Kısır is a traditional Turkish bulgur salad that is fresh, flavorful, and perfect as a side dish or light meal. It’s made with fine bulgur, fresh herbs, vegetables, and a tangy lemon-olive oil dressing. It’s often served at gatherings, as a picnic dish, or as part of meze platters.
Ingredients:
1 cup fine bulgur
1.5 cups hot water
2 tbsp tomato paste
2 tbsp red pepper paste (optional, for more color and flavor)
1 large cucumber, finely diced
1 red bell pepper, finely diced
1 green onion, finely chopped
A handful of parsley, finely chopped
A handful of fresh mint, finely chopped
Juice of 1 lemon
3-4 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: chili flakes or paprika for some heat
Instructions:
Prepare the bulgur: Place the bulgur in a large bowl. Pour the hot water over it, stir well, then cover and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes until all the water is absorbed and the bulgur is tender.
Add tomato paste: Mix the tomato paste and, if using, the red pepper paste into the bulgur until evenly incorporated.
Add vegetables and herbs: Stir in the diced cucumber, red bell pepper, chopped green onion, parsley, and mint.
Season: Add lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and chili flakes or paprika if you like some spice. Mix thoroughly and taste, adjusting seasonings as needed.
Let it rest: For best flavor, refrigerate the kısır for at least an hour before serving, allowing the flavors to meld.
Serve: Serve on a plate, garnished with extra herbs or lemon wedges.