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.


Third Wave Coffee Unveils Limited-Edition Valentine’s Beverages Nationwide

Third Wave Coffee Unveils Limited-Edition Valentine’s Beverages Nationwide

By Hariharan U

Published on February 12, 2026

Third Wave Coffee is marking Valentine’s Day with a limited-edition beverage lineup crafted to celebrate connection and everyday indulgence. Launched nationwide on February 11, 2026, the seasonal range features four themed creations - La Vie en Rose Frappe, La Vie en Rose Latte, Red Velvet Milkshake, and Red Velvet Mocha Frappe - each designed to bring a playful yet comforting touch to coffee breaks.

The rose-inspired offerings lead with floral, creamy notes, where the La Vie en Rose Frappe blends delicate rose flavours with whipped cream and dehydrated rose petals, while the La Vie en Rose Latte offers a smoother, mellow sip with subtle sweetness. Complementing the floral profiles are dessert-style red velvet creations: the Red Velvet Milkshake delivers a rich, thick indulgence topped with whipped cream and velvet crumbs, and the Red Velvet Mocha Frappe combines bold coffee and cocoa with a decadent finish.

Priced from ₹305 onwards, the collection is positioned as an accessible festive treat. Available across all outlets till February 22, the range reflects the brand’s structured, insight-led approach to seasonal innovation, aligning menu development with cultural moments and evolving consumer preferences. Founded in 2016 by Sushant Goel, Anirudh Sharma and Ayush Bathwal, Third Wave Coffee has grown to over 200 cafés nationwide and continues to focus on a coffee-first experience driven by quality beans, accessible locations and technology-enabled engagement.


Burma Burma Makes its Debut in Chandigarh at Nexus Elante Mall

Burma Burma Makes its Debut in Chandigarh at Nexus Elante Mall

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 12, 2026

Burma Burma has officially opened its doors in Chandigarh, marking its 21st restaurant in India and its first-ever outlet in the city. Located at Unit No. 321, Third Floor, Nexus Elante Mall, Phase 1, Chandigarh-160002, the restaurant strengthens the brand’s presence in North India while introducing the city to authentic Burmese cuisine and its signature tea room experience.

Known as India’s only Burmese specialty restaurant & tea room, Burma Burma brings a menu that blends bold and comforting flavours. From Samosa Soup and Lotus Root Chips to Tea Leaf Salad, Tohu Mash with Paratha, Khowsuey and Burmese Falooda, the offering is both distinctive and surprisingly familiar for Indian palates. The dishes are paired with Zero Proof Cocktails and artisanal teas, creating a well-rounded dining experience.

The award-winning brand celebrates the culture and culinary traditions of Burma through recipes inspired by street food, tribal cuisine and heirloom dishes passed down through generations. The menu has been shaped by continued research and travel by the culinary team led by Head Chef Ansab Khan. Guests can explore small plates, refreshing salads, hearty mains, bubble teas, coolers, pulled teas and indulgent desserts, all crafted with attention to authenticity and taste.

Signature highlights include Samosa Soup (Samuza Hincho), featuring a crispy samosa in tangy soup with spiced black chickpeas and spring vegetables, and Mohinga Noodle Soup, the national dish of Burma. The Tea Leaf Salad made with laphet (fermented and pickled tea leaves) remains a popular choice. The Oh No Khowsuey, a fragrant coconut milk curry with noodles and toppings, continues to be a crowd favourite.

The beverage programme stays true to its Burmese Tea Room roots. Guests can choose from black, oolong and herbal teas, traditional Burmese Milk Tea, Yangon Royal Tea, Creamy Bagan Tea and a range of Iced Teas. The Zero-Proof Cocktails, recently awarded Best Non-Alcoholic Menu 2025 by 30 Best Bars India, add a modern touch. Options like Cane Glow, Pandan Royale, Yangon Sunset and Burma Sour bring cocktail-style craft without alcohol.

Desserts complete the experience with both Burmese and international selections. Burmese Falooda, Tagu Piyan, Celebration Cake, Burma Bombe and Avocado & Honey Ice Cream are among the highlights, along with artisanal ice creams made in-house.

Spread across 3,128 square feet, the 98-seater restaurant is designed by Minnie Bhatt of Minnie Bhatt Designs. Inspired by Burmese folk tales, the interiors feature handcrafted artworks, woven screens, patterned floors and warm lighting. A striking mural depicting popular folklore anchors the space, blending culture and contemporary design.

Burma Burma Chandigarh aims to become a favourite spot for post-shopping meals, leisurely lunches and celebratory dinners. With its premium casual dining format, the restaurant offers a space where guests can discover the soulful and hearty flavours of Burma in a vibrant yet welcoming setting.

Address: Unit No. 321, Third Floor, Nexus Elante Mall, Phase 1, Chandigarh-160002.


Vesparo Emerges as One of Bengaluru’s Most Romantic Dining Destinations

Vesparo Emerges as One of Bengaluru’s Most Romantic Dining Destinations

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 12, 2026

Vesparo, located in Central Bengaluru, is steadily building a reputation as one of the city’s most romantic dining destinations. Designed with intimate evenings in mind, the space brings together warm ambient lighting, curated cocktails, and a refined menu to create a setting that feels both elegant and inviting.

The standout feature of Vesparo is its rooftop, which offers breezy open-air seating and panoramic views of the city skyline. It is an ideal spot for relaxed sundowners that smoothly turn into candlelit dinners as the evening unfolds. Alongside this, the sophisticated indoor space provides a comfortable yet stylish backdrop, allowing guests to move from a quiet dinner to a more vibrant late-night atmosphere without missing a beat.

Whether it is Valentine’s Day, an anniversary celebration, or simply a well-planned evening out, Vesparo focuses on creating experiences that feel personal and memorable. Every detail, from the mood lighting to the food and drinks, is carefully put together to encourage connection and meaningful moments.

With its blend of rooftop charm and refined indoor dining, Vesparo adds a fresh dimension to Bengaluru’s romantic dining scene.

Address: KRISHVI Evara, 2018, 100 Feet Rd, HAL 2nd Stage, Indiranagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560008.

Time: 12:00PM to 12:30AM.

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