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.


Holiday Inn Bengaluru Racecourse Launches CaterINN for Outdoor Catering

Holiday Inn Bengaluru Racecourse Launches CaterINN for Outdoor Catering

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 16, 2026

Holiday Inn Bengaluru Racecourse has announced the launch of CaterINN, its dedicated outdoor catering service, marking a step forward in taking its culinary expertise beyond the hotel. The service is designed to deliver hotel-style food and hospitality experiences across workplaces, private celebrations, and social gatherings.

Introduced on 14th April, 26 in Bengaluru, CaterINN aims to cater to a wide range of events including corporate meetings, conferences, weddings, and intimate gatherings. The offering focuses on delivering well-planned food and beverage experiences that balance quality, flexibility, and consistency, while adapting to different event needs.

Speaking on the launch, Kuldeep Bhure, Food and Beverage Manager of Holiday Inn Bengaluru Racecourse, said, "With CaterINN, we are extending our food and beverage offerings beyond the hotel, creating a catering solution that is both flexible and seamless." Chef Ajit Tiwari, Executive Chef further adds, “our focus is on delivering consistent quality, thoughtful service, and efficient execution across diverse event formats, while ensuring each experience is tailored to our guests’ needs. This initiative allows us to bring the essence of our hospitality to a wider range of settings and occasions.”

Mrunal Ajmera, Manager, CaterINN, Holiday Inn Bengaluru Racecourse, shared, "CaterINN has been envisioned to simplify and elevate the catering experience for our clients. From intimate gatherings to large-scale events, our approach is rooted in understanding each requirement in detail and delivering solutions that are both seamless and personalized. We aim to bring the same level of trust, quality, and attention to detail that guests associate with Holiday Inn Bengaluru Racecourse, into every off-site experience we curate."

CaterINN follows a structured yet flexible approach, focusing on smooth planning and execution. Sustainability is also a key part of the service, with the use of bio-degradable packaging, efficient ingredient usage, and a strong focus on health and hygiene. Each event is managed by a dedicated team that handles planning, coordination, and on-ground execution to ensure a seamless experience.

With this launch, Holiday Inn Bengaluru Racecourse continues to expand its services, offering clients a convenient way to enjoy its food and hospitality beyond the hotel space.

CaterINN queries can be directed to caterinnmanager@holidayinnblr.com


The Irish House Opens Ninth Mumbai Outlet in Powai

The Irish House Opens Ninth Mumbai Outlet in Powai

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 16, 2026

The Irish House has expanded its presence in Mumbai with the launch of its ninth outlet in Powai, one of the city’s fast-growing lifestyle hubs. Known for its neighbourhood pub vibe, the brand continues its growth journey by bringing its familiar experience to a new and vibrant catchment.

Powai, with its mix of corporate professionals and established residential communities, offers the right setting for the brand to connect with a wider audience. Over the years, The Irish House has built a strong reputation in Mumbai for its relaxed atmosphere, classic pub food, and well-curated drinks, making it a preferred spot for both casual outings and regular hangouts.

The newly opened outlet follows a more compact format, designed to create a cosy and comfortable space. The interiors keep things simple yet modern, focusing on warmth and an inviting setting where guests can unwind and spend quality time.

A key highlight of this launch is the introduction of craft beers on tap, marking a first for the brand. This addition reflects the growing interest among consumers for flavourful and artisanal brews. Guests can also explore a range of beer-based cocktails, offering something new for those looking to try different flavours.

The menu continues to feature the brand’s well-loved mix of European, Continental, and Tex-Mex dishes. Popular favourites like Fish & Chips, Grande Nachos, Hunter’s Penne, Irish Trash Can, and the Twisted LIIT remain a part of the offering, ensuring a familiar experience for regular visitors while welcoming new guests.

With this opening, The Irish House now operates nine outlets in Mumbai, strengthening its footprint across key micro-markets in the city. The brand remains focused on expanding in locations with strong potential while staying true to its core identity.

The Irish House, Powai opened its doors on 17th April 2026, inviting guests to step in and enjoy its signature pub experience.


Amara’s ‘Death by Chocolate’ Becomes Bengaluru’s Go-To Dessert Indulgence

Amara’s ‘Death by Chocolate’ Becomes Bengaluru’s Go-To Dessert Indulgence

By Hariharan U

Published on April 15, 2026

In a city that takes its food seriously, from iconic biryanis to cult-favourite cafés, there’s a dessert steadily building its own loyal following. At Amara, the spotlight is on one standout creation, Death by Chocolate.

While the name may be familiar, Amara’s version goes beyond the usual. This isn’t just a dessert; it’s a carefully layered experience. Built with rich brownies, creamy malai kulfi, and warm chocolate sauce, it is finished with crunchy nuts and a generous topping of whipped cream. Each element is thoughtfully balanced, delivering a texture that is smooth, indulgent, and deeply satisfying without tipping into excessive sweetness.

What sets it apart is its authenticity. Unlike many overly sugary or artificial variations, Amara’s Death by Chocolate feels grounded and real, offering a more refined indulgence that appeals to Bengaluru’s discerning palate.

The portion size adds to its appeal. It is hearty enough to share, yet indulgent enough to enjoy solo, making every bite feel worthwhile. It’s the kind of dessert that earns repeat visits, much like a beloved main course.

Open daily from 12 PM to 1 AM, Amara has quietly carved out a space as a go-to hangout for late-night cravings and spontaneous dessert outings. With availability on Swiggy and Zomato, it’s also easily accessible across the city.

Beyond this signature dessert, Amara positions itself as a premium frozen dessert brand rooted in Indian tradition. By collaborating with generational halwais and skilled sweet makers, the brand reimagines classic flavours into contemporary formats, bridging heritage with modern indulgence. Operating from its flagship store in Indiranagar along with satellite locations across Bengaluru, Amara continues to bring timeless Indian desserts to a new generation of diners.

With creations like Death by Chocolate, it’s clear that in Bengaluru’s evolving food scene, desserts are no longer an afterthought—they’re the main event.

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