It's recipe time! Cook this traditional tabbouleh salad
Tabbouleh is a Levantine vegetarian salad known for its fresh flavors and healthful ingredients. Originating from the mountains of Syria and Lebanon, this dish has become a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine and has gained popularity worldwide. It's a celebration of parsley, mint, and bulgur wheat, dressed with lemon juice and olive oil. Let's get cooking and bring this vibrant dish to your table.
Gather the following ingredients
To prepare traditional tabbouleh, assemble one cup of bulgur wheat, three bunches of finely chopped flat-leaf parsley, and a small bunch of finely chopped mint. Add four diced ripe tomatoes, one diced cucumber, and seven thinly sliced scallions. For dressing, use the juice of two lemons and one-third cup extra virgin olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to your preference.
Prepare the bulgur
Begin by cooking the bulgur. Add it to a bowl, cover with two cups of boiling water, and then seal with a lid. Let it stand for ten to 15 minutes until the grains are tender and have absorbed the water. Afterward, fluff the bulgur with a fork and let it cool completely before mixing with the other ingredients.
Chop vegetables finely
As the bulgur cools, take this time to finely chop the parsley and mint, being careful to remove any thick stems. Next, dice the tomatoes and cucumber into small, even pieces that will complement the size of the bulgur grains. Thinly slice the scallions as well. This meticulous chopping ensures a harmonious blend of flavors in every mouthful of the tabbouleh.
Combine ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled bulgur wheat with the finely chopped parsley, mint, tomatoes, cucumber, and scallions. Toss these ingredients together thoroughly until they are well integrated. It's crucial for a successful tabbouleh that the herbs take center stage, not being overshadowed by the bulgur; they should be the prominent feature of the dish.
Dressing and seasoning
Finally, dress your tabbouleh by adding fresh lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil over the mixed ingredients. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Gently mix everything together so that all components are evenly coated with dressing. Let it sit for at least half an hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.