One Pot Prawn and Vegetable Pilaf

Enjoy the delightful flavours of this one-pot wonder: a delectable Prawn and Vegetable Pilaf that's not only simple but bursting with mouthwatering taste. It's the perfect choice for a quick and satisfying meal, any day of the week.

I absolutely adore one-pan rice dishes like this incredible Prawn and Vegetable Pilaf. They are a lifesaver on those busy days when I crave a delicious meal without the fuss. What I truly appreciate about dishes like this is the opportunity to effortlessly incorporate an array of wholesome foods, making it a breeze to meet my nutritional needs.

Take, for instance, this mouthwatering rice pilaf. It's a vibrant medley of onions, carrots, courgette (zucchini), and peppers, infusing a stunning burst of colours into the dish. Not to mention, the harmonious blend of spices—cumin, coriander, and turmeric—adds an irresistible depth of flavor that elevates this meal to a whole new level of culinary delight

Calories in Prawn and Vegetable Pilaf

These delicious Pilaf serves 4 people and has 304 calories per serving (no sides).

If you're looking for more recipes within the same calorie range, you'll find an abundance of options in my dedicated collection of 300+ calorie recipes.

If you're following a calorie-controlled diet or a healthy eating plan, it's important to calculate your daily calorie intake using a reliable calorie calculator. Please note that the calorie counts provided are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes. Personalizing your calculations is essential to meet your individual needs. By using a calorie calculator, you can make informed choices and stay on track with your dietary goals.

What is Pilaf?

What exactly is pilaf? Well, according to the reliable source of culinary knowledge, Wikipedia, Pilaf (or Pilau) rice originally hails from India. However, this delectable dish has transcended borders, undergoing fascinating transformations in countries worldwide. You might even notice slight variations in names and spellings, not to mention the diverse selection of grains, vegetables, and proteins used in different regions.

One thing remains constant, though: the sheer deliciousness of pilaf rice. It has earned its place as a beloved and popular choice among rice dishes, captivating taste buds across the globe.

Ingredients you need

To prepare this Chicken Shawarma and Rice, here are some notes on the ingredients used:

1. Large Raw Prawns: For this recipe, be sure to opt for large, peeled, and deveined prawns (shrimp). You can use either fresh or frozen prawns, but if you go with the frozen variety, make sure to follow the defrosting instructions on the packaging.
2. Rice: For this pilaf dish, it's best to use Basmati rice for its extra-long grains. However, basic long-grain rice will also suffice. Avoid using sticky rice varieties like Jasmine rice.
3. Onion: just a regular white onion
4. Garlic: fresh garlic minced, but lazy or jarred mince garlic is fine also.
5. Carrot: just regular fresh carrots, diced
6. Bell Pepper: a diced red bell pepper adds a pop of colour to the dish, but any colour of bell pepper will suffice.
7. Courgette/Zucchini: Diced and added into the recipe, they not only provide a nutritional boost but also introduce an extra burst of vibrant color to the dish, making it all the more enticing
8. Edamame Beans -I keep things simple by using frozen, peeled edamame beans. While they may not be a traditional ingredient in pilaf, I adore the extra fibre and protein they bring to the table, elevating this dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.
9. Spices: To infuse delightful flavours into the dish, we use a tantalizing mix of spices, including ground cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and the aromatic green cardamom pods
10. Stock: I opt for chicken stock because it complements the overall flavor profile of the pilaf and enhances the other ingredients beautifully. It's essential to get the stock cube-to-water ratio just right. Keep in mind that not all stock cubes are created equal; using the wrong amount can lead to either a lackluster and watery broth or an overly salty stock.
11. Coriander (Cilantro): When stirred in after cooking, freshly chopped coriander (cilantro) not only imparts an extra burst of vibrant colour but also elevates the dish with its delightful flavour. However it is an optional ingredient.
12. Low Calorie Spray: use your preferred brand. I like to opt for one without any emulsifiers, such as a avocado or olive oil spray.
13. Salt and Pepper: These essential flavour enhancers play a crucial role in elevating the taste of your dishes. We use them to season the steak bites and recommend using them to season the final dish to taste as well. They ensure your food is never bland when used appropriately.

