Kisir (Bulgur Salad) Light, Healthy & Flavorful Vegetarian
Kisir (Bulgur Salad) – A Light, Healthy, and Flavorful Dish 🥗✨
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 | Calories: ~180 per serving
Why You’ll Love This Recipe 💚
✔ Naturally Vegetarian & Vegan-Friendly – A delicious plant-based dish 🌿
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes
✔ Nutritious & Wholesome – Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants
✔ Zesty, Tangy, and Fresh – A perfect balance of flavors
What is Kısır?
Kısır is a light and refreshing bulgur salad made with fine bulgur, fresh vegetables, and aromatic seasonings. It is naturally vegetarian and vegan, making it an excellent choice for a plant-based meal. This salad is similar to tabbouleh but with a richer savory and tangy profile, thanks to tomato paste and pomegranate molasses.
Ingredients 🥣
For the Bulgur Base:
1 ½ cups fine bulgur
1 ½ cups hot water
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp tomato paste
½ tsp salt
For the Salad Mix:
1 cup lettuce, finely chopped
3 green onions, finely chopped
½ cup pickles, finely chopped
¼ cup olive oil
1 tsp red pepper flakes
1 tsp dried mint
½ tsp black pepper
Juice of 1 lemon (or more, to taste)
1 tbsp pomegranate molasses (optional, for extra tanginess)
Instructions 📖
Step 1: Prepare the Bulgur
🥣 Place the fine bulgur in a large bowl.
🔥 Pour hot water over it, cover, and let it sit for 10-15 minutes until the bulgur absorbs the water and softens.
Step 2: Cook the Onion & Tomato Paste
🥄 In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
🧅 Add chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
🍅 Stir in tomato paste and salt, cooking for 2 more minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine with Bulgur
🍲 Add the cooked onion mixture to the softened bulgur and mix well, ensuring the flavors are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Add Fresh Ingredients & Spices
🥗 Mix in chopped lettuce, green onions, and pickles.
🫒 Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
🌿 Season with red pepper flakes, dried mint, and black pepper.
🍯 If you like it extra tangy, add pomegranate molasses for deeper flavor.
Step 5: Final Mix & Serve
🔄 Toss everything well until combined.
🧂 Adjust seasoning and lemon juice to taste.
🥄 Serve immediately or let it rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serving Suggestions 🍽
Enjoy Kısır as a light meal, side dish, or part of a mezze platter. Pair it with:
✅ Fresh greens and olives 🫒
✅ Grilled vegetables or falafel 🍆
✅ A side of yogurt or hummus for a refreshing balance
📌 Tip: If you love extra tangy flavors, feel free to add more lemon juice or pomegranate molasses!
Storage Tips 🥡
✔ Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
✔ Meal Prep Friendly: Make ahead and enjoy as a quick lunch or dinner option.
✔ Best Served Fresh: While it keeps well, the flavors are best when eaten the same day.
Vegetarian & Vegan Adaptations 🌿
✅ This dish is naturally vegetarian!
✅ To keep it vegan, check that your pomegranate molasses contains no honey.
✅ Want more protein? Add chickpeas, lentils, or toasted nuts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) ❓
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
➡️ Unfortunately, bulgur contains gluten, but you can substitute it with quinoa or millet for a gluten-free version.
Q: Can I make Kısır spicy?
➡️ Yes! Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for some heat.
Q: What if I can’t find pomegranate molasses?
➡️ You can substitute it with a mix of lemon juice and honey for a similar sweet-tart balance.
Try This Flavorful Bulgur Salad Today! 🥗
A simple, delicious, and nourishing dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
💬 Tried this recipe? Let us know in the comments!
📌 Save this recipe & share with friends!