Pilaf with mussels

Name: Pilaf with mussels
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Azerbaijani, Turkmen, Uzbek
Ingredients: Long grain rice - 200 g; Carrots - 100 g; Onions - 80 g; Mussels - 300 g; Chili pepper - 15 g; Garlic - 40 g; Cumin / Zira - 1.5 g; Vegetable oil - 100 g

Cookinero 24 Apr 2025

5590

The homeland of pilaf is the Middle East and India. Today, this dish has gained popularity all over the world. The classic pilaf recipe includes rice and lamb, but the ingredients can be easily changed. Each housewife has her own version of this dish, because no one cooks it the same way. The meat in pilaf can be replaced with mussels. They will give the dish a seafood aroma, reduce the calorie content and saturate the body with protein.

How to cook Pilaf with mussels

Step 1

Cut the carrots into strips.

Step 2

Cut the onion into cubes.

Step 3

Finely chop the chili pepper and 2-3 cloves of garlic.

Step 4

Heat the vegetable oil in a cauldron or a thick-bottomed saucepan and add the onion and carrot. Fry the vegetables for 4-5 minutes, stirring constantly.

Step 5

Add mussels to the vegetables and fry everything together for 5 minutes.

Step 6

Then add all the spices and rice to the saucepan. Pour water over the ingredients.

Step 7

Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cook the pilaf with the lid tightly closed for about 20 minutes until all the liquid has evaporated. Insert a few cloves of garlic into the rice and simmer for another 10 minutes under the lid.

Step 8

Turn off the heat, remove the garlic and gently stir the pilaf. Let it cook for another 10 minutes under the lid.

Pilaf with mussels - FAQ About Ingredients, Baking Time and Storage

Can I substitute mussels with another protein for this pilaf?

Yes, you can replace mussels with shrimp, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times accordingly—chicken will need longer to cook, while shrimp and tofu require less time.

How should I store leftover mussel pilaf, and how long will it last?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent drying out.

Can I make this pilaf vegetarian?

Absolutely! Skip the mussels and add hearty vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or chickpeas for protein. Increase spices slightly to boost flavor.

What’s the best way to reheat this pilaf without overcooking the mussels?

Reheat on low heat in a covered skillet with a tablespoon of water or broth, stirring occasionally, until warmed through (about 5-7 minutes).

Can I freeze this mussel pilaf?

Freezing isn’t recommended, as mussels can become rubbery upon thawing. Rice also loses texture. Enjoy fresh or refrigerated leftovers within 2 days.

What side dishes pair well with mussel pilaf?

Serve with a light cucumber salad, grilled vegetables, or crusty bread to complement the flavors. A squeeze of lemon adds brightness.

How can I make this pilaf spicier or milder?

Adjust the heat by reducing or omitting the chili pepper, or add a pinch of cayenne for extra spice. Taste and tweak as you cook.

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