Pork Pilaf–A Sugar-Free Dinner For A Large Family
Delicious pork pilaf with tender meat, fluffy rice, and aromatic spices — a simple, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 2 lb pork (tenderloin or belly)
- 2 lb carrots
- 2 lb short-grain rice
- 2 large onions
- 1 dried chili (optional)
- 2.5 tablespoon pilaf spice blend
- ½ cup olive oil
- 1 whole garlic
- salt (to taste)
- hot water (depending on the volume of the pan)
Instructions
- Preheat a deep skillet or wok with olive oil. Sauté chopped onion for 4–5 min until golden. Add 1-inch pork pieces and cook 10 min, until lightly browned.
- Add carrots (julienned), cover, and cook 3–5 min without stirring.
- Meanwhile, rinse rice several times until the water runs clear.
- Stir the contents of the pan, add spices, and pour in hot water (1 inch above ingredients). Optionally, add a chili. Cover, reduce heat, and cook 1 hr.
- Meanwhile, cut garlic crosswise through the middle.
- Once the meat is tender, remove the chili, add rice evenly over the meat and carrots. Add hot water (1½ inches above). Cover and simmer. When water evaporates from the surface, press in garlic halves and cook until rice is done.
- Pierce holes with a wooden stick for steam. Smooth the top, place a plate over the rice, cover, and simmer on low for 30 min. Do not stir.
- Remove garlic, fluff gently, and serve with fresh herbs and a mix of sour cream, salt, and minced garlic.
Notes
- It is crucial not to stir the ingredients from the moment you add the rice until cooking is complete. This ensures the dish develops the perfect texture.
- Take your time to rinse the rice thoroughly before adding it to the skillet so the pilaf turns out light and fluffy.
- For a more authentic pilaf, consider substituting lamb or beef for the pork.
