Nohutlu Pilav

🍚Nohutlu Pilav Recipe from North Cyprus – A Comforting Classic

If you’ve ever visited North Cyprus, you’ll know that food is at the heart of its culture. Among the many beloved dishes, Nohutlu Pilav – rice with chickpeas – holds a special place. This humble yet flavorful meal is a staple in Cypriot households and street food stalls, offering both comfort and nutrition in every bite. Simple to prepare, budget-friendly, and deeply satisfying, Nohutlu Pilav is one of those timeless dishes that connects tradition with taste.

Here, we’ll explore the origins of Nohutlu Pilav in Cyprus, its cultural significance, and share a step-by-step recipe so you can enjoy this authentic dish at home.
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❓What is Nohutlu Pilav?

Nohutlu Pilav translates to “rice with chickpeas”. It’s a dish made by combining fluffy rice with tender, boiled chickpeas, often enriched with butter, olive oil, and sometimes chicken or lamb for added depth. In North Cyprus, it is commonly sold by street vendors, especially near markets and town squares, served with grilled chicken, ayran (a refreshing yogurt drink), or even pickled vegetables.

The dish’s beauty lies in its simplicity. While it’s filling and nutritious, it requires only a handful of ingredients – making it accessible to every household.
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✨The Cultural Significance of Nohutlu Pilav in North Cyprus

• Street Food Favorite: It is one of the most popular street foods in Nicosia, Kyrenia, and Famagusta, often enjoyed as a quick lunch or late-night snack.

• Affordable & Nutritious: Packed with protein from chickpeas and energy from rice, it’s a balanced meal that doesn’t break the bank.

• Comfort Food: For locals, it’s a taste of home – hearty, warm, and tied to family gatherings.
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🥗Ingredients for Authentic Nohutlu Pilav

To make Nohutlu Pilav the North Cypriot way, you’ll need:
• 2 cups long-grain rice (or pilavlık rice if available)
• 1 cup boiled chickpeas (canned or pre-cooked)
• 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
• 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth (or water with a stock cube)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: shredded chicken or lamb pieces for a richer version
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👨‍🍳Step-by-Step Nohutlu Pilav Recipe

1. Prepare the Rice
Wash the rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and ensures fluffy grains.

2. Heat the Oil/Butter
In a deep pan, melt the butter or heat the olive oil. If you’re adding chicken or lamb, sauté lightly until golden.

3. Add the Rice
Stir the rice into the oil, coating each grain. Toast gently for 2–3 minutes to enhance the flavor.

4. Add Broth and Chickpeas
Pour in the broth and add the chickpeas. Season with salt and pepper. Stir once and let it come to a boil.

5. Simmer
Reduce heat, cover with a lid, and let the pilav cook for 15–20 minutes until the rice absorbs the liquid.

6. Rest and Fluff
Turn off the heat and leave the pot covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.
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🍽️Serving Suggestions

In North Cyprus, Nohutlu Pilav is often enjoyed with:
• Grilled or roasted chicken pieces
• Ayran (yogurt drink) or Cacık (tzatziki)
• Fresh salad or pickled vegetables
• A sprinkle of cinnamon or sumac for extra flavor

This combination turns a simple pilav into a wholesome, satisfying meal.
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😋Why You Should Try Nohutlu Pilav

• Healthy & Filling: High in protein, fiber, and energy.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples.
• Versatile: Can be served as a vegetarian main or with meat.
• Authentic Taste of Cyprus: Brings Cypriot tradition straight to your table.
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🌸Final Thoughts

Nohutlu Pilav from North Cyprus is more than just rice with chickpeas – it’s a dish that tells a story of community, tradition, and simplicity. Whether you’re recreating it at home for a family meal or reminiscing about Cypriot street food, this recipe guarantees warmth and flavor in every bite.

So next time you crave something hearty yet easy to make, try this authentic Nohutlu Pilav recipe – and bring a taste of North Cyprus to your kitchen.