Aromatic Jeweled Rice: Middle Eastern Bulgur & Spice Blend
Fluffy long-grain rice and bulgur infused with warm spices create a flavorful side.
By Janelle
Updated: January 18, 2026
Why I Love This Recipe
In the tapestry of Middle Eastern cuisine, rice is more than just a staple; it's a canvas for culinary artistry. This aromatic rice and bulgur blend draws inspiration from the region's rich spice trade routes, combining the nutty texture of bulgur wheat with the delicate grains of long-grain rice. The careful balance of cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and turmeric creates a symphony of flavors that elevate a simple side dish into something truly special. Traditionally served alongside grilled meats or vegetable stews, this jeweled rice adds a touch of warmth and elegance to any meal.
- •Complex spice profile - The blend of cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and turmeric creates a deeply satisfying and layered flavor that's both warm and slightly sweet.
- •Delightful textural contrast - The combination of fluffy rice and chewy bulgur offers a unique and pleasing mouthfeel.
- •Aromatic kitchen symphony - As the spices bloom in the olive oil, the kitchen fills with an intoxicating aroma that will whet your appetite.
- •Naturally vegan and gluten-friendly option - A delicious and inclusive side dish that caters to various dietary needs (use gluten-free bulgur).
- •Elevates simple meals - Transforms any main course into a flavorful and memorable dining experience.
Ingredients You'll Need
Here's what you'll need – nothing too fancy, just good ingredients that work together beautifully.
- 1 cup Long-grain rice (Basmati or Jasmine)
- 1/2 cup Bulgur wheat (Fine or medium grind)
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil (Extra virgin)
- 1/2 Onion (Finely diced)
- 2 cloves Garlic (Minced)
- 1 teaspoon Cumin (Ground)
- 1 teaspoon Coriander (Ground)
- 1/4 teaspoon Cinnamon (Ground)
- 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric (Ground)
- 2 1/2 cups Vegetable broth (Low sodium)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper (Freshly ground, or to taste)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Rinse the rice and bulgur separately in a fine-mesh sieve under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming sticky and ensuring a fluffier texture. Drain well and set aside.
~5 min
Tip: Soaking bulgur for 15 minutes before cooking can enhance its tenderness. - 2
Heat the olive oil in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. The oil should shimmer slightly but not smoke. This ensures even cooking and prevents the spices from burning.
~2 min
- 3
Add the diced onion to the saucepan and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened and translucent. Sautéing the onion first releases its natural sweetness and adds depth of flavor to the dish. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
~4 min
- 4
Add the minced garlic to the saucepan and sauté for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. The aroma of garlic indicates that it's releasing its flavor.
~1 min
- 5
Stir in the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant. This process, known as 'blooming' the spices, intensifies their flavor and aroma.
~1 min
- 6
Add the rinsed rice and bulgur to the saucepan and stir to coat the grains with the spice mixture. Toasting the grains lightly helps to enhance their nutty flavor and prevent them from clumping together.
~2 min
- 7
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. The broth provides the necessary liquid for cooking the rice and bulgur and infuses them with flavor. Ensure the broth covers the grains completely.
~2 min
- 8
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference. Remember that the broth may already contain some salt.
~1 min
- 9
Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan tightly, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice and bulgur are tender. It's important to keep the lid on to trap the steam and ensure even cooking.
~22 min
- 10
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 5-10 minutes. This allows the steam to redistribute and the grains to fully absorb any remaining moisture, resulting in a fluffier texture.
~7 min
- 11
Fluff the rice and bulgur with a fork before serving. This separates the grains and prevents them from clumping together. The rice should be light and airy.
~1 min
- 12
Serve warm as a side dish. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added freshness and visual appeal. This dish pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or Middle Eastern stews.
~1 min
How Do I Know It's Ready?
The rice and bulgur are done when all the liquid is absorbed and the grains are tender and fluffy. There should be no remaining liquid at the bottom of the saucepan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amount. Brown rice typically requires longer cooking and more liquid.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this Aromatic Jeweled Rice: Middle Eastern Bulgur & Spice Blend as much as I do! It's a wonderful dish that's sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. If you try this recipe, I'd love to hear how it turned out – feel free to share your experience and any variations you tried!