Turkey’s Beloved Bulgur Salad and How to Make It

Turkey’s Beloved Bulgur Salad and How to Make It

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on November 6, 2024

Kısır is a cherished dish from Turkey, woven deeply into the social and culinary fabric of the country. This zesty and vibrant salad, made primarily of fine bulgur wheat, is celebrated not only for its delightful taste but also for its simplicity and versatility. 

Kısır’s roots are firmly planted in the southeastern regions of Turkey, particularly in cities like Gaziantep and Adana. With a history influenced by Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, it shares similarities with the Levantine tabbouleh but stands out due to its unique blend of ingredients and regional variations.

Traditionally, kısır is more than just food; it's a symbol of community. It often appears at social gatherings, from afternoon tea parties to family dinners, where it's served as part of a broader array of meze (appetizers). Its vibrant color and refreshing taste make it an especially popular choice during the spring and summer months when lighter, more refreshing dishes are preferred.

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The base of kısır is fine bulgur, a type of cracked wheat that is both nutritious and filling. Unlike its coarser cousin used in pilafs, the fine bulgur is simply soaked rather than cooked, preserving its slightly chewy texture.

How to Make Traditional Kısır?

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup fine bulgur wheat
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon red pepper paste (optional for more spice)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Juice of 1 large lemon (or more, to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons pomegranate molasses
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
  • 3 green onions, finely sliced
  • Salt and red pepper flakes, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Place the bulgur in a large bowl and cover it with warm water. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes until it softens. Drain any excess water and fluff with a fork.
  2. In a separate bowl, combine the tomato paste, red pepper paste, lemon juice, pomegranate molasses, and olive oil. Stir until smooth.
  3. Pour the paste mixture over the softened bulgur and mix thoroughly to ensure the bulgur is evenly coated.
  4. Mix in the chopped parsley and green onions. Season with salt and red pepper flakes to taste. (Some regional versions include diced cucumbers or fresh mint for an extra layer of freshness.)
  5. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with extra parsley or a few pomegranate seeds if desired.

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Psst! Additional Tips 

If you prefer a more citrusy taste, add extra lemon juice. For a richer, slightly sweet flavor, increase the amount of pomegranate molasses. And, letting kısır rest in the refrigerator for an hour or so allows the flavors to meld together.

With its combination of hearty bulgur, bold seasonings, and fresh vegetables, it’s both satisfying and health-conscious. Moreover, kısır is vegan-friendly, making it suitable for diverse dietary preferences.


Globally acclaimed, Time Out Market Makes India Debut at Worldmark, New Delhi

Globally acclaimed, Time Out Market Makes India Debut at Worldmark, New Delhi

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 14, 2026

Time Out Market, the globally acclaimed food and cultural market concept, is all set to make its India debut at 5 Worldmark in Aerocity, New Delhi. Announced by Bharti Real Estate, the real estate arm of Bharti Enterprises and owner of the Worldmark brand, this marks a significant addition to the country’s hospitality and retail landscape. The launch is planned for the second half of 2026.

Spanning approximately 24,500 square feet, Time Out Market Delhi will house 11 kitchens, two full-service bars, a private events room, a stage for live performances, and seating for around 500 guests. The space is designed to bring together the city’s leading chefs, restaurants, bars, and cultural experiences under one roof, offering visitors a curated taste of what Delhi has to offer.

Globally, active Time Out Markets operate in Lisbon, New York (Dumbo & Union Square), Boston, Chicago, Montreal, Dubai, Cape Town, Porto, Barcelona, Bahrain, and Osaka. With its entry into India, the brand adds New Delhi to its growing international portfolio of landmark destinations.

Curation at Time Out Market Delhi will focus on craft, legitimacy, and cultural relevance. The aim is to showcase chefs and concepts that truly define the city’s food identity. From award-winning chefs and established institutions to emerging talent and local favourites, the platform will bring together a diverse mix of culinary and cultural voices. It also presents a valuable opportunity for restaurateurs to be part of a globally recognised brand that celebrates the best of each city it enters.

The new market will be part of the upcoming phase of Worldmark’s development, which spans about 17 million square feet and is positioned as a leading Global Business District in the country. The area will include destination retail, premium hotels, modern office spaces, and thoughtfully planned hospitality and retail experiences. Located next to Indira Gandhi International Airport, Worldmark sits within one of the busiest ecosystems in the world and is expected to attract both international travellers and urban professionals. India Sotheby's International Realty facilitated the lease deal for Time Out Market Delhi.

