Turkish Rice (Pilav)

One of the typical and simple dishes in Turkey is Pilaf (Rice). This is one of my favorites, and you may be thinking, rice? This rice however is moist, warm, and so smooth to the palate. Since it is one of my favorites, I figured I would share the best way to wake rice, the Turkish way!

Ingredients:
2 cups of long-grain rice
2 cups of hot water
About 6 tbsp butter or Vegetable Oil (The oil should cover the rice when used)
2 tsp salt
Pinch of pepper

Wash the rice several times with warm water and drain, until the water is clear. Then fill the bowl of rice with hot water and leave for about 15 minutes, then drain. Melt the butter or pour the vegetable oil in a cooking pot. If using vegetable oil (I prefer) then make sure that all the rice is covered. Saute the rice with butter/oil for 2-3 minutes while stirring. The rice will become clumping, this is a good sign. Pour 2 cups of hot water in it. Add salt and pepper. Turn the heat to low, cover with lid, and cook until the rice absorbs all the water. This will take approx. 15 minutes.

Take the cooking pot away from the heat, when it is finished. Open the lid, and let the Pilaf stand for about 5 minutes. After the "brewing time" you are ready to serve!


VERY IMPORTANT POINTS YOU MUST FOLLOW:

***Don't stir Pilaf while it's cooking.***
*** Don't use a spoon to fluff Pilaf. Use a wooden or regular fork for it.***

Other notes:
* You can deviate and mix in shredded cooked chicken or chickpeas in when you add the water to the cooked rice. This is another great option that the Turks, as well as I, enjoy.

Makes 6-8 servings.

You can serve Turkish Rice Pilaf with any meal. My favorite is mixing in PLAIN yogurt and served with some chopped fresh greens (lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, with vinegar and olive oil).

Afiyet Olsun! / / May it bring you appetite and health!