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.

image

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.

image

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.


Tropika Brewing Co. Brings Mexican Flavours to Bengaluru with Mexican Fiesta

Tropika Brewing Co. Brings Mexican Flavours to Bengaluru with Mexican Fiesta

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 12, 2026

Tropika Brewing Co. is bringing Mexican-inspired flavours to Bengaluru with Mexican Fiesta, a special culinary showcase featuring a selection of dishes, charcoal-grilled specialities, desserts and tequila-led cocktails. The experience celebrates bold flavours and fresh ingredients through a specially curated menu.

The menu features a mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, including Asado Corn Cob, crispy empanadas, Goat Nihari Birria Tacos, Chipotle Bowls, Quesadillas and Chimichangas. Guests can also explore a dedicated live grill serving Chipotle Honey BBQ Wings, Mexican Chorizo Grill and Serrano Paneer Skewers.

For dessert, the spread includes Flan Napolitano and Churros Sundae, offering a sweet finish to the meal. The beverage selection adds to the experience with tequila-led cocktails such as Mexican Sour, Paloma Cerveza, El Picante and Sol de Jalisco.

Bringing together Mexican-inspired dishes, smoky grilled preparations and refreshing cocktails, Mexican Fiesta offers guests a lively dining experience at Tropika Brewing Co. in Marathahalli, Bengaluru. The menu is available from 12:00 PM onwards, inviting guests to explore a range of flavours inspired by Mexican cuisine.

Event Details:

  • Event: Mexican Fiesta

  • Venue: Tropika Brewing Co., Marathahalli, Bengaluru

  • Timings: 12:00 PM onwards.


Katha Coffee Brings Childhood Nostalgia to Its New Bachpan Menu

Katha Coffee Brings Childhood Nostalgia to Its New Bachpan Menu

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 12, 2026

Katha Coffee is bringing childhood memories to the table with its special Bachpan Menu, a playful selection of café creations inspired by familiar treats and flavours. Available at its Gachibowli and Banjara Hills outlets in Hyderabad, the menu celebrates the little joys of growing up through a range of nostalgic food and beverage options.

The menu features a mix of sweet treats and beverages, including the Oh So Ferroo Diner Pancake, Jim Jm Cinnamon Roll and Jim Jm Frappe. Guests can also enjoy the Oh So Alpenli*be Latte, Oh So Ferroo Latte and the uniquely named Rasna Espresso, each adding a playful touch to the café experience.

With familiar flavours presented in a café-style format, the Bachpan Menu aims to bring back memories of carefree childhood days while offering guests something different to enjoy during their visit.

The menu is available at Katha Coffee & Bakehouse in Gachibowli, located on DLF Road, and its Banjara Hills outlet on Road Number 3, Hyderabad. Through this special offering, the café invites guests to revisit their favourite childhood flavours and enjoy them in a new way.

Event Details:

  • Offering: Bachpan Menu at Katha Coffee

  • Venue 1: Katha Coffee & Bakehouse, Gachibowli, Sy. No. 111, 1-47/2, Door No. A/1, DLF Road, Gachibowli, Hyderabad, Telangana – 500032

  • Venue 2: Katha Coffee & Bakehouse, Banjara Hills, 8-2-351, Road Number 3, Green Valley, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, Telangana – 500082

  • Availability: Ongoing.


Beyond Chinese Food: How Japanese, Korean, Thai and Vietnamese Cuisines Are Shaping Dining Trends

Beyond Chinese Food: How Japanese, Korean, Thai and Vietnamese Cuisines Are Shaping Dining Trends

By Hariharan U

Published on November 12, 2026

Indian dining habits are evolving, with consumers increasingly looking beyond familiar Chinese menus to explore the flavours and culinary traditions of Japan, Korea, Thailand and Vietnam. From sushi and ramen to Korean barbecue, Thai curries and Vietnamese pho, these cuisines are finding a place in restaurant menus across international markets, including India.

According to Chef Pawan, greater exposure to global food cultures, international travel and changing consumer preferences is encouraging diners to explore a wider range of Asian culinary experiences. This shift is also creating opportunities for restaurants, hotels and food service businesses to diversify their offerings.

Beyond Traditional Chinese Menus

Japanese cuisine has established a presence in premium restaurants and contemporary dining outlets. Sushi, ramen, tempura and teppanyaki appeal to consumers interested in distinctive ingredients, specialised techniques and thoughtful presentation.

Korean cuisine is gaining visibility through dishes such as Korean fried chicken, bibimbap, kimchi and Korean barbecue. The international popularity of Korean entertainment and popular culture has also helped introduce more consumers to the country's food traditions.

Thai cuisine, meanwhile, continues to attract diners through its balance of sweet, sour, spicy and savoury flavours. Preparations such as Tom Yum soup, Pad Thai and Thai green curry give restaurants opportunities to introduce aromatic and flavour-driven menu options.

Vietnamese cuisine is emerging as another category of interest. Dishes such as pho, fresh spring rolls and banh mi appeal to diners looking for lighter preparations, fresh herbs and balanced flavours.

Together, these cuisines are broadening the definition of Asian dining, moving beyond a single regional identity towards more specialised culinary experiences.

Changing Consumer Preferences

Today's diners are increasingly open to experimenting with international cuisines and exploring food beyond familiar restaurant menus. Younger consumers, in particular, are showing interest in authentic flavours, interactive dining formats and visually distinctive presentations.

Food delivery platforms and social media have also changed how consumers discover international food trends. Diners can explore dishes and cuisines from different parts of the world without travelling internationally, while restaurants can introduce new offerings to audiences already familiar with them through digital platforms.

This behaviour is creating opportunities for specialised Asian restaurants, fusion concepts and premium casual dining formats. It is also encouraging established hospitality businesses to reconsider how they structure their menus and position their dining outlets.

Opportunities for Chefs and Hospitality Businesses

The growing interest in Asian cuisines creates opportunities for chefs to demonstrate culinary knowledge and technical expertise. Working with traditional ingredients, cooking methods and flavour combinations requires an understanding of the culinary identity behind each dish.

Restaurants are also exploring pan-Asian concepts that bring Japanese, Korean, Thai and Vietnamese preparations together under one dining experience. While these formats offer variety, maintaining the distinct character of each cuisine remains important.

Chef Pawan shares his perspective:

"Asian cuisine has enormous potential because every country brings its own identity, ingredients and cooking philosophy to the table. Today's diners are curious and willing to explore new flavours. As chefs, our responsibility is to maintain the authenticity of traditional recipes while presenting them in ways that connect with modern consumers. The future of Asian dining lies in balancing authentic techniques, quality ingredients and creative presentation."

For hospitality businesses, this presents both a culinary and operational opportunity. Sourcing authentic ingredients, developing specialised kitchen teams and maintaining consistency across different preparations will be essential to delivering credible dining experiences.

The Future of Asian Dining

The growing interest in Japanese, Korean, Thai and Vietnamese cuisines presents new possibilities for India's food and beverage industry. Restaurants can build stronger identities through specialised menus, authentic ingredients, skilled culinary teams and dining formats that introduce consumers to different food cultures.

However, expanding an Asian menu is not simply about adding popular dishes. Understanding regional cooking techniques, respecting traditional recipes and training kitchen teams are important to maintaining quality and authenticity.

As Chef Pawan points out, the future of Asian dining will depend on how effectively restaurants combine culinary traditions with contemporary expectations. For India's hospitality industry, this shift offers an opportunity to move beyond familiar menus and create more diverse, engaging food experiences.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.

Advertise With Us

We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.