"Time Out Market's opening in India at 5 Worldmark in Aerocity, New Delhi, adds to Worldmark's reputation as the country's most comprehensive business and lifestyle destination." "Time Out Market's internationally known concept would be beneficial for the city's international visitors, business people, and urban community. This association shows that we are committed to our long-term aim of making Worldmark as India's best business district to work, meet, eat, and do business." stated S K Sayal, MD and CEO of Bharti Real Estate.

Chris Ohlund, CEO of Time Out Group plc, added: "We expanded our growing Time Out Market portfolio by opening three new sites each in 2024 and 2025, with an additional five currently under development. Since the first Time Out Market launched in 2014, we have created, rooted in our iconic Time Out brand, a leading global food and cultural market."


The LaLiT Great Eastern Kolkata Unveils Valentine’s Celebrations Across India

The LaLiT Great Eastern Kolkata Unveils Valentine’s Celebrations Across India

By Hariharan U

Published on February 14, 2026

This Valentine’s season, The LaLiT Hotels across India present a diverse line-up of romantic dining, nightlife and cultural experiences, blending luxury, heritage and curated culinary journeys.

At The LaLiT Great Eastern Kolkata, celebrations range from the high-energy Pure Love party by KittySu at The Great Ballroom to a themed Valentine’s buffet at Alfresco featuring signature dishes, live music, sparkling wine and sweet takeaways. The Bakery adds a special dessert and beverage combo priced at ₹549.

The LaLiT Chandigarh offers a Valentine-themed buffet at 24/7, a four-course Pan-Asian set menu at OKO  and curated Indian flavours at Baluchi, all complemented by live music and chocolate gifts.

Royal romance unfolds at The LaLiT Laxmi Vilas Palace Udaipur with private candlelit dinners at Jharokha and themed dining across its restaurants starting.

At The LaLiT Jaipur, couples can opt for the exclusive Private Jharokha experience or themed buffet and Baluchi dining options on 14th February.

The LaLiT Mumbai presents Love in Every Bite, featuring XO Poolside’s luxe dinner and a Valentine’s buffet at 24/7.

In Bengaluru, The LaLiT Ashok Bangalore curates romantic dinners at Baluchi and 24/7, while The LaLiT New Delhi combines elegant dining with The Gentlemen’s Club theatrical showcase by Patchworks Ensemble at OKO.

From intimate poolside dinners to vibrant nightlife and heritage-inspired feasts, The LaLiT promises memorable Valentine’s celebrations across its iconic destinations


Garden Café to Mark Valentine’s Day with Special Curated Menu in Kolkata

Garden Café to Mark Valentine’s Day with Special Curated Menu in Kolkata

By Hariharan U

Published on February 14, 2026

Garden Café is set to celebrate Valentine’s Day with a thoughtfully curated menu and a warm, inviting ambience across all its outlets in the city. Known for its comforting flavours and heartfelt hospitality, the café promises a relaxed yet memorable setting for couples, friends and families looking to celebrate the occasion.

For the day of love, the café will be adorned with soft lighting, floral accents and subtle Valentine-themed décor, creating a cosy atmosphere that encourages conversation and meaningful moments. The garden-inspired setting paired with comforting classics makes it an ideal destination for an intimate celebration.

The special menu brings together signature favourites and festive touches. Guests can enjoy Heart-shaped Idlis, Mysore Dosa, Topi Dosa and Cheese Butter Masala Dosa, alongside popular offerings such as Garlic Cheese Pizza and Mixed Cheese Pizza. Refreshing beverages including American Ice Cream Soda, Orange Blossom, Hot Chocolate and aromatic Filter Coffee will complement the dining experience.

Sharing his thoughts on the celebration, Sandip Nowlakha, Owner of Garden Café, said Valentine’s Day is about cherishing togetherness and creating lasting memories. He added that the café aims to offer an atmosphere filled with warmth, comfort and genuine hospitality.

Established in 1968 and reimagined in 1981, Garden Café continues to blend tradition and creativity, serving generations of guests across its five Kolkata outlets, including the newest in Newtown

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