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.

image

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.

image

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.


Where Mumbai Goes for Its Chocolate Fix This Chocolate Day

Where Mumbai Goes for Its Chocolate Fix This Chocolate Day

By Hariharan U

Published on July 3, 2026

Chocolate Day, celebrated on 7th July, is all about indulging in rich, comforting desserts, and Mumbai's dining scene has no shortage of irresistible options. From classic chocolate mousse to creative chocolate-forward desserts, the city's restaurants are serving indulgent treats that promise to satisfy every chocolate lover.

Here's where to head for some of Mumbai's best chocolate desserts this Chocolate Day.

Papi, Bandra

Papi's Dark Chocolate Mousse is a refined take on a timeless classic. Rich without being overly sweet, the dessert delivers an intense chocolate flavour with a smooth, airy texture, making it a fitting finale to the restaurant's European-inspired menu.

Torii, Khar

image

Torii's Vegan Ganache Chocolate Cake combines 55% dark chocolate with coconut milk to create a silky vegan ganache, finished with a generous drizzle of Nutella sauce. The result is a rich dessert that offers deep chocolate flavours while remaining completely dairy-free.

Harajuku Bakehouse

image

Inspired by Tokyo's café culture, Harajuku Bakehouse serves its signature Jiggly Pancake topped with Nutella, vanilla ice cream, and dark chocolate sticks. Soft, fluffy, and playful, the dessert balances visual appeal with comforting flavours.

Amelia

image

Chocolate lovers looking for something indulgent can opt for Amelia's Chocolate Bomb. Built on a fudgy brownie base, the dessert layers dark chocolate hazelnut mousse with bright orange purée and mixed berries, creating a balance of richness and freshness.

Lyla

image

Lyla's Chocolate Coma offers an interactive dessert experience. A white chocolate dome melts under warm chocolate sauce to reveal a dark chocolate mousse layered with roasted peanuts, combining creamy textures with a satisfying crunch.

Amaru

image

For those looking for something unconventional, Amaru presents the JD Matcha Cake. The dessert pairs matcha and chocolate with a shot of Jack Daniel's and chocolate bitters, bringing together earthy tea notes, rich cocoa, and subtle whiskey flavours for a distinctive finish.

Whether you prefer classic chocolate desserts or contemporary interpretations, these restaurants offer some of Mumbai's most memorable sweet experiences, making them ideal destinations to celebrate Chocolate Day.


Novotel Hyderabad Airport Launches Friday Weekend Pizza Party

Novotel Hyderabad Airport Launches Friday Weekend Pizza Party

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 3, 2026

Novotel Hyderabad Airport is inviting pizza lovers to kick off their weekends with its Weekend Pizza Party, a special Friday dining experience that celebrates the art of handcrafted pizzas. Available every Friday in July at Food Exchange, the limited-period offering combines freshly made pizzas, interactive live cooking, and gourmet sides.

A highlight of the experience is the Live Pizza Station, where chefs prepare every pizza from scratch using freshly made dough, premium cheeses, and carefully selected toppings. Guests can watch their pizzas being crafted to order, adding an interactive element to the dining experience.

image

The menu features a wide selection of classic and gourmet pizzas. Diners can enjoy favourites such as the Margherita with Buffalo Mozzarella & Basil and Quattro Formaggi, along with signature creations including Truffle Wild Mushroom Pizza, Roasted Vegetable & Feta Pizza, Pepperoni Pizza, BBQ Chicken Pizza, Lamb Kofta Pizza, Spicy Italian Sausage Pizza, and Garlic Prawn Pizza. The selection draws inspiration from Italian, Mediterranean, and global flavours.

Adding to the spread is a Root Vegetable Fries Bar, offering a variety of crispy options such as Sweet Potato Fries, Cassava Fries, Beetroot Fries, Carrot Fries, Lotus Stem Chips, and classic potato fries. Guests can pair them with a range of gourmet dips, including Truffle Aioli, Garlic Herb Mayo, Chipotle Dip, Basil Pesto, Roasted Tomato Dip, and Cheese Sauce.

