How to Make Turkish Bulgur Salad with Vegetables

Turkish bulgur salad, known as "kısır," is a refreshing and nutritious dish that combines bulgur wheat with a variety of fresh vegetables and herbs. This salad is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavors, making it a perfect choice for a light meal or a side dish. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious Turkish bulgur salad with vegetables.

Ingredients

To make Turkish bulgur salad, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 1 cup fine bulgur wheat
  • 1 ½ cups hot water
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 2 tomatoes, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 1 bunch fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 bunch fresh mint, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bulgur

In a large bowl, combine the fine bulgur wheat with hot water. Cover the bowl with a lid or a clean cloth and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes. This will allow the bulgur to absorb the water and soften, making it ready for the salad.

Step 2: Mix the Dressing

In a separate bowl, mix together the tomato paste, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and cumin. Whisk them until the mixture is well combined. This dressing will add flavor to the bulgur and vegetables.

Step 3: Chop the Vegetables

While the bulgur is soaking, prepare your vegetables. Finely chop the onion, cucumber, tomatoes, and bell pepper. Make sure to finely chop the parsley and mint as well. Fresh herbs are essential for adding brightness to the dish.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Once the bulgur has absorbed all the water, fluff it with a fork. Then, add the chopped vegetables and herbs into the bowl with the bulgur. Pour the dressing over the mixture and stir gently until everything is well combined. If necessary, adjust the seasoning to taste.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

For the best flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Serve the Turkish bulgur salad chilled, garnished with additional herbs if desired.

Conclusion

Turkish bulgur salad with vegetables is a vibrant and healthy dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side to grilled meats or fish. It’s a great option for meal prep as it stays fresh in the refrigerator for a few days. Enjoy this delightful salad as a tasty addition to your culinary repertoire!