Meatballs and Rice Plov (Pilaf) - One Pot Dinner Recipe

ground meat

🥗Healthier: ground turkey

💰Cheaper: ground beef

Ground turkey is leaner and lower in fat.

rice

🥗Healthier: quinoa

💰Cheaper: bulgur wheat

Quinoa is a protein-rich alternative.

vegetable oil

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Olive oil adds flavor while being heart-healthy.

chickpeas

🥗Healthier: lentils

💰Cheaper: canned beans

Lentils are nutritious and cook faster.

Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Stir in grated carrots and cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened.

Add ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart, about 7-10 minutes.

Mix in garlic, cumin, black pepper, and salt, cooking for 2 minutes to release aromas.

Add rice and stir well to coat with the mixture for 2 minutes.

Pour in water, add bay leaves, and bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes until rice is tender.

In the last 5 minutes, add chickpeas and stir gently.

Remove from heat and let it rest covered for 10 minutes.

Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: