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.


Faasos Introduces Paratha Burger, Blending Desi Flavours with a Global Favourite

Faasos Introduces Paratha Burger, Blending Desi Flavours with a Global Favourite

By Hariharan U

Published on November 13, 2026

Faasos, a food brand from Rebel Foods, has introduced its Paratha Burger range, combining the familiar format of a burger with the flaky, layered texture of lachha paratha. Available across 20 cities in India from November 12, 2026, the launch gives a distinctly Indian interpretation to a globally popular fast-food favourite.

Instead of conventional burger buns, the new range uses lachha paratha as its outer layer, enclosing flavourful patties, generous fillings and indulgent sauces. Described by the brand as having a “flaky outside, freaky inside” format, the product is positioned as a loaded burger experience rather than a wrap, roll or stuffed paratha.

The range features six vegetarian and non-vegetarian options across three flavour profiles: Teriyaki, Chipotle and Hot Garlic.

The non-vegetarian selection includes Teriyaki Chicken Dynamite, Chipotle Chicken Blast and Hot Garlic Chicken. The vegetarian options are Teriyaki Paneer Dynamite, OG Chipotle and Hot Garlic Manchurian.

Commenting on the launch, Mohit Mahajan, AVP – Marketing, Rebel Foods, said, “At Rebel Foods, product innovation is about finding new ways to make familiar food formats exciting for consumers. With the Paratha Burger, we have brought together the flaky, layered goodness of Indian lachha paratha with the bold, globally inspired flavours of a burger. The idea was to create something that feels familiar yet new, combining the comfort of a desi favourite with the indulgence of a loaded burger. The pilot across Mumbai and NCR is helping us understand the consumer response to the flavours that resonate the most with them. Our focus remains on expanding our offerings and bringing exciting food experiences to consumers across India.”

The flavour combinations range from the sweet and savoury notes of Teriyaki to the smoky profile of Chipotle and the sharper, more pronounced flavours of Hot Garlic. The concept builds on the appeal of familiar food formats while introducing new textures and internationally inspired flavour combinations.

Customers can order the Faasos Paratha Burger at a promotional price of ₹169. The launch also includes Buy One Get One (BOGO) offers and specially curated combos.

The introduction of the Paratha Burger adds another format to Faasos' menu innovation efforts, bringing together an Indian flatbread and the structure of a burger. The range also reflects the brand's approach of adapting familiar food experiences through new combinations of ingredients, textures and flavours.


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.

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