In the heart of Central Asia is the country of Uzbekistan. Farro* (not gluten-fee) is an ancient wheat. Feel free to use any type of rice instead. Layer each ingredient in the pot as listed.
Serves 6
soak farro 8-12 hours
3 Tbs. (45 ml) coconut oil or ghee, or a mix of both
1 Tbs. (15 g) each: group turmeric and cumin seeds
3 organic onions, thinly sliced
black pepper to taste
1 cup (240 ml) water
3 organic carrots, julienned cut
1/2 cup (100 g) organic raisins
pinch of saffron threads
1 small organic pumpkin or winter squash, peeled, seeded, cut into 1/2-inch (12 mm) cubes
1 1/2 cups (200-300 g) farro, soaked in 4 cups (960 ml) water
(a) or rice, rinsed
1. Warm the oil in a large pot or cast iron Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the cumin seeds and stir around for a minute.
3. Add the onions, turmeric, black pepper.
4. Sauté until onions are slightly golden, 7-10 minutes.
5. Pour water over the onions.
6. Add the carrots in single layer.
7. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, cook covered 7 minutes or until carrots are soft.
8. Bring to a boil, 2 cups (480 ml) water in a small pot or kettle. Keep it hot.
9. Increase the heat in the pot to medium.
10. Scatter the raisins and saffron in a even layer over the carrots.
11. Scatter the pumpkin/winter squash.
12. Top with the farro/rice, arranging in even layer.
13. Carefully, pour the boiling water on top. Do not disturb the layers.
14. Bring the pilaf mixture to a simmer.
15. Cover, reduce to low, and cook undisturbed for 30 minutes.
16. Open the lid, place a kitchen towel over the pot, and place the lid on top of it.
17. Turn off the heat and let it sit undisturbed for 15 minutes.
18. Gently toss the layers and serve hot.
19. It will keep in the refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
(a) Reheat over low heat, covered, until warm.
-modified Simply Vibrant
Farro:
- use in salads, soups, add to backing mix, and other dishes
- great source of fiber and plant-based protein
- promotes heart health
- anti-oxidant properties
- boost the immunity
- rich in iron, protein, fiber, B-vitamins
- helps in the treatment of diabetes
- promotes weight loss
- contains lost of nutrients
