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.


Nepal's Jimbu Thakali Makes India Debut with First Restaurant in Gurugram

Nepal's Jimbu Thakali Makes India Debut with First Restaurant in Gurugram

By Hariharan U

Published on August 1, 2026

Nepal's popular restaurant brand Jimbu Thakali has made its India debut with the opening of its first outlet in Gurugram, introducing authentic Thakali cuisine from Nepal's Himalayan Mustang region to Indian diners.

Following the success of four outlets across Kathmandu, the restaurant has opened at M3M 65th Avenue, Sector 65, offering a dining experience centred around the culinary traditions of the Thakali community.

The highlight of the menu is the Thakali Thali, a traditional platter featuring lentils infused with the Himalayan herb Jimbu, fragrant rice, seasonal vegetables, crispy potatoes, fermented gundruk, tangy radish pickle, tomato chutney, and a choice of chicken or mutton. The dishes are prepared using traditional family recipes that celebrate the balance of flavours and ingredients characteristic of Thakali cuisine.

Beyond the signature thali, guests can explore a selection of Himalayan specialities, including Buckwheat Fries, Mutton Momos, Chicken Choila Wings, Sukuti Sandheko, Timur Chicken, and Baked Buckwheat Nachos, showcasing the bold and comforting flavours of Nepal.

The restaurant places a strong emphasis on authentic Himalayan ingredients, including Timur, Nepal's distinctive pepper known for its citrus aroma and tingling finish, and Jimbu, a rare high-altitude herb valued for both its flavour and traditional medicinal properties.

Inspired by the historic salt trade routes connecting Nepal, Tibet, and India, Thakali cuisine reflects centuries of cultural exchange while preserving its Himalayan roots. This heritage is also reflected in the restaurant's interiors, which feature handcrafted Newari-style wooden windows inspired by the traditional homes of Mustang.

Alongside its signature Nepalese offerings, Jimbu Thakali also serves a curated selection of continental dishes, catering to a wider range of dining preferences.

Spread across 2,500 square feet with an 80-cover dining space, the restaurant aims to offer guests an immersive Himalayan dining experience complemented by warm Nepalese hospitality.

Restaurant Details

  • Venue: Jimbu Thakali, M3M 65th Avenue, Sector 65, Gurugram
  • Price for Two: ₹1,500 + GST

Celebrate Friendship Day with Craft Beer and Bold Flavours at Tropika Brewing Co.

Celebrate Friendship Day with Craft Beer and Bold Flavours at Tropika Brewing Co.

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 1, 2026

Friendship Day is the perfect occasion to catch up with your favourite people over great food and freshly brewed craft beer, and Tropika Brewing Co. is making the celebration even more memorable with its newly launched Tropikal Treats menu.

Located in Marathahalli, Bengaluru, the brewery offers a lively setting where friends can come together for long conversations, shared plates and refreshing brews.

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The limited-edition menu features a variety of dishes that cater to every palate. Guests can begin with appetisers such as Peri Peri Corn Cob Ribs and Shawarma in Pita Pockets, before moving on to hearty specialities including Andhra Naatu Kodi Vepudu, Smoked Tandoori Chicken, Telangana Lamb Chops, and Ghee Roast Pomfret.

Seafood enthusiasts can also enjoy dishes like Hot & Spicy Prawns, Crab Cakes & Crackers, and the Kerala-inspired Meen Pollichathu Fillet, all paired with Tropika's freshly brewed craft beers.

Designed to bring people together over flavourful food and refreshing drinks, the Tropikal Treats menu offers the perfect setting for reunions, weekend catch-ups or spontaneous Friendship Day celebrations.

This Friendship Day, gather your gang, enjoy seasonal flavours and raise a toast to friendships that deserve to be celebrated.

  • Venue: Tropika Brewing Co., Marathahalli, Bengaluru.


Celebrate Friendship Day with Craft Beer and Great Company at Bengaluru's Favourite Breweries

Celebrate Friendship Day with Craft Beer and Great Company at Bengaluru's Favourite Breweries

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 1, 2026

Friendship Day is the perfect excuse to gather your favourite people, enjoy great food and raise a toast to friendships that have stood the test of time. This year, two of Bengaluru's popular breweries are offering experiences that promise good conversations, handcrafted beers and memorable moments.

Gladia Brewery & Kitchen

Who says dates are only meant for couples? This Friendship Day, Gladia Brewery & Kitchen invites guests to celebrate their closest friendships in a setting inspired by grand Roman architecture.

Located in Sarjapur, Bengaluru, the brewery features elegant stone interiors, warm lighting and spacious seating, creating an inviting atmosphere for everything from casual catch-ups to long conversations over craft beer.

Guests can enjoy Gladia's handcrafted brews alongside an indulgent food menu while celebrating with childhood friends, college companions, work buddies or anyone who has been part of their journey. Whether it's sharing stories or creating new memories, Gladia offers the perfect backdrop for a Friendship Day outing.

  • Location: Gladia, Sarjapur, Bengaluru
  • Timings: 12:00 PM – 12:30 AM

Brooks and Bonds

For beer lovers, Brooks and Bonds is marking Friendship Day with its seasonal Mango Beer, a refreshing craft brew featuring tropical mango flavours and a crisp finish.

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The limited-edition beer pairs perfectly with the brewery's menu of bar bites, hearty mains and comfort food, making it an ideal destination for group gatherings. Whether you're planning a relaxed afternoon or an evening celebration, Brooks and Bonds combines fresh seasonal brews with a lively ambience that's perfect for spending time with friends.

  • Timings: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM

Whether you prefer a beautifully designed brewery, seasonal craft beer or simply spending quality time with your favourite people, Gladia Brewery & Kitchen and Brooks and Bonds offer two memorable ways to celebrate Friendship Day in Bengaluru.

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