Tabouli salad
Tabouli or Tabbouleh is a favorite Lebanese salad that is popular in the Middle Eastern region. Made with fresh herbs, vegetables, and bulgur wheat, it is a refreshing and healthy dish that is perfect for hot summer days or as a side dish with grilled meats. The salad is a mixture of chopped parsley, tomatoes, onions, mint, and seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, and salt.
The Lebanese are known for their love of fresh and vibrant ingredients, and tabouli is a fantastic example of this. It is not only delicious and nutritious but also very easy to make. The salad is typically vegetarian but can be made with chicken, lamb, or beef for a more substantial meal.
The origins of tabouli can be traced back to the mountainous regions of Lebanon and Syria. It is believed that the dish has been around for over 700 years and was traditionally made using cracked wheat, tomatoes, onions, and parsley. Over time, the recipe has evolved, and today many variations of the dish can be found in different parts of the Middle East.
The key to making a delicious tabouli salad is to use fresh ingredients. The parsley should be finely chopped using a sharp knife, as this will release the natural oils and flavors of the herb. The tomatoes should be juicy and ripe, and the onions should be mild and sweet. It is also important to use high-quality olive oil and fresh lemon juice to give the salad its distinct flavor.
One of the secrets to making tabouli is to soak the bulgur wheat in warm water for at least 30 minutes before adding it to the salad. This helps to soften the wheat and makes it easier to digest. Once the wheat is softened, it should be drained and squeezed to remove any excess water.
To make the dressing, mix together the lemon juice, olive oil, and salt in a bowl. This can then be poured over the salad and tossed well to ensure that every ingredient is coated in the dressing.
Tabouli is a versatile dish that can be served as a side dish or as a main meal. It can be enjoyed with flatbread or pita bread, or even as a dip with fresh vegetables or crackers. The salad is also great for picnics or as a healthy snack to take to work or school.
In conclusion, tabouli is a delicious and healthy salad that is loved by many people around the world. It is easy to make, and its fresh and vibrant flavors make it a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you are a fan of Middle Eastern cuisine or simply looking for a healthy and flavorful recipe, tabouli is definitely worth trying.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fine-grain bulgur wheat
- 1 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 2 cups chopped ripe tomatoes
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
- In a large bowl, soak the bulgur wheat in cold water for 30 minutes. Drain and squeeze out any excess water.
- Add the parsley, mint, green onions, and tomatoes to the bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine.
- Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled. Enjoy!