Kısır

Background and History of Kısır

Kısır is a traditional Turkish bulgur salad that's commonly prepared in various regions of Turkey. Known for its refreshing and slightly tangy taste, Kısır has become a beloved staple at meze spreads, family gatherings, and picnics. It resembles the Middle Eastern tabbouleh but has its unique Turkish twists. Typically, Kısır is made with fine bulgur, a variety of herbs, tomato sauce or paste, and fresh vegetables. This dish is not only delicious but also highly nutritious, as it embodies a perfect balance of vitamins, fiber, and proteins.

Ingredients

• Fine Bulgur (1.5 cups)
• Hot Water (1.5 cups)
• Tomato Paste (1 tbsp)
• Olive Oil (1/4 cup)
• Lemon (Juice of 1)
• Pomegranate Molasses (2 tbsp)
• Parsley (A bunch, finely chopped)
• Green Onions (5, chopped)
• Mint (A few sprigs, finely chopped)
• Tomato (2 medium, diced)
• Cucumber (1 medium, diced)
• Salt (To taste)
• Black Pepper (To taste)
• Red Pepper Flakes (1 tsp)
• Lettuce (Leaves for serving)

Preparation

Before you start the preparation, make sure you have all the ingredients laid out and prepped. This will help ensure a smooth cooking process—from chopping parsley to dicing tomatoes and cucumbers. The vegetables should be fresh and finely chopped to maintain the Kısır's distinct texture and flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Prepare the Bulgur

Begin by rinsing the fine bulgur under cold water. Drain well, and then place it in a large mixing bowl. Pour hot water over the bulgur and cover the bowl with a clean cloth or lid. Allow it to sit and let the bulgur absorb the water for approximately 10 minutes.

2. Mix the Ingredients

Once the bulgur is ready, fluff it with a fork. Add tomato paste, olive oil, lemon juice, and pomegranate molasses to the bowl. Stir everything well until the bulgur is evenly coated with the mixture.

3. Add the Fresh Vegetables and Greens

Gradually fold in the chopped green onions, parsley, mint, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Make sure to mix them gently to maintain their freshness and integrity.

4. Season the Kısır

Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes according to your taste preferences. Feel free to add more lemon juice for extra tang, if desired.

5. Let It Rest

Cover the bowl and allow the Kısır to rest at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes. This resting period helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

How to Serve and Enjoy Kısır

Kısır can be served cold or at room temperature. To enhance its presentation, line a serving plate with crisp lettuce leaves and gently scoop the Kısır onto the plate. You can serve it as a standalone dish or as part of a meze platter, accompanied by other Turkish delights. Kısır is versatile; pair it with grilled meats, or enjoy it with crusty bread and feta cheese. It's perfect for picnics, potlucks, or any occasion when you want to serve something light yet flavorful.

Nutritionally, Kısır is a great way to indulge in healthy eating as it offers a good mix of carbohydrates, dietary fiber, and essential vitamins. With its vibrant flavors and appetizing colors, Kısır is sure to be a hit at your table.

For a precise cooking time, set your cooking timer to ensure each step is followed meticulously. Enjoy the refreshing taste of this Turkish classic!