Kisir (Turkish Bulgur Salad)

Kisir is Turkey’s answer to tabbouleh: fine bulgur worked into a paste with tomato paste and pepper paste, then tossed with herbs, lemon, and pomegranate molasses. It’s tangier and heartier than its Lebanese cousin, and just as easy to make ahead.

Ingredients

For the salad

• 1 cup fine bulgur
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon red pepper paste (or extra tomato paste)
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons pomegranate molasses
• 1 bunch parsley, finely chopped
• 4 scallions, finely chopped
• 1 tomato, finely diced
• 1/2 cucumber, finely diced
• Salt, red pepper flakes, and ground cumin, to taste
• Romaine or lettuce leaves, for serving

Instructions

1. Hydrate the bulgur
   Whisk the tomato paste and pepper paste into the boiling water, then pour over the bulgur in a large bowl. Cover and let sit for 15-20 minutes, until the bulgur is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
2. Season
   Fluff the bulgur with a fork. Stir in the olive oil, lemon juice, and pomegranate molasses while it’s still warm, it absorbs the flavor better this way.
3. Add the vegetables
   Once cooled slightly, fold in the parsley, scallions, tomato, and cucumber. Season with salt, red pepper flakes, and cumin to taste.
4. Serve
   Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. Scoop with romaine or lettuce leaves, Turkish-style.