Authentic Turkish Kısır Recipe: A Flavorful Bulgur Salad
Turkish Kısır recipe
Today on TACKRECIPE, we are diving into the rich and flavorful world of Turkish cuisine with a beloved dish: Kısır. This vibrant and refreshing bulgur salad is a staple in Turkish households, known for its light yet satisfying taste. Originating from Turkey, Kısır is a popular meze or side dish, often served at gatherings or as a part of a traditional Turkish breakfast. The combination of fine bulgur, fresh vegetables, pomegranate molasses, and aromatic spices makes it a dish bursting with Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors.
Ingredients 4:
- 1 cup fine bulgur
- 1 cup hot water
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon red pepper paste (optional, for spice)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon pomegranate molasses
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 scallions, finely chopped
- ½ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ½ cup fresh mint, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 small cucumber, finely diced
- 1 medium tomato, finely diced
- Lettuce leaves for serving
Prepare the Bulgur
🟢Measure 1 cup of fine bulgur and place it in a large mixing bowl.
🟢Pour 1 cup of hot water (not boiling) over the bulgur. The water should be just enough to soften the grains without making them mushy.
🟢Cover the bowl with a lid, plate, or a clean kitchen towel to trap the steam and allow the bulgur to absorb the water.
🟢Let it sit undisturbed for 10 minutes, allowing the grains to swell and soften.
🟢Once fully absorbed, use a fork to fluff the bulgur, separating the grains to prevent clumping. Set aside.
Sauté the Onion
🟢Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a small non-stick pan over medium heat.
🟢Add 1 small finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until it turns soft and translucent.
🟢Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and 1 tablespoon of red pepper paste (if using).
🟢Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to allow the paste to release its rich flavors.
🟢Once fragrant and well combined, remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
Mix the Ingredients
🟢Add the sautéed onion and paste mixture to the softened bulgur.
🟢Use a spoon or clean hands to mix thoroughly, ensuring the paste is evenly distributed and coats all the bulgur grains.
🟢Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, ½ teaspoon of cumin, and ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat).
🟢Pour in 1 tablespoon of pomegranate molasses and the juice of 1 lemon. These will provide the signature sweet and tangy balance to the dish.
🟢Stir everything together until all the flavors are fully incorporated.
Add Fresh Vegetables
🟢chop 2 scallions, ½ cup fresh parsley, and ½ cup fresh mint (if using) and add them to the mixture.
🟢Dice 1 small cucumber and 1 medium tomato into small pieces, then gently fold them in.
🟢The addition of fresh vegetables adds texture, crunch, and a refreshing balance to the rich, spiced bulgur.
🟢Taste and adjust seasoning if needed by adding more lemon juice, salt, or pomegranate molasses according to your preference.
Serve and Enjoy
🟢Presentation tip: Serve Kısır in a large bowl or shape small portions into round mounds for an elegant touch.
🟢Arrange fresh lettuce leaves around the plate and spoon the salad onto them. The lettuce acts as an edible serving wrap, making it easier to eat.
🟢For added authenticity, serve with pickles, olives, or a side of thick yogurt to balance the flavors.
🟢Kısır is best chilled or served at room temperature, making it a great make-ahead dish for gatherings or meal prepping.
Tips
🟢For a spicy version, increase the red pepper flakes or add finely chopped fresh chili peppers.
🟢For a more authentic texture, gently knead the bulgur mixture with your hands to help the flavors meld together.
🟢If the bulgur feels too dry, drizzle a little extra olive oil or pomegranate molasses to add moisture.