Bosnian Beef and Vegetable Pilaf
Zlatni Pilav
A fragrant and flavorful pilaf featuring tender beef, aromatic rice, and a medley of vegetables, often enhanced with spices like turmeric for its golden hue. This dish is a comforting and satisfying meal, perfect for family gatherings.
๐ง Ingredients
- 500 g Beef stew meat, cubed
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 2 Large onions, finely chopped
- 3 Garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium Carrots, diced
- 2 Celery stalks, diced
- 300 g Long-grain rice
- 750 ml Beef broth
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Paprika
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
๐จโ๐ณ Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
๐ก Tip: Browning the meat in batches ensures a good sear and prevents overcrowding the pan. - 2
Add the chopped onions to the pot and sautรฉ until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
๐ก Tip: Lower the heat if the onions start to brown too quickly. - 3
Stir in the diced carrots and celery and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
๐ก Tip: This step helps to soften the vegetables slightly before adding the rice. - 4
Add the rice to the pot and stir for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted. Stir in the turmeric and paprika.
๐ก Tip: Toasting the rice enhances its nutty flavor and helps the grains stay separate. - 5
Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth, season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until the beef is tender and the rice is cooked through.
๐ก Tip: Ensure the liquid level is appropriate for the rice; add a little more broth or water if it seems too dry. - 6
Once cooked, let the pilaf rest, covered, for 10 minutes before fluffing with a fork. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
๐ก Tip: Resting allows the rice to absorb any remaining moisture and become perfectly fluffy.
๐ก Pro Tips
- โFor a richer flavor, you can add a bay leaf during the simmering process.
- โIf you don't have beef broth, chicken broth or water can be used, but beef broth provides the best flavor.
- โAdjust the amount of turmeric to achieve your desired golden color.
โจ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other vegetables like peas, green beans, or diced bell peppers.
- For a meatless version, omit the beef and use vegetable broth.
- Garnish with toasted slivered almonds or pine nuts for added texture.