Introduction
Welcome to Love With Recipes, where culinary inspiration meets wholesome nutrition. Today, we delve into a delightful dish that embodies simplicity, healthfulness, and rich flavor: Raisins, Nuts n’ Bulgur. This recipe is a celebration of textures and flavors—plump, sweet raisins contrasted with crunchy pine nuts, all embraced by tender, fluffy bulgur wheat. Perfect for a quick lunch, a nourishing snack, or a side dish, this dish aligns with vegan principles and low-cholesterol dietary needs. Its versatility allows you to customize with your favorite dried fruits and nuts, making it an adaptable staple for any kitchen. With a preparation time of just 10 minutes and a baking period of 30 minutes, this recipe exemplifies convenience without compromising on taste or nutritional value. Crafted for lovers of wholesome, plant-based foods, this dish is not only satisfying but also packed with dietary fiber, essential minerals, and antioxidants—ideal for health-conscious individuals seeking flavorful, easy-to-make meals.
Time
Total Time: 40 minutes
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Needed Equipment
- Oven
- 1-quart casserole dish (preferably ceramic or glass for even heat distribution)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Fork (for fluffing)
- Toasting pan or skillet (optional, for toasting pine nuts)
- Aluminum foil or oven-safe lid (optional, for covering during baking)
- Kitchen timer
- Cooling rack (for cooling baked bulgur)
- Airtight storage containers for leftovers
Tags
Vegan, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, Grain-Based, Fruit-Infused, Nutty, Quick & Easy, Oven-Baked, Vegetarian, Snack, Side Dish, Plant-Based
Serving Size
Serves approximately 6 people, with each serving roughly 1 cup of the prepared dish.
Difficulty Level
Easy — This recipe requires minimal culinary skills, mainly involving simple mixing, baking, and garnishing steps suitable for cooks of all levels.
Allergen Information
| Allergen | Present in Recipe | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Nuts | Yes | Pine nuts are used; may be substituted with other nuts like walnuts or almonds for allergy considerations. |
| Dried Fruits | Yes | Golden and dark raisins; ensure no added sulfites if sensitive. |
| Gluten | No | Bulgar is a wheat product but is gluten; suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals if tolerated. |
| Vegetarian/Vegan | Yes | Contains no animal products. |
Dietary Preference
Vegan, Plant-Based, Dairy-Free, Egg-Free, Nut-Containing (but optional for allergy substitution), Naturally Gluten-Free (if gluten sensitivity is not a concern)
Course
Main Course, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine
Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, Healthy Grains
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bulgar Wheat | 1 cup | Rinse before use to remove excess starch. |
| Boiling Water | 2 cups | Used to hydrate the bulgur. |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | Enhances flavor. |
| Dried Basil | 1 teaspoon | Adds aromatic flavor; optional but recommended. |
| Golden Raisins | 1/2 cup | Sweet, light-colored dried grapes. |
| Dark Raisins | 1/2 cup | For deeper sweetness. |
| Pine Nuts | 1/2 cup | Toasted for enhanced flavor and crunch. |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dish
Set your oven to preheat at 300°F (150°C). While the oven heats, take a 1-quart casserole dish and lightly butter or oil the interior to prevent sticking. If you prefer, you can also line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Preparing the dish beforehand ensures a smooth cooking process once the ingredients are assembled.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Baking Dish
In the prepared casserole dish, add the rinsed bulgur wheat. Rinsing is important to remove excess surface starch, which prevents clumping and ensures fluffy cooked grains. Next, pour in 2 cups of boiling water—this helps to kick-start the hydration process as the hot water quickly softens the bulgur. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to enhance overall flavor, and sprinkle in dried basil for aromatic depth. Incorporate both golden and dark raisins, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture. The raisins will rehydrate during baking, infusing the dish with natural sweetness and moisture, while the basil adds a subtle herbal note that complements the fruit and grains.
Step 3: Baking the Mixture
Cover the dish with aluminum foil or an oven-safe lid to trap moisture, which is essential for tender bulgur. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30 to 45 minutes. This longer baking window ensures that the bulgur absorbs the moisture thoroughly, becomes tender, and the flavors meld beautifully. During baking, the raisins will swell and become plump, adding bursts of sweetness with each bite.