Once you've gathered all the ingredients and prepared them accordingly, you're all set to create this easy and delightful recipe.

See the recipe card for specific quantities and instructions.

Variations/Substitutes on the Recipe

Wondering what swaps or variations you can make on the recipe? Here are some suggestions:

Other proteins: You can swap the prawns for another protein of choice if you don't like seafood, such as chicken

Vegetables: most of the vegetables in this dish can be swapped out for another, so if there is something you don't like either omit or swap for a similar vegetables.

Make it Vegetarian: omit the prawns (shrimp) and use vegetable stock and this dish will be suitable for vegetarians.

Bean Swap: If edamame isn't your thing or you're looking to try something different, consider adding chickpeas to your pilaf. They bring a delightful twist to the dish!

Add some spice: Craving a bit of heat in your rice dish? Think about tossing in some green or red chilies. Remember, it's the seeds and pith of the chili that bring the heat, so choose wisely based on your preferred level of spiciness.

Choosing the Perfect Pan for Preparing the Ultimate Pilaf

When it comes to cooking the perfect pilaf, selecting the right type of pan can make all the difference. Here are your options:

1. Wide, Heavy-Bottomed Pan: This type of pan ensures even cooking and traps flavorful steam inside, resulting in a delectable pilaf.
2. Non-Stick Pan: A non-stick pan is great for easy cleanup and requires less oil, making it a healthier option. Ceramic Non-stick pans are my favourite.
3. Stainless Steel Pan: Stainless steel pans excel in heat distribution, offering you precise control over your pilaf's texture and taste.

Choose the one that suits your preferences and needs, and you'll be on your way to pilaf perfection!

Tips for Cooking Pilaf

To achieve the perfect pilaf, follow these essential steps:

1. Choose the Right Rice: Begin with the correct type of rice. Basmati or long-grain rice works best for pilaf.
2. Translucent Rice: Before adding the stock, sauté the rice in the pan until it becomes translucent. This step enhances the flavour and texture.
3. Proper Stock Ratio: Maintain a ratio of 2 cups of stock to 1 cup of rice. This ensures the right balance of flavours and moisture.
4. Hands-Off After Stock: Once you've added the stock, resist the temptation to stir or disturb the rice. Allow it to simmer gently until the stock is absorbed.
5. Lid On, Heat Off: After the stock is absorbed, cover the pan with a lid, turn off the heat, and let it rest for 10-12 minutes. The trapped steam will work its magic and ensure perfectly cooked rice.
6. Fluff and Serve: Finally, use a fork to fluff up the rice, releasing any trapped steam, and it's ready to be served.

With these tips, you'll master the art of making delectable pilaf every time

Main Dishes to Serve with Pilaf

This Prawn and Vegetable Pilaf is a perfect complete meal in a bowl served just as it is, but if you prefer to serve it as a side to a curry type dish, consider one of these delicious recipes:

Lentil Curry

• Aubergine, Courgette, Sweet Potato and Lentil Curry
• Fish and Scallop Curry
• Healthy Matar Paneer Curry
• Coconut Vegetable Curry (Vegan)
• Butternut Squash Chickpea Curry (Vegan)
• Instant Pot Tarka Dhal (Tadka Dal)
• Easy Red Lentil Dhal
• Chana Paneer
• Smoked Paprika Chicken Casserole (Instant Pot, Slow Cooker or Stove Top)
• Lemon Chilli Chicken

or if you would like more recipe ideas or sides to make with this recipe - head on over to the FULL RECIPE INDEX where you will find over 900 delicious recipes with calories and you can search by meal type, ingredients, course, diet and more.

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