Turkish Pilaf With Saffron Goji Berries Food

TURKISH PILAF WITH SAFFRON & GOJI BERRIES

Steps:

• Finely chop the garlic and set aside to activate (see tip). Meanwhile, pour 2 tbsp boiling water over the saffron and set aside to infuse. Heat 2 tsp of the oil in a large, non-stick sauté pan with a lid, then add the turkey and fry for 5 mins, stirring frequently, until it starts to brown.
• Stir the rice and cinnamon into the pan, then pour in 400ml boiling water and the bouillon, and stir well. Add the celery, thyme, goji berries and lots of ground black pepper. Cover the pan tightly to prevent steam escaping, and cook over a low heat for 20 mins.
• Meanwhile, heat the remaining oil in a non-stick pan and add the onion. When it starts to soften, cover the pan for 5 mins to steam it a little more. Take off the lid and slowly fry for 12-15 mins until golden, stirring frequently.
• After the rice has cooked for 20 mins, check the water level - if the rice is still too nutty and the liquid has all been absorbed, add up to 100ml more water. Stir in the saffron, cover again, and cook for 5-10 mins until the rice is tender.
• Add the garlic and spinach, cook briefly to wilt the leaves, then turn off the heat. Toss through the fried onions and almonds. Cover the pan and leave to rest for 5 mins before serving.

TURKISH RICE PILAF WITH ORZO

Steps:

• Rinse the rice in cold water at least three times to remove any excess starch. (see note 4)
• Pour your broth into a small pan and heat until simmering. Or microwave it until steaming hot.
• Place a large skillet (one with a lid) or shallow pan (again with a lid) over medium heat.
• Add the butter and oil to the skillet to melt.
• Add in the orzo, stir to coat well, then cook the pasta for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until well browned.
• While the pasta is cooking, peel and finely chop the onion and garlic.
• Reduce the heat under the skillet, then add the onion to the pasta and saute gently for 4 minutes.
• Add the garlic and the rice and stir together until the rice is bright white.
• Add the hot broth, salt, and pepper and bring to a simmer.
• Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
• Remove from heat, but don't lift the lid. Let the finished pilaf stand for 5-10 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
• Sprinkle the finished pilaf with lemon juice and serve.