors meld together beautifully while giving the bread a nice crispy texture on top. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.

Step 6

Serve and Enjoy

Remove the pilaf from the oven, carefully flip it over onto a serving platter, and serve hot. This dish is sure to impress your guests with its rich flavors and beautiful presentation. Enjoy!

Servings

When it's time to serve your Royal Pilaf, consider presenting it in an inviting manner. **Place it on a beautiful platter** and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to add a pop of color. 😍👌

**Pair it with a light salad** or some yogurt sauce for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. Imagine enjoying this flaky, crispy lavash alongside seasonal vegetables—such a delightful combination! 🥗✨

Gather your friends and make it a cozy **dinner party event**. Everyone will be eager to dig into this hearty dish, sharing stories and laughter around the table. 🍽️❤️

Equipment

Deep Baking Dish

Your baking dish needs to be deep enough to accommodate layers of rice, meat, and lavash. A casserole dish works wonderfully.

Variations

For those who are looking for alternatives, we have some exciting options for you! **Try making this dish gluten-free** by substituting the lavash with gluten-free flatbreads or rice paper. 🌾🚫

If you're vegan, consider omitting the beef and replacing it with hearty mushrooms or jackfruit for a satisfying texture. No need for animal products when you can pack in the flavors! **Add extra vegetables** like bell peppers or carrots to enhance your dish further. 🥕🍄

Faq

  • What type of beef should I use for this recipe?

    Choosing a good cut of beef like chuck or brisket is key as they become tender when cooked slowly.

  • Can I prepare the pilaf ahead of time?

    Yes, you can cook the beef and rice a day prior and assemble the dish with lavash right before baking.

  • How long should I bake the pilaf for the best results?

    Bake it at 150°C for about an hour until the lavash is perfectly crispy.

  • Is it possible to substitute the spices in this recipe?

    Absolutely! Feel free to explore different spices like cumin or coriander according to your taste preferences.

  • What should I do if I want to add more flavors?

    Consider marinating the beef overnight with spices for a deeper flavor and add a splash of lemon juice before serving.

  • Can leftovers be stored and reheated?

    Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave to enjoy again!

Nutrition facts

Delicious Royal Pilaf for Any Celebration
Recipe Yield:8 servings
Calories:Approximately 600 to 800 calories per serving
Calories (Min - Max):600 - 800
Total Fat:25g
Saturated Fat:10g
Protein:40g
Total Carbohydrate:70g
Total Sugars:30g