Rice Pilaf with Asparagus

(Kuşkonmazlı Pilav)

3/4 cup long-grain rice
3-4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 cup water, warm
1 tsp salt
Pinch of pepper
~
8-10 asparagus; break off the hard ends and discard, break in bite size
3-4 mushrooms, cleaned, sliced
1/2 tsp garlic, minced

Garnish:
Zest of half a lemon
Dill, chopped

First saute the asparagus, mushrooms and garlic with olive oil for about 2-3 minutes while stirring constantly. Add the rice, salt and pepper, stir. Pour in the warm water and stir.

Turn the heat down to low. Cover and cook until all the water evaporates. Cover the pot with a clean kitchen towel, cover with the lid and let the Pilaf stand for about 5 minutes. Garnish with lemon zest and dill, serve.

Makes 2 servings.