Tabbouleh
Lebanese Tabbouleh is a refreshing and healthy salad that has been a staple in Lebanese cuisine for centuries. It is packed with fresh herbs, vegetables, and grains, making it a perfect side dish or a light meal on its own.
The origins of Tabbouleh can be traced back to the Eastern Mediterranean region, where it was eaten by nomadic tribes as a portable food. The name Tabbouleh comes from the Arabic word ‘tabil’, which means seasoning, and it was traditionally made with bulgur wheat as the base ingredient.
Today, Tabbouleh has evolved to include different variations, including vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free versions, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this delicious salad. One key ingredient that sets Lebanese Tabbouleh apart from other versions is the generous amount of parsley used, which gives it a unique flavor and aroma.
Traditionally, Lebanese Tabbouleh is prepared using a mortar and pestle to chop the herbs and vegetables, creating a fine texture that blends perfectly with the bulgur wheat. The salad is dressed in a simple mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper, which enhances the flavor of the fresh ingredients while keeping the salad light and healthy.
The key to making a perfect Lebanese Tabbouleh is to use the freshest ingredients possible. The herbs, including mint and parsley, should be fresh and cut into small pieces, ensuring that each bite of the salad is packed with flavor. The tomatoes should be ripe and juicy, and the onions should be diced into small pieces to prevent them from overpowering the other flavors.
Bulgur wheat, which is the base ingredient in Tabbouleh, is a whole grain that is low in fat and high in fiber, making it a healthy addition to any diet. It is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and B vitamins, making it an essential part of a balanced diet.
Lebanese Tabbouleh is an excellent salad to serve at dinner parties, potlucks, and family gatherings. Its colorful appearance and tasty flavor make it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy. It pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or vegetables, and is also delicious on its own as a light meal or side dish.
In conclusion, Lebanese Tabbouleh is a healthy, refreshing, and flavorful salad that has been enjoyed by many for centuries. Its simple yet delicious combination of fresh herbs and vegetables, bulgur wheat, and lemon juice makes it a perfect choice for anyone looking to eat healthily and enjoy some Lebanese cuisine. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a novice in the kitchen, Lebanese Tabbouleh is a recipe worth trying.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fine bulgur
- 1 1/2 cups boiling water
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 4 cups parsley leaves, finely chopped (about 3 large bunches)
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped (about 2 large bunches)
- 2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 cucumber, peeled and finely chopped
Instructions:
- Place the bulgur in a large bowl and cover with the boiling water. Let sit for 30 minutes or until the bulgur is tender and the water is absorbed.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Add the onion, parsley, mint, tomatoes, and cucumber to the bowl with the bulgur.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and stir to combine.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!