Step 4: Fluff and Garnish
Upon completion of baking, carefully remove the dish from the oven and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes. Fluff the bulgur gently with a fork to loosen the grains, which promotes a light, airy texture and prevents clumping. Meanwhile, toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown—this step is optional but highly recommended as toasted nuts release more flavor and add crunch to the dish. Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts over the fluffed bulgur, press lightly to embed them, and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Preparation Tips
- Rinsing Bulgur: Always rinse bulgur under cold running water to remove any dust or excess starch. This ensures a fluffier texture once cooked.
- Toasting Nuts: Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly until fragrant and golden. Be vigilant as nuts can burn quickly.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment by adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley, mint, or cilantro after baking. For a touch of acidity, squeeze a lemon wedge over the finished dish before serving.
- Sweetness Adjustments: Add a drizzle of honey or agave syrup if you prefer a sweeter profile, especially if serving as a dessert or sweet side.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 228.4 kcal |
| Fat | 8.1 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 396.2 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 38.4 g |
| Fiber | 5.7 g |
| Sugar | 14.8 g |
| Protein | 5.2 g |
Tips and Tricks
- Alternative Nuts: Swap pine nuts with chopped walnuts, almonds, or cashews for variety and if you have nut allergies.
- Adding Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed spinach, roasted bell peppers, or grilled zucchini after baking for added nutrients and color.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the dish a day ahead, store in the refrigerator, and reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with a fresh green salad or a side of hummus for a complete meal.
Add-ons
- Chopped fresh herbs (parsley, mint, cilantro)
- Chopped dried apricots or cranberries for additional sweetness
- Feta cheese or vegan cheese crumbles for a savory twist
- Chopped roasted vegetables for added richness
Side Dishes
- Roasted Mediterranean vegetables
- Fresh vegetable salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Homemade hummus and pita bread
- Grilled tofu or tempeh for added protein
Improvements
- Cook the bulgur in vegetable broth instead of water for deeper flavor.
- Mix in sautéed garlic and onions during baking for aromatic enhancement.
- Use a slow cooker or rice cooker to prepare bulgur for an even more hands-off approach.
- Experiment with different dried fruits like apricots, figs, or cherries for varied sweetness profiles.
Save and Store
Leftover bulgur can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. To reheat, microwave on low or reheat in the oven covered with foil to retain moisture. To refresh the flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
FAQ
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can assemble the ingredients and bake it in advance. Once cooled, store it in the refrigerator and reheat later. Toast the pine nuts fresh before serving for the best crunch and flavor.
Can I substitute the raisins with other dried fruits?
Yes. Dried apricots, cranberries, or chopped dates work well and can add different flavor nuances. Adjust the quantity based on sweetness preference.
Is bulgur gluten-free?
No, bulgur is made from wheat and contains gluten. For gluten-sensitive individuals, consider substituting with cooked quinoa or millet.
Can I add fresh vegetables?
Certainly. Incorporate sautéed spinach, roasted peppers, or diced cucumbers after baking for added freshness and texture.
Conclusion
The Raisins, Nuts n’ Bulgur recipe from lovewithrecipes.com embodies the essence of wholesome, simple, and nutritious cooking. Its blend of tender bulgur, naturally sweet raisins, and crunchy toasted pine nuts creates a symphony of textures and flavors that are both satisfying and nourishing. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this dish can be customized endlessly to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Its quick preparation, combined with the rich nutritional profile, makes it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a plant-based, low-cholesterol option that does not compromise on flavor. Embrace this versatile recipe as a healthy addition to your culinary repertoire, and enjoy the delightful harmony of grains, fruits, and nuts in every bite. Remember, at Love With Recipes, we’re committed to helping you create dishes that are as nourishing as they are delicious.
References
- MedlinePlus. Bulgur Wheat. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002475.htm
- The Mediterranean Diet. (2020). Fruits and Nuts. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324986