Turkish cuisine has a way of transforming simple, everyday ingredients into rich, comforting meals—and nohutlu bulgur pilav tarifi is a perfect example. This chickpea bulgur pilaf is hearty, nutritious, and surprisingly versatile. Whether served as a main dish or a flavorful side, it holds a special place in Turkish home kitchens.
This guide walks you through everything: ingredients, variations, health benefits, storage tips, and step-by-step instructions—all uniquely crafted for American kitchens, while staying true to its Turkish roots.
Learn more about how we use bulgur in other comforting dishes like our recipe for bulgur pilaf or explore other traditional side recipes.
What Is Chickpea Bulgur Pilaf?
Chickpea bulgur pilaf is a traditional dish made with coarse bulgur wheat and boiled chickpeas. Flavored with tomato paste, sautéed vegetables, and spices, it’s a staple in Turkish households. It’s budget-friendly, easy to prepare, and works wonderfully as both a vegetarian main or an accompaniment to grilled meats.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Choosing the Right Bulgur for Pilaf
To make a proper nohutlu bulgur pilav tarifi, you need coarse bulgur (pilavlık bulgur). It cooks evenly and retains a chewy, firm texture.
| Bulgur Type | Best Use | Suitable for Pilaf |
|---|---|---|
| Fine | Salads, kısır | ❌ |
| Medium | Fillings, köftes | ⚠️ Somewhat |
| Coarse | Pilafs and mains | ✅ Absolutely |
Check out our take on a classic turkish bulgur wheat pilaf recipe for a perfect base to start from.
Chickpeas: Dried vs. Canned
- Dried chickpeas: Soak overnight and cook until soft
- Canned chickpeas: Rinse and drain; convenient and quick
Tip: Save a few spoonfuls of chickpea water to stir in with the broth for added flavor.
Complete Ingredient List
- 2 cups coarse bulgur
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas
- 1 large onion (diced)
- 1 red + 1 green pepper
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 large tomato (grated)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
- 4 cups hot water or broth
- Salt, black pepper, paprika, optional cumin or mint
How to Make Nohutlu Bulgur Pilaf
Prepare the Bulgur
Rinse the bulgur well to remove dust. There’s no need to soak coarse bulgur before cooking.
Cooking Steps
- In a pot, heat olive oil and butter. Add diced onions and sauté until translucent.
- Add chopped peppers, cook 2–3 minutes.
- Mix in tomato paste and grated tomato, cooking for another few minutes.
- Stir in the rinsed bulgur and sauté briefly.
- Fold in the chickpeas and pour in hot water or broth.
- Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and optional spices.
- Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 15–18 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and let it rest, covered, for 10 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork before serving.
Looking for a similar dish with a twist? Don’t miss our nohutlu pilav variation made with rice instead of bulgur.
Variations to Try
Vegan or Vegetarian Version
- Use only olive oil
- Add sautéed vegetables like carrots or mushrooms
- Use vegetable broth
- Finish with fresh herbs or lemon zest
Meat or Chicken Additions
- Add shredded boiled chicken or seared beef cubes
- Cook meat with onions at the beginning
- Use chicken or beef broth for deeper flavor
| Version | Additions | Broth Suggestion |
|---|---|---|
| Vegan | Vegetables, herbs | Veggie broth |
| Chicken | Shredded chicken | Chicken broth |
| Meat | Beef cubes | Beef broth |
Spicy or Olive Oil-Based Versions
- Use Urfa pepper or Aleppo chili for a smoky, hot version
- Aegean-style: Add zucchini, finish with lemon juice, serve chilled
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With
Traditional Combinations
- Grilled meats
- Chicken and dumpling casserole
- White bean stew (kuru fasulye)
- Roasted eggplant or peppers
- Turkish-style yogurt dip (cacık)
Salads & Mezes
- Shepherd’s salad with lemon and olive oil
- Hummus or baba ghanoush
- Marinated olives
- Labneh with herbs
Menu Ideas
| Menu Type | Main Course | Sides |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional | Chickpea bulgur pilaf | White beans, cacık, salad |
| Light | Vegan version | Meze platter, lemon yogurt |
| Hearty | Chicken pilaf | Grilled veggies, pickled peppers |
Looking for dessert? Try our raspberry lemon breeze for a refreshing finish to a hearty Turkish meal.