Designed for families, friends, and colleagues, the Weekend Pizza Party offers a relaxed way to enjoy handcrafted pizzas and flavourful accompaniments while welcoming the weekend.

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

Top Mumbai Restaurants to Explore Exclusive Monsoon Menus This Season

Top Mumbai Restaurants to Explore Exclusive Monsoon Menus This Season

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 3, 2026

As the rains return to Mumbai, several restaurants have introduced exclusive monsoon menus designed to match the season's craving for warm, comforting food. Whether it's Mediterranean classics, Japanese hot pots, or sizzling Indian favourites, these limited-time menus promise memorable dining experiences throughout the monsoon.

Luuma House (Juhu)

Starting 6th July, Luuma House in Juhu is serving its specially curated Mezze Monsoon Menu, inspired by comforting Mediterranean flavours and seasonal ingredients.

The menu begins with the Turkish Lentil Soup, followed by the signature Lyali Beirut Mezze, which includes hummus, labneh, falafel, batata hara, muhammara, and freshly baked pita. Guests can also enjoy the Moroccan Dijaj, topped with lemon-marinated chicken, pistachio pesto, and creamy burrata.

For the main course, highlights include the Turkish Moussaka served with herb apricot sauce and the Chelo Chicken with garlic chilli sauce. The meal ends on a sweet note with the Steamed Date Pudding, served with tahini date caramel and ice cream. With its warm ambience and Mediterranean-inspired menu, Luuma House offers the perfect setting to enjoy the rainy season with family and friends.

image

  • Address: Plot No. 47, Gulmohar Road, JVPD Scheme, Vile Parle West, Mumbai
  • Timings: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM

Tokki & Tora (Andheri & Powai)

This monsoon, Tokki & Tora is inviting guests to enjoy comforting Japanese and Korean flavours through a seasonal menu featuring hot pots and ramen.

The menu includes favourites such as the Vegetable Hot Pot, Tori Nabe, Seafood Hot Pot, and the popular Korean Kimchi Jjigae, prepared with fermented kimchi, tofu, and fresh vegetables.

Guests can also choose from a variety of ramen bowls, including Miso Ramen (available in spicy and non-spicy versions), Korean Ramen, and Shoyu Ramen, all served with rich broths and authentic flavours. Whether it's a cosy lunch or dinner on a rainy day, Tokki & Tora offers the perfect comfort meal for the season.

image

  • Locations: Tokki & Tora, Andheri | Powai
  • Timings: 12:00 PM – 11:30 PM

Epitome (Lower Parel)

From 5th July to 30th August, Epitome in Lower Parel is presenting its Sizzling Monsoon Menu, packed with comforting starters, hearty sizzlers, and indulgent desserts.

Guests can begin with seasonal favourites including Pahadi Dal Wada Popcorn, Bhajiya Basket, Charred Corn Ribs, and Sweet Aloo Tikki Chaat.

For the main course, the menu features Tofu in Black Bean Sizzler and Red Pepper Chilli Paneer Sizzler, served piping hot with flavourful accompaniments. To finish, diners can indulge in the Sizzling Brownie, topped with vanilla ice cream, chocolate sauce, and nuts. Combined with its lively ambience and handcrafted cocktails, Epitome offers a complete monsoon dining experience.

image

  • Address: Mathuradas Mill Compound, Plot 242, NM Joshi Marg, Lower Parel West, Mumbai
  • Timings: 12:30 PM – 1:30 AM

This monsoon, these restaurants offer a variety of seasonal menus that celebrate comfort, flavour, and the joy of dining during the rains. Whether you're in the mood for Mediterranean delicacies, Japanese comfort food, or sizzling Indian favourites, these limited-time experiences are worth exploring.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.

Advertise With Us

We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.