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.


Mirth Cocktail Conservatory Raises a Glass to International Scotch Day

Mirth Cocktail Conservatory Raises a Glass to International Scotch Day

By Author

Published on February 6, 2026

Mirth Cocktail Conservatory is marking International Scotch Day on February 8 with an evening dedicated to the craft, heritage, and evolving expression of Scotch whisky. Positioned as a destination for both whisky purists and experimental cocktail lovers, Mirth brings together classic malts and contemporary interpretations, celebrating Scotland’s “water of life” through a thoughtfully designed menu.

For the occasion, Mirth’s mixologists have introduced a signature Scotch cocktail selection that explores bold flavour pairings while staying rooted in whisky character. Among the highlights is Pour Me A Slice, a daring creation featuring Dewar’s 12 infused with Gouda and blue cheese, balanced with honey, bitters, and cherry–hibiscus-infused sake. The cocktail delivers a layered profile that moves between savoury, floral, and gently sweet notes, reimagining how Scotch can be experienced.

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Another standout is Mango Reverie, a playful yet nostalgic cocktail inspired by India’s love for raw mango and chilli. Built on JW Black Label, the drink combines a sharp raw mango cordial with soda for freshness, finished with chilli salt for heat and texture. The whisky’s subtle smokiness grounds the cocktail, creating a bright, easy-drinking serve with a strong sense of memory and place.

With its focus on storytelling through spirits, Mirth promises an evening of refined pours and relaxed energy. As the bar continues to push boundaries in modern mixology, International Scotch Day becomes an opportunity not just to drink whisky, but to experience its evolution one sip at a time.


Maize and Malt Unveils Valentine’s Menu for a Perfect Date Night in Bengaluru

Maize and Malt Unveils Valentine’s Menu for a Perfect Date Night in Bengaluru

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 6, 2026

Maize and Malt, one of Bengaluru’s most loved date destinations, is setting the mood for romance this Valentine’s Day with a thoughtfully curated Valentine’s menu that celebrates love through flavour, comfort, and togetherness. Available from 7th Feb to 14th Feb, 2026, the special menu is designed for couples looking to enjoy unhurried conversations and indulgent dining.

The experience begins with a selection of playful yet comforting appetisers. Dishes like Love in Every Fold, featuring delicate potstickers with the perfect balance of crisp and soft textures, set the tone for the evening. Rosy Paneer Affair brings together smoky tandoori paneer, toasted sourdough, and herbed cream cheese, while Honey-Kissed Harissa Prawn offers a bold combination of heat, sweetness, and smoky depth for those who enjoy stronger flavours.

The main course continues the romantic journey with rich, share-worthy plates. Velvet Kofta Gnocchi pairs pillowy textures with a delicate cashew cream sauce, creating a comforting yet indulgent dish. Pasta La Romance reinvents a classic favourite with butter chicken–filled pasta parcels served in a velvety tomato butter base. Seafood lovers can choose Hooked on You, a char-grilled fish accompanied by fragrant Thai red curry and jasmine rice, ideal for a cosy and relaxed dinner.

Desserts strike a balance between light and indulgent. Lavender Kisses, a lavender-infused panna cotta paired with poached pear, offers a refined floral finish, while Ruby Romance Mousse impresses with its naturally pink ruby chocolate and silky texture.

Complementing the menu is a special Valentine’s cocktail selection crafted in collaboration with Maize and Malt. Romantic pours such as In Between Us, a floral and smoky gin cocktail, and Heartstrings, a soft bittersweet blend of vodka and strawberry, are designed to enhance the dining experience and set the mood for an intimate evening.

With its warm ambience, romantic menu, and handcrafted cocktails, Maize and Malt promises a memorable Valentine’s celebration, making it a perfect spot in Bengaluru to slow down, celebrate love, and enjoy meaningful moments together.

Date: 7th Feb - 14th Feb, 2026

Timings: 12:30 PM - 1:00 AM

Address: 3, 4th Cross Rd, near Whitefield, Vigneshwar Nagar, Kaveri Nagar, Krishnarajapuram, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560048


Mirth Cocktail Conservatory to Celebrate International Scotch Day in Bengaluru

Mirth Cocktail Conservatory to Celebrate International Scotch Day in Bengaluru

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 6, 2026

Mirth Cocktail Conservatory is inviting Bengaluru’s whisky lovers to celebrate the spirit, heritage, and craftsmanship of Scotland on International Scotch Day this February 8th. Known for its contemporary approach to mixology, Mirth promises an evening that honours Scotch whisky in both its classic and modern forms.

Whether guests prefer a neat pour of fine malts or enjoy experimenting with new-age flavour combinations, Mirth positions itself as the city’s go-to destination for the celebrated “water of life.” For this special occasion, the bar’s mixologists have curated a signature Scotch menu that explores bold pairings while staying rooted in the character of the spirit.

One of the highlights of the menu is Pour Me A Slice, created for those with a bold palate. The cocktail features Dewar's 12 infused with Gouda and Blue Cheese, balanced with honey, bitters, and a cherry-hibiscus infused sake. The result is a savoury and floral creation that offers a fresh take on the traditional whisky experience.

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Another standout offering is Mango Reverie, a cocktail inspired by the nostalgic pairing of raw mango and chilli, a flavour combination deeply rooted in Indian street culture. Built on JW Black Label, the drink blends a sharp raw mango cordial with soda to keep it light and refreshing. Chilli salt adds heat and texture, while the whisky’s subtle smokiness brings balance, making it playful, nostalgic, and easy-drinking.

Guests can look forward to an evening marked by refined pours and vibrant energy. At Mirth, Scotch is not just served but celebrated through storytelling, creativity, and thoughtful craftsmanship, one sip at a time.

Recognised as a leader in modern mixology, Mirth Cocktail Conservatory continues to push creative boundaries, offering innovative and sophisticated drinking experiences that appeal to both seasoned enthusiasts and curious explorers.

Address: 2nd floor, Ashok Terrace, 303, 100 Feet Rd, Indira Nagar 1st Stage, Stage 1, Indiranagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560038.

Date: 8th February, 2026.

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