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.


Loya Mumbai Marks Anniversary with Himachali Dessert Akotri on Menu

Loya Mumbai Marks Anniversary with Himachali Dessert Akotri on Menu

By Hariharan U

Published on May 27, 2026

As Loya Mumbai marks a year of culinary storytelling, the restaurant continues its journey of exploring lesser-known dishes from the northern heartlands of India through its anniversary menu.

At the centre of this celebration is Akotri, a traditional Himachali breakfast dish reinterpreted as a dessert, reflecting Loya’s signature approach of blending heritage with contemporary presentation.

Originally a humble buckwheat pancake from Himachal Pradesh, Akotri is reimagined at Loya using ingredients such as buckwheat, coconut milk, jaggery, rabdi, and saffron. The result is a dessert that balances earthy depth with soft sweetness, offering a comforting yet refined finish to the dining experience.

The dish remains rooted in simplicity while introducing layered textures and subtle richness, paying tribute to the culinary traditions passed down through generations in the Himalayan region.

As part of its anniversary menu, Loya continues to spotlight regional Indian flavours that are often underrepresented, presenting them through a modern fine-dining perspective while preserving their cultural identity.

The Akotri dessert reflects the restaurant’s larger philosophy, bringing forgotten or lesser-known recipes into contemporary relevance without losing their essence. At Loya, each dish is designed not just as a preparation, but as a narrative rooted in place, memory, and tradition.


Haldiram's Revives Summer Nostalgia with ‘The Great Summer Chillers’ Campaign

Haldiram's Revives Summer Nostalgia with ‘The Great Summer Chillers’ Campaign

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 27, 2026

Haldiram's has launched ‘The Great Summer Chillers’ campaign, introducing a refreshing range of nostalgic beverages and seasonal food favourites inspired by India’s timeless summer traditions. Designed around flavours deeply associated with Indian summers, the campaign brings back memories of cooling drinks and familiar street-style favourites that generations have enjoyed over the years.

For many Indians, summer has always been linked with traditional beverages and flavours that provide comfort during the scorching heat. Through this campaign, Haldiram's aims to recreate those memorable experiences by pairing refreshing drinks with classic food favourites that reflect a distinctly Indian summer experience.

Leading the range is Mango Lassi, bringing back the familiar creamy comfort associated with homemade summer afternoons. Kacha Aam Panna also returns as one of the standout offerings with its timeless balance of sweet and tangy flavours. The menu further includes Jamun Kala Khatta with Soda, Sweet Tamarind with Soda, Masala Soda Lemonade, Masala Sikanji, Peach Iced Tea with Soda, and Dark Roast Cold Coffee.

Adding to the seasonal experience, Haldiram's has also included street-style classics such as Jhalmuri and Bhelpuri, continuing flavours customers have enjoyed over the years. Summer-special meal additions include Mango Shrikhand, Elaichi Shrikhand, Dakshin Curd Rice, and Mishti Doi, offering refreshing and comforting choices for the season.

Speaking about the initiative, the brand highlighted that the campaign was designed to help customers reconnect with memorable summer moments and relive familiar experiences with friends and family through nostalgic flavours.

Customers can experience ‘The Great Summer Chillers’ at Haldiram's outlets or order online through Swiggy and Zomato.


Ironhill India Unveils a Fresh New Menu Packed with Comfort and Bold Flavours

Ironhill India Unveils a Fresh New Menu Packed with Comfort and Bold Flavours

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 27, 2026

Ironhill India has rolled out a refreshed menu that brings together comfort food, bold flavours, and creative culinary touches. Designed to pair seamlessly with Ironhill’s craft beers and signature cocktails, the new menu combines global inspirations with familiar local favourites, creating a dining experience that feels exciting yet comforting.

The updated spread features a range of dishes perfect for sharing and enjoying over conversations. Seafood lovers can look forward to the crispy and flavour-packed Prawn Koliwada, while the Venezuelan Avocado Chicken Salad adds a fresh and creamy balance to the menu. Comfort food also gets its moment with the hearty Keema Pav, while the Mezze Board creates a laid-back experience ideal for social dining.

One of the highlights of the new additions is the Mutton Donne Biryani, a dish rich in aroma and deeply rooted in local flavours. Bringing together tradition and soul, it stands out as one of the menu’s most memorable offerings. Ending the experience on a sweet note is the Jaggery Brûlée with Red Velvet, adding a rich and indulgent finish.

Created with thoughtful flavours and versatility in mind, the menu has been designed for every occasion, whether it is a quick catch-up, a relaxed meal with friends, or long conversations that stretch into the evening.

  • What: New menu at Ironhill.
  • Where: Ironhill Marathahalli, Sy no 90, 7 & 90/8, Marathahalli - Sarjapur Outer Ring Rd, beside Radisson Blu, Marathahalli, Bengaluru.
  • Ironhill South Forum, 4th floor, Cross Metro Station, Forum South, Anjanadri Layout, Konanakunte, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560062.

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