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.


Novotel Hyderabad Airport Brings India’s Culinary Heritage to the Table with A Taste of Tales

Novotel Hyderabad Airport Brings India’s Culinary Heritage to the Table with A Taste of Tales

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 13, 2026

Novotel Hyderabad Airport is inviting guests to explore the rich flavours and traditions of Indian cuisine with A Taste of Tales, a specially curated dining experience that celebrates the country’s culinary heritage.

Hosted at Food Exchange, the experience draws inspiration from royal kitchens, treasured family recipes, and regional cooking traditions that have been passed down through generations. The Friday evening feast brings together a selection of iconic dishes from across India, offering guests an opportunity to discover the stories and cultural influences behind each preparation.

The menu features a variety of favourites, including succulent kebabs, aromatic kormas, flavourful dum biryani, and classic rasgullas. Each dish reflects the craftsmanship, traditions, and regional influences that continue to shape India’s diverse food culture.

Designed to offer more than just a meal, A Taste of Tales combines authentic flavours with the narratives that have made these dishes a lasting part of India’s gastronomic legacy.

  • Venue: Food Exchange, Novotel Hyderabad Airport
  • Dates: Every Friday in June 2026
  • Time: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM


Roseate House Hosts ‘Cyprus On A Plate by Coração Do Vale’, Showcasing Authentic Mediterranean Flavours

Roseate House Hosts ‘Cyprus On A Plate by Coração Do Vale’, Showcasing Authentic Mediterranean Flavours

By Hariharan U

Published on June 13, 2026

Roseate House, New Delhi, has partnered with Coração Do Vale and the Cyprus High Commission to present Cyprus On A Plate by Coração Do Vale, a week-long culinary showcase celebrating the flavours, traditions and heritage of Cyprus. The festival, running from June 11 to 17, 2026, offers guests an opportunity to experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine crafted using premium Portuguese extra virgin olive oil.

The culinary celebration commenced on June 11 with an exclusive dinner attended by food enthusiasts, diplomats and hospitality professionals. Present at the launch were H.E. Mr. Evagoras Vryonides, High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus, and Raksha Kotian, Business Head, Leads Brand Connect for Coração Do Vale.

Curated by Chef Gagandeep alongside Chef Eleni Michael, a Cypriot chef, culinary consultant and food anthropologist, the menu was designed to showcase the diversity and depth of Cyprus’s culinary traditions. Through a carefully structured multi-course dining experience, guests were introduced to the island nation’s rich food culture and time-honoured recipes.

The experience began with an assortment of traditional cold and warm mezze, including Tsakistes, Tashi, Melitzanosalata, Village Salad and Louvi Hummus. The warm selection featured iconic Cypriot favourites such as Halloumi, Sheftalia and freshly prepared Cypriot Pita.

Among the standout dishes were Patzarosalata, a beetroot and potato salad infused with coriander chutney, and Ravioles, handmade Cypriot pasta filled with halloumi cheese and spearmint. The main course highlighted Tavas Lefkarítikos, a slow-braised lamb preparation cooked with rice, potatoes, tomatoes and aromatic spices, alongside Gemista, roasted vegetables stuffed with rice, herbs and mint, finished with feta and served with herbed potatoes.

Desserts offered a sweet conclusion to the culinary journey, featuring Anarokrema, a whipped ricotta cream layered with cinnamon, filo pastry, honey and walnuts. Guests also enjoyed traditional petit fours including Soutzioukkos, Loukoumi and Daktyla, paired with Cyprus Coffee and fresh mint tea.

Speaking about the initiative, Raksha Kotian, Business Head, Leads Brand Connect for Coração Do Vale, said, “We are delighted to see Coração Do Vale enhancing the experience of Cyprus on a Plate. It was more than a dinner; it was a cultural bridge elevated by Coração Do Vale. Every dish reflected centuries of Cypriot culture and offered guests an immersive Mediterranean experience in the heart of Delhi.”

The event also marks the launch of ‘World On A Plate by Coração Do Vale’, a new culinary series designed to celebrate the food cultures of different countries through specially curated gastronomic experiences. The initiative will spotlight international cuisines while showcasing the role of premium ingredients, with Coração Do Vale Extra Virgin Olive Oil serving as a central element across future editions.

Through ‘Cyprus On A Plate’, Roseate House and Coração Do Vale aim to bring global culinary traditions closer to Indian audiences, creating memorable dining experiences rooted in authenticity, culture and craftsmanship.


Amoeba Sports Bar Introduces Knock Out Kick, a Gin-Based Celebration Cocktail for Game Nights

Amoeba Sports Bar Introduces Knock Out Kick, a Gin-Based Celebration Cocktail for Game Nights

By Hariharan U

Published on June 12, 2026

Amoeba Sports Bar has introduced its latest signature creation, Knock Out Kick, a gin-based cocktail crafted by Mixologist Arindam Das. Designed to reflect the thrill of competitive moments and the excitement of victory, the cocktail brings together playful flavour contrasts with a modern, easy-drinking style.

Knock Out Kick is built around a refreshing blend of gin, peach syrup, fresh jalapeño, citrus and tonic water. The drink opens with smooth fruity sweetness from peach, followed by bright citrus notes, before unfolding into a gentle jalapeño heat that lingers subtly on the palate. The addition of tonic water enhances its crispness, making it both lively and refreshing.

Crystal clear in appearance yet layered in character, the cocktail balances brightness, fruitiness and spice in a way that makes it suitable for relaxed evenings as well as celebratory occasions. It is positioned as a go-to drink for game nights, social gatherings and high-energy evenings at the bar.

Speaking about the creation, the concept behind Knock Out Kick focuses on capturing moments of excitement and celebration through flavour, offering guests a drink that feels both familiar and surprising in equal measure. The cocktail reflects Amoeba Sports Bar’s focus on creating engaging, experience-driven beverage offerings.

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