Health Benefits of Chickpea Bulgur Pilaf
Why Bulgur Is a Smart Carb
| Nutrient | Amount per 100g cooked |
|---|---|
| Calories | 83 kcal |
| Fiber | 4.5g |
| Protein | 3.1g |
| Fat | 0.2g |
Bulgur is a whole grain with a low glycemic index, excellent for digestive health and blood sugar control.
Nutritional Value of Chickpeas
- High in protein
- Rich in iron, magnesium, and folate
- Adds fiber and flavor
- Promotes long-lasting fullness
Great for Dieters
With moderate calories, low fat, and high fiber, this dish is ideal for clean eating, meal prepping, or plant-based diets.
Storage and Reheating
How Long Can You Keep It?
| Storage Method | Shelf Life | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3–4 days | Airtight container |
| Freezer | Up to 1 month | Cool fully before freezing |
Best Reheating Methods
- Stovetop: Add 2–3 tablespoons water, reheat covered over low
- Microwave: Cover with damp towel, heat for 1–2 minutes
Check out how to pair with cooked meats in advance using our how to cook boneless short ribs in a pan guide.
Common Mistakes & Pro Tips
Avoiding Mushy or Dry Pilaf
| Issue | Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Too mushy | Too much liquid | Use 1:2 bulgur-to-water ratio |
| Too firm | Insufficient water | Add splash of hot water |
| Sticky | Over-stirring | Stir only once before simmering |
Spicing Correctly
- 1.5 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- Optional: ½ tsp cumin or mint
Regional & Modern Variations
Southeastern Turkey
- Spicy, cooked in tail fat or butter
- Heavy tomato flavor, paired with meat or pickled vegetables
Aegean Style
- Light, lemony, served cold
- Made with olive oil, peas, or zucchini
Modern Takes
- Served with avocado, roasted mushrooms
- Plated in rings, topped with herbs or pomegranate seeds
Want more modern Turkish recipes? Try our vegan oatmeal cookies for a healthy dessert twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best type of bulgur for Turkish pilaf?
Coarse bulgur holds its shape and provides a firm, fluffy texture.
How do you make bulgur pilaf with chickpeas?
Sauté onions and peppers, add tomato paste and bulgur, fold in chickpeas, then cook with broth until fluffy.
What dishes go well with bulgur pilaf?
Grilled meats, stews, salads, yogurt dips, and roasted vegetables.
Is Turkish bulgur pilaf healthy?
Yes! It’s full of fiber, low in fat, and rich in complex carbs and protein.
Can you freeze bulgur pilaf?
Yes, it freezes well for up to a month. Reheat gently with a little water.
What’s the difference between bulgur and couscous?
Bulgur is a whole grain. Couscous is pasta. Bulgur is more nutritious and fibrous.
Conclusion
Whether you’re new to Turkish cooking or revisiting an old favorite, nohutlu bulgur pilav tarifi is a reliable and flavorful dish that blends simplicity with substance. It’s easy to make, great for weekly meal prep, and fits into both traditional and modern menus with ease.
With its satisfying texture, balanced nutrition, and timeless flavor, this is a dish that keeps on giving.
Nohutlu Bulgur Pilav Tarifi
Ingredients
Method
- Heat olive oil and butter in a wide pot and sauté the diced onion until translucent
- Add chopped green and red peppers and cook for 2–3 minutes
- Stir in the tomato paste and grated tomato and sauté until lightly thickened
- Add the coarse bulgur and stir gently for 2 minutes to coat it in the mixture
- Mix in the cooked chickpeas and pour in the hot water or broth
- Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and optional cumin and mint
- Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until the liquid is fully absorbed
- Turn off heat and let the nohutlu bulgur pilav tarifi rest, covered, for 10 minutes
- Fluff with a fork and serve hot as a main or side dish
- This chickpea bulgur pilaf can be garnished with fresh herbs or served with yogurt-based dips
Notes
- You can substitute butter with more olive oil to keep the dish 100% vegan
- For a spicier version, add ½ tsp Urfa pepper or Aleppo chili flakes
- This dish pairs well with grilled vegetables or a side of garlicky yogurt
- Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the fridge
- Reheat with a splash of water to bring back the fluffy texture of the pilaf
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