Freekeh with cream is a Middle Eastern dish with a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.
To make this dish, you will need a few key ingredients. You will need some vegetable oil, freekeh, chicken stock, butter, onion, mushrooms, cooking cream, parmesan cheese, salt and pepper, garlic powder (optional), and parsley for garnish.
What Is Freekeh?
Freekeh is a type of grain that is commonly used in Middle Eastern and North African cuisine. It is made from young green wheat, roasted and cracked. This gives it a smoky, nutty taste.
Freekeh is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. It can be used as a substitute for rice or quinoa, and can also be added to soups, stews, and salads. It can even be used to make a delicious breakfast porridge.
The Origins of Freekeh
Freekeh has been a staple food in the Middle East, where it has been consumed for centuries. It was a popular food among Bedouin tribes, who would roast the green wheat over open fires and then pound it into a coarse meal to make porridge or soup.
Today, freekeh is gaining popularity in other parts of the world, including the United States and Europe. It is being touted as a superfood because of its high nutritional content and low glycemic index.
Health Benefits of Freekeh
First and foremost, freekeh is an excellent source of fiber. One cup of freekeh contains over 9 grams of fiber. This can help to keep you feeling fuller for longer, and can also aid in maintaining healthy bowel movements.
Freekeh is also a great source of protein. With over 12 grams of protein per cup, freekeh can help to support muscle growth and repair.
In addition, freekeh is also packed with important vitamins and minerals. It is rich in iron, which is essential for healthy blood flow, and also contains calcium, magnesium, and zinc. These minerals are important for maintaining strong bones and teeth, and can also help to support a healthy immune system.
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil
- 1 cup of freekeh
- 1 ½ cups of chicken stock
- 50 gr of butter
- 1 finely diced small onion
- 1 finely diced cup of mushrooms
- ½ cup of cooking cream
- 1/3 cup of parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Garlic powder (optional)
- Parsley for garnishing
How to Make Freekeh with Cream?
- First, soak the freekeh in plain water for about 10 minutes. Then, rinse it good. Put some oil in a pan and add the freekeh. Stir it around over high heat. Pour in chicken broth and let it boil. Turn the heat down and cook it for about 15-20 minutes. If it’s not done, add a little water.
- While that’s cooking, melt butter in a pan and add the onions. Cook them until they’re soft and clear. Then, put in the mushrooms and cook them together. Add salt and pepper.
- When the freekeh is ready, mix the onions and mushrooms with it. Pour in some cream and turn up the heat a bit. When it starts to bubble, add the Parmesan cheese and stir it all together.
- To serve, put some parsley on top. That’s it!
Pairing Freekeh with Cream with Other Dishes
- Roasted vegetables – this is a great side dish to pair with freekeh and cream. The cream adds richness to the dish, while the freekeh provides a nutty flavor and a satisfying texture.
- Grilled chicken – grilled chicken is another great option to pair with freekeh and cream. The smoky flavor of the chicken complements the nuttiness of the freekeh, while the cream adds a touch of richness to the dish.
- Spicy sausage – for a dish with a kick, try pairing it with spicy sausage. The cream helps to cool down the spiciness of the sausage, while the freekeh provides a nice contrast in texture.
Storing and Reheating
It is important to keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help prevent any bacteria from growing and keep the dish fresh for up to three days.
When reheating it, I recommend doing so on the stovetop over low heat. This will help prevent the cream from separating or curdling. You can also add a splash of milk or cream to the dish to help bring it back to its original consistency.
It is important to note that reheating in the microwave may cause the cream to separate and the dish to become watery. If you must use the microwave, be sure to stir the dish frequently and add a little bit of milk or cream as needed.
Tips for Perfect Freekeh with Cream
- Use high-quality ingredients: The quality of the freekeh and cream can make a big difference in the final dish. Look for fresh, whole-grain freekeh and use high-fat cream for the best results.
- Cook the freekeh properly: Make sure to follow the instructions on the package for cooking the freekeh. Overcooked or undercooked freekeh can affect the texture and flavor of the dish.
- Add the cream at the right time: Add the cream to the freekeh after it has finished cooking and has been drained. This will ensure that the cream doesn’t curdle or separate.
- Season to taste: This dish can be a bit bland on its own, so don’t be afraid to add some salt, pepper, or other seasonings to taste.
- Serve immediately: Freekeh with cream is best served fresh and hot. If you need to reheat leftovers, add a splash of cream or milk to help revive the creaminess.
Conclusion
I have thoroughly enjoyed exploring the world of freekeh with cream. This dish is a perfect blend of healthy and delicious, making it a great addition to any meal.
One of the things I love most about it is its versatility. It can be served as a side dish, a main course, or even as a dessert. Additionally, it can be paired with a variety of different ingredients, such as fruits, nuts, and spices, to create unique and flavorful dishes.
Overall, I highly recommend giving freekeh with cream a try. Not only is it a healthy and delicious dish, but it is also easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. So why not give it a try and see for yourself?
Did you know? Freekeh with cream can be a great side dish to kofta with potatoes and tomatoes.
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