Rice pilaf is a popular dish in many cultures worldwide, and it’s no different in Turkey. “Nohutlu Pilav” is a delicious rice pilaf found in Turkish cuisine. This classic dish is made with basmati rice and chickpeas, and it’s served as an accompaniment to numerous other dishes. Here, we look at this tasty traditional meal and explore why it remains so popular today.
What is Nohutlu Pilav?
Nohutlu Pilav is a traditional Turkish dish consisting of cooked white basmati rice and chickpeas. The mixture of these two ingredients makes for a delicious meal packed full of flavor and nutrition. It can be served as a primary or side dish, depending on your preference. Salads, various sauces, and some crunchy vegetables such as tomatoes or cucumbers usually accompany the plate.
History of Nohutlu Pilav

Nohutlu Pilav, also known as “chickpea rice,” is a classic dish from Turkish cuisine. It is believed to have originated in the Ottoman Empire and is a staple in Turkish homes and restaurants. The dish consists of rice cooked with chickpeas, along with a variety of spices and herbs such as onion, parsley, and dill. The chickpeas are typically cooked until tender and then added to the rice along with the spices and herbs, giving the dish its distinct flavor.
Traditionally, Nohutlu Pilav is served as a side dish, but it can also be enjoyed as a main course, particularly as an accompaniment to meat dishes. The dish is considered a comfort food and is often served at family gatherings and special occasions.
In addition to its popularity in Turkey, Nohutlu Pilav is also widely consumed in other Middle Eastern countries and regions, such as in the Caucasus, Central Asia and the Balkans, each with their own version and twist on this dish. The dish has also been adopted by different communities and can be found around the world, reflecting the diversity and richness of Turkish cuisine.
Health Benefits

As well as being delicious, Nohutlu Pilav also offers numerous health benefits thanks to its nutritious ingredients. Chickpeas contain high amounts of fiber which helps maintain healthy gut bacteria while also helping to reduce cholesterol levels in the body. Basmati rice contains vitamins B6 & E, which are essential for healthy skin & hair development while also promoting good vision & protection against oxidative stress caused by free radicals in our bodies. So not only does this meal taste great, but it can help keep us healthy too!
Conclusion:
Nohutlu Pilav is a classic Turkish dish that remains incredibly popular today due to its fantastic flavor combination and health benefits associated with its key ingredients -basmati rice & chickpeas-. It’s easy to make following our simple steps above; all you need are basic store cupboard staples like butter/margarine, olive oil, etc., plus some fresh veg like onions & garlic if desired! So why not give this tasty traditional meal a go? You won’t regret it!
Nohutlu Pilav Recipe: Pinterest.co.uk