When it comes to comforting meals, pilaf with tender meat is always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or just to satisfy your hunger after a busy day, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and absolutely delicious. The combination of sautéed onions, veal, carrots, and rice creates a savory and hearty dish that will leave everyone feeling full and content.
I recently made this pilaf with veal after picking up my kids from online school. After a long morning of classes and assignments, they were ready for a satisfying meal. While they may not have been hungry right away, once the aroma of this pilaf filled the house, there was no turning back! It’s the perfect recipe for a quick dinner, and it pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad and a dollop of yogurt on the side.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 400g veal (or lamb, as per the original recipe)
- 2 grated carrots
- 2 cups rice, well-washed and drained
- 4 cups water
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Paprika, to taste (preferably sweet)
- Turmeric, for flavor and color
- Parsley, finely chopped (optional)
- Vegetable seasoning (Vegeta), optional
Instructions:
Prepare the Base: In a large pot or deep skillet, heat 1 cup of oil and a tablespoon of butter. Once the butter has melted, add the chopped onions. Sauté them over medium heat for about 5 minutes until they start turning golden brown and soft. The onions are key to creating a flavorful base for the pilaf, so make sure they’re well-cooked.
Cook the Meat: Add the 400g veal (or lamb, if preferred) to the pot. Stir and cook the meat with the onions for about 10 minutes. The meat should be browned and seared on the outside, locking in all its juices. If you're using veal, it cooks relatively quickly and is tender, making it perfect for this dish.Add the Carrots: Grate 2 carrots and add them to the pot. Mix well and sauté for another 3-5 minutes. The carrots add a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the pilaf.
Add the Rice: Now, add the 2 cups of rice to the pot. Stir it gently with the meat and vegetables, letting it cook for 5 minutes. This step helps the rice absorb some of the flavors and oils, giving it a rich texture.
Simmer and Cook: Pour in the 4 cups of water, then add salt, black pepper, paprika, turmeric, and vegetable seasoning (if you’re using it). Stir everything together and cover the pot. Let the rice cook on low heat for about 10 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is fully cooked.
Serving Suggestions: Serve the pilaf hot with a side of fresh salad and a dollop of yogurt. The coolness of the yogurt complements the warmth and richness of the pilaf perfectly. We really enjoyed it, and I’m definitely making it again!
Why This Pilaf is a Family Favorite:
This pilaf with veal is not only incredibly easy to make, but it also packs a lot of flavor. It’s a great dish for any time of the year, offering a balanced meal with proteins, vegetables, and rice all in one pot. The veal, sautéed onions, and the mix of spices create a satisfying meal that brings everyone together.
It’s also versatile—you can adjust the seasonings to your liking or swap the veal for chicken or lamb depending on your preferences. The carrots provide a natural sweetness that balances the savory flavors of the meat, and the rice absorbs all the flavors, making each bite delicious.
Tips for the Perfect Pilaf:
- Don’t skip the onion sautéing step—it’s what gives the pilaf its deep, rich flavor.
- Let the rice cook without stirring too much so it stays fluffy and doesn’t get mushy.
- If you want extra flavor, try adding a touch of garlic or lemon juice before serving.
This pilaf is the kind of dish that tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for leftovers or a hearty lunch. Whether you’re feeding a family or just craving a warm, comforting meal, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Enjoy it with a smile, just like we did after a nice walk through town and some good conversation about the future dreams of my kids—each with their own ambitions of playing football in England or developing video games! It’s the kind of day I’ll cherish, and this pilaf was the perfect end to it.
