kisir recipe
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How to Make Kisir: A Flavorful Turkish Bulgur Salad
If you're looking for a delicious and healthy dish with bold flavors, Kisir is a perfect choice. This traditional Turkish bulgur salad is packed with fresh ingredients and aromatic spices, making it a must-try dish. In this post, we will cover everything you need to know about Kisir, including its origins, ingredients, taste, and how to prepare it at home.
What is Kisir in Turkey?
Kisir is a popular Turkish dish made with fine bulgur, tomato paste, pomegranate molasses, and fresh herbs. It is often enjoyed as a meze (appetizer) or a light meal. Similar to tabbouleh but with a richer and spicier flavor, Kisir is a staple in Turkish cuisine. This easy-to-make salad is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it an excellent addition to your recipe collection.
Kisir Ingredients
To make traditional Kisir, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup fine bulgur
- 1 1/2 cups hot water
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp red pepper paste (optional, for spice)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp pomegranate molasses
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, finely chopped
- 1 small cucumber, diced
- 1 small tomato, diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
Traditional Kisir Recipe
Follow these simple steps to make authentic Kisir at home:
- Prepare the Bulgur: Place the fine bulgur in a large bowl and pour hot water over it. Cover and let it sit for about 10 minutes until the bulgur absorbs the water and softens.
- Mix the Paste & Spices: Add tomato paste, red pepper paste (if using), olive oil, pomegranate molasses, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, cumin, paprika, and red pepper flakes to the bulgur. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Add Fresh Ingredients: Stir in the chopped green onions, parsley, mint, cucumber, tomato, and red bell pepper.
- Let It Rest: Allow the Kisir to sit for about 15 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Serve & Enjoy: Kisir can be served cold or at room temperature. Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges before serving.
What Does Kisir Taste Like?
Kisir has a unique and refreshing taste that balances tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors. The pomegranate molasses adds a hint of sweetness, while the lemon juice and tomato paste bring acidity. The combination of fresh herbs and spices enhances the flavor, making Kisir a delightful dish that is both light and satisfying.
Kisir Salad: A Versatile Dish
Kisir is a highly versatile dish that can be enjoyed in different ways:
- As a light lunch or dinner.
- As a side dish for grilled meats or kebabs.
- As a meze (appetizer) with other Turkish dishes.
- Wrapped in lettuce leaves for a refreshing bite.
Final Thoughts
Kisir is not just a salad; it's a flavorful experience that brings Turkish culinary traditions to your kitchen. This easy Kisir recipe is perfect for anyone looking to try a healthy, delicious, and authentic Turkish dish. Whether you're making it for a party, a family meal, or meal prepping for the week, Kisir is sure to become a favorite!
Give this traditional Kisir recipe a try and let us know how you liked it! Don't forget to share this post with your friends who love Turkish food.
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