Lesson Description & Goals

Pilaf is one of the four main methods for cooking rice. Though many grains are also cooked using this method, in this lesson, we are going to focus on using rice, which is generally the most common.

Pilaf is very popular in Indian, Mexican and Middle Eastern cuisines. The pilaf method is similar to the steaming method; however, the rice or grain is first sautéed, often with aromatics, before any liquid is added. For this reason, pilafs are highly flavorful. Pilafs frequently contain added ingredients, such as fish or meats, to create a more substantial meal.

In this lesson, you will learn how to make a basic pilaf. You will also learn how to enhance and flavor a basic pilaf to create many flavorful side dishes. Finally, you will learn how to properly add proteins to a pilaf to create hearty and delicious, one-pot meals.

• Describe the pilaf process
• Know the difference between the steaming and pilaf method for cooking rice (or other grains)
• Understand how to make a basic pilaf without a recipe
• Know how to enhance a basic pilaf
• Know how to add proteins to pilaf
• Make side dishes and main meals out of pilaf

Lesson Topic Videos

• Introduction to Pilaf (1:02)
• How to Make a Basic Pilaf (2:52)
• How to Enhance and Flavor a Basic Pilaf (1:32)
• Adding Proteins to Pilaf (2:40)

Lesson Prerequisites

IMPORTANT NOTE:
We wanted you to be aware that there are one or more identified prerequisites to this lesson. Whether you choose to purchase a prerequisite lesson or lessons is up to you, but this lesson will likely include references to prerequisite lessons.

• Rice Basics

All Lessons in the Rice & Grains Section

• Rice Basics
• Cooking Rice | Steaming & Boiling Methods
• Cooking Rice | Pilaf Method
• The Risotto Method
• How to Vary Risotto
• How to Cook Grains
• How to Make Polenta