Ic Pilaf(Savory Rice)
A savory rice dish with tender liver, pine nuts, and aromatic spices, perfect for a hearty meal that combines rich flavors with a touch of dill freshness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove the skin from the liver and chop it finely.
- Fry the liver in 2 tablespoons of margarine and set aside.
- Put the rice in hot water and let it cool, then wash it in plenty of cold water.
- In a pan, melt 8 tablespoons of margarine and fry the pine nuts and chopped onion until the onion is transparent.
- Add the rice to this mixture and fry for 10 minutes.
- Add black pepper, cinnamon, mixed spices, 3 cups of water, currants, salt, sugar, and chopped tomatoes or tomato sauce.
- Cover with a lid and boil until the rice has absorbed the water.
- Reduce the heat and cook gently until the rice is done.
- Add the fried liver to the rice and mix in the finely chopped dill.
- Fluff up the rice while serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting chicken stock for water. If you want a vegetarian option, omit the liver and add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. You can use basmati or jasmine rice for a fragrant twist. For added texture, try incorporating toasted almonds or walnuts instead of pine nuts.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this savory rice pilaf alongside grilled meats or as a hearty side dish to Mediterranean recipes. It pairs beautifully with Greek Chicken And Rice for a complete meal. You can garnish with additional dill or serve with a side of yogurt for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the rice and cover it in a microwave-safe dish, heating in short intervals until warmed through. You can also reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ic Pilaf(Savory Rice) contains roughly 237 calories, with 8g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (65% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. It also contributes 10g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of rice for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute long-grain rice or even quinoa for a different texture. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, since different grains absorb water differently.
What if I don't have margarine?
You can easily replace margarine with butter or olive oil. Butter will add a rich flavor, while olive oil can make the dish lighter and is a great option for those looking for a healthier fat.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can omit the liver and enhance the dish with more vegetables or legumes. Incorporating chickpeas or roasted vegetables can provide protein and flavor, making it a satisfying vegetarian meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).