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.

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:

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.
In a separate bowl, combine the tomato paste, red pepper paste, lemon juice, pomegranate molasses, and olive oil. Stir until smooth.
Pour the paste mixture over the softened bulgur and mix thoroughly to ensure the bulgur is evenly coated.
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.)
Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with extra parsley or a few pomegranate seeds if desired.

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.

Gracia Cero Brings Mindful Drinking to the Fore

By Hariharan U

Published on January 11, 2026

Kantala Spirits has introduced Gracia Cero, a new-age beverage that encourages mindful drinking while keeping the joy of social occasions intact. Positioned clearly as not anti-alcohol, Cero supports choice, moderation, and inclusivity, giving consumers the freedom to enjoy gatherings on their own terms.

Gracia Cero stands out as India’s first non-alcoholic agave drink, created for people looking to reset after festive indulgence, take part in Dry January, or simply adopt a more balanced drinking approach. The focus remains on flavour and experience, ensuring that choosing a zero-alcohol option never feels like a compromise.

Designed to fit seamlessly into parties, work events, and everyday social settings, Cero allows everyone at the table to feel included. Whether it’s a casual get-together or a formal gathering, the drink offers a refined alternative that blends in naturally with modern social rituals.

Completely alcohol-free and sugar-free, Gracia Cero contains 0% ABV and just 4 calories per serving. Made using agave, it delivers a clean, refreshing profile without alcohol, making it suitable for those prioritising health, detox routines, or mindful living, while still enjoying a premium beverage.

The brand brings a bold approach to flavour with two distinct variants, Raw ‘n’ Wild Mango and Pineapple Piñata. These flavour-forward options add a playful yet elevated touch, challenging the idea that non-alcoholic drinks need to be plain or predictable.

With Gracia Cero, Kantala Spirits aims to reshape modern drinking culture by offering a guilt-free way to raise a glass. Free from sugary mixers, next-day fatigue, or social pressure, Cero fits effortlessly into evolving lifestyle choices where balance and enjoyment go hand in hand.

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Punjab Grill Expands Footprint with 57th Outlet in Thane

By Hariharan U

Published on January 9, 2026

Punjab Grill, the flagship North Indian dining brand from Lite Bite Foods, has marked a new milestone with the opening of its 57th outlet at Lakeshore, Viviana Mall, Thane. The launch reinforces the brand’s steady expansion across key urban markets while bringing its heritage-driven culinary offering closer to diners in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.

The newly opened restaurant reflects Punjab Grill’s signature design language, an elegant blend of warmth, nostalgia, and modern sophistication. Thoughtfully curated interiors and a welcoming ambience create a versatile dining environment suited for family gatherings, business lunches, and celebratory occasions.

Staying true to its culinary philosophy, the menu showcases Punjab Grill’s well-known repertoire inspired by the royal kitchens of undivided Punjab, age-old recipes, and the region’s vibrant food culture. Guests can expect robust flavours, slow-cooked preparations, and meticulously crafted dishes that balance authenticity with contemporary presentation.

Commenting on the launch, Rohit Aggarwal, Founder and Managing Director, Lite Bite Foods, said, “Thane has emerged as a dynamic dining destination with an audience that values quality, legacy, and innovation. With our 57th outlet at Viviana Mall, we aim to address this growing demand by offering an immersive dining experience that celebrates the rich culinary traditions of North India.”

With this addition, Punjab Grill continues to strengthen its nationwide presence, reaffirming its commitment to celebrating heritage-led cuisine while evolving with modern dining preferences. The Thane outlet represents the brand’s focus on expanding into high-footfall urban centres with a strong appetite for premium dining experiences.