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Bulgur "risotto" with Spinach and Bacon

3.6

(10)

Who knew bulgur could be such a great substitute for rice in risotto? And without all that stirring. No, bulgur won’t replace Arborio rice anytime soon—but you’ll be surprised at how good it can be.

Recipe information

  • Total Time

    35 min

  • Yield

    Makes 2 or 3 (main course) servings

Ingredients

1 medium onion, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 cup coarse (No. 3) bulgur
2 cups chicken broth
1 3/4 cups water
1/4 pound sliced bacon, chopped
6 cups baby spinach (4 ounces), trimmed
1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Cook onion in oil in a 2-quart heavy saucepan over moderate heat, stirring, until softened. Add garlic and cook, stirring, 30 seconds.

    Step 2

    Add bulgur, broth, and water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, until bulgur is tender and creamy (like risotto), about 20 minutes.

    Step 3

    While bulgur is simmering, cook bacon in a skillet over moderate heat, stirring, until crisp, then drain on paper towels.

    Step 4

    Stir spinach into bulgur until wilted, then stir in parmesan, half of bacon, and salt and pepper to taste.

    Step 5

    Serve "risotto" sprinkled with remaining bacon.

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