Authentic Turkish Kısır Recipe: A Tangy Bulgur Salad Delight

Ingredients

1 cup of fine bulgur
1 teaspoon of salt
1 teaspoon of ground black pepper
1 tablespoon of tomato paste
1 tablespoon of red pepper paste
1 cup of hot water
1 cucumber, finely chopped
2 green onions, finely chopped
4 tablespoons of olive oil
4 tablespoons of pomegranate molasses
1 bunch of parsley, finely chopped
1 bunch of mint, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
2 tomatoes, finely chopped
1/2 cup of fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon of dried mint
5-6 lettuce leaves for serving (optional)

Steps and instructions

Place the fine bulgur in a large bowl, add salt, black pepper, tomato paste, and red pepper paste. Mix well to ensure that the bulgur is well coated with the paste.
Pour the hot water over the bulgur mixture. Stir, then cover the bowl and let it sit for about 15 to 20 minutes until the bulgur absorbs all the water and becomes soft.
While the bulgur is soaking, chop the cucumber, green onions, parsley, mint, bell peppers, and tomatoes into fine pieces.
Once the bulgur has absorbed the water, add the olive oil, pomegranate molasses, and lemon juice to the bowl. Mix well until everything is well combined.
Add the chopped vegetables and herbs to the bulgur mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Add the dried mint to the salad and mix again. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Let the Kısır sit for a while before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. You can serve it immediately, but it will taste better if you let it sit for a while.
When ready to serve, spoon the Kısır onto lettuce leaves if using, or serve it in a bowl as a side dish.

Tools for making

Large bowl - Needed to mix the bulgur and other ingredients together.
Knife - Used to chop the vegetables and herbs into fine pieces.
Cutting board - Provides a stable surface for chopping the vegetables and herbs.
Measuring cup - Required to accurately measure the amount of bulgur, water, and lemon juice.
Tablespoon - Used to measure and add tomato paste, red pepper paste, olive oil, and pomegranate molasses.
Teaspoon - Needed to measure and add salt and ground black pepper.
Mixing spoon - Used to stir and combine the ingredients in the bowl.
Cover or lid - Needed to cover the bowl while the bulgur is soaking.
Lettuce leaves (optional) - Can be used as a serving vessel for the Kısır.

Recipe variations

Add diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and texture.
Include diced cucumbers or pickles for a refreshing crunch.
Experiment with different herbs such as dill, cilantro, or basil to enhance the taste.
Add a spicy kick by including chopped chili peppers or a sprinkle of chili flakes.
Incorporate cooked chickpeas or black beans for added protein and heartiness.
For a gluten-free option, substitute the bulgur with quinoa or millet.
Make it more substantial by adding cooked chicken, beef, or lamb.
Include chopped nuts like walnuts or pistachios for added texture and richness.
For a vegan variation, omit the tomato paste and use soy sauce or tamari instead of pomegranate molasses.
Replace the red pepper paste with harissa paste or paprika for a different flavor profile.
Experiment with different citrus juices like orange or lime for a twist.

Recipe overview

Kısır is a delicious Turkish salad known for its rich and tangy flavors. It's primarily made from fine bulgur wheat soaked in a delightful combination of tomato and red pepper paste, which is then tossed with an assortment of finely chopped fresh vegetables and herbs. This salad is further enhanced by the addition of olive oil, pomegranate molasses, and fresh lemon juice, creating a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy nuances. As a bonus, it's also quite healthy and suitable for vegetarian and vegan diets. The preparation process is straightforward and offers the opportunity to appreciate the vibrant colors and fresh aroma of the ingredients. Kısır can be served immediately after preparation, but allowing it to sit for a while before serving often results in a more flavorful salad. Whether served as a side dish or a light meal wrapped in lettuce leaves, Kısır is sure to offer a memorable culinary experience.

Common questions

Can I use coarse bulgur instead of fine bulgur?
Yes, you can use coarse bulgur instead of fine bulgur. However, keep in mind that the texture of the dish will be slightly different.
Can I substitute the pomegranate molasses with something else?
If you don't have pomegranate molasses, you can substitute it with lemon juice or tamarind paste. However, the flavor profile will be different.
Can I add other vegetables or ingredients to the Kısır?
Yes, you can customize the recipe by adding or omitting certain vegetables according to your preference. Some common additions include diced radishes, shredded carrots, or cooked chickpeas.
Is Kısır gluten-free?
Kısır is typically gluten-free as it is made with bulgur, which is a wheat product. However, it is essential to ensure that the bulgur you use is certified gluten-free if you have gluten intolerances or allergies.
How long does Kısır last in the refrigerator?
Kısır can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. However, it is best enjoyed fresh.
Can I make Kısır in advance?
Yes, you can make Kısır in advance. In fact, it tastes even better when the flavors have had time to meld together. Just make sure to store it properly in the refrigerator.

Serving dishes and utensils

Large bowl - A large bowl is needed to mix the bulgur and other ingredients together.
Chopping board - A chopping board will be used to chop the vegetables and herbs.
Sharp knife - A sharp knife is essential for chopping the vegetables and herbs finely.
Measuring cup - A measuring cup is needed to accurately measure the bulgur and hot water.
Mixing spoon or spatula - A mixing spoon or spatula will be used to mix and combine all the ingredients.
Cover or cling wrap - A cover or cling wrap will be used to cover the bowl while the bulgur is soaking.
Lettuce leaves (optional) - Lettuce leaves can be used as a serving vessel for the Kısır.

Origin stories

Kısır is a beloved traditional dish from Turkey, often considered as the Turkish version of tabbouleh. This refreshing and tangy salad is a staple at family gatherings, picnics, and potlucks, a testament to its crowd-pleasing appeal. The secret behind its delightful taste lies in pomegranate molasses, a key ingredient that lends a unique sweet and sour flavor to the dish. It's interesting to note that Kısır varies from region to region in Turkey. In some parts, they prefer it spicier with more pepper paste, while others enjoy a more tangy version with additional lemon juice. This diversity reflects the rich culinary tapestry of Turkey, where regional differences can create a whole new flavor profile for the same dish. Enjoying Kısır is not just about savoring a scrumptious meal, but also about experiencing a piece of Turkey's vibrant cultural heritage.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.