Looking for a nutritious and flavorful freekeh recipe? This freekeh pilaf with leek, mint, lemon, and roasted almonds is a delicious vegetarian dish full of Middle Eastern flair. Perfect as a light main course or a special side dish.
What do you need?
For 4 people – preparation time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
- 200 g freekeh (available at Dadelskopen.nl)
- 400 g leek, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin)
- 350 ml vegetable broth
- 2 cloves garlic, sliced
- 3 tablespoons raw almonds, coarsely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, finely chopped
- A few sprigs of thyme (fresh or dried)
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and black pepper
- Optional: 100 g feta, crumbled
How to cook freekeh?
-
Sauté leek
Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan. Add the leek and sauté over low heat for 10–15 minutes until completely soft. -
Cook freekeh
Rinse the freekeh well. Add to the leek, along with the broth and thyme sprigs. Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes until the liquid is absorbed. Let stand for 5 minutes with the lid on the pan. -
Make topping
Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a frying pan. Roast the almonds until golden brown. Then add the garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes over low heat. -
Finish and serve
Mix the cooked freekeh with the mint, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper. Spoon onto a dish and garnish with the roasted almonds and garlic – and crumbled feta if desired.
Why this freekeh recipe works
✔ Healthy & filling: lots of fiber, plant-based proteins, and healthy fats
✔ Deep flavor: roasted freekeh with fresh lemon and aromatic herbs
✔ Quick to make: on the table within 35 minutes
✔ Perfect for meal prep: also delicious cold as a lunch salad
Buy freekeh?
At Dadelskopen.nl, you can order authentic Palestinian freekeh, coarsely cracked and traditionally roasted. Ideal for pilafs, salads, soups, and more. Made with care, without additives, and directly from farmers in the Jordan Valley.