Tabouli Recipe: How to Make Middle Eastern Tabouli Salad

If you’re a fan of Middle Eastern cuisine, then you’ve likely heard of the refreshing and flavorful salad called tabouli. Tabouli, also known as tabbouleh, is a classic dish that hails from Lebanon and has gained popularity all over the world. This vibrant salad is packed with fresh herbs, bulgur wheat, and a zesty dressing, making it a perfect choice for a light and healthy meal. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to create your own authentic tabouli salad at home.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (185g) bulgur wheat
• 2 cups (480ml) boiling water
• 2 cups (120g) fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup (30g) fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
• 3 medium tomatoes, diced
• 1 small cucumber, diced
• 4 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup (60ml) lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the bulgur wheat and boiling water. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it sit for about 20 minutes or until the bulgur is tender and has absorbed all the water.
2. Once the bulgur has cooled down slightly, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains. Add the chopped parsley, mint leaves, tomatoes, cucumber, and green onions to the bowl and gently toss to combine.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat all the ingredients evenly.
4. Allow the tabouli salad to sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will help the flavors meld together and enhance the taste of the salad.
5. Serve the tabouli salad chilled and enjoy!

Notes/Tips

• To make your tabouli even more flavorful, you can add some finely chopped garlic or a sprinkle of sumac spice to the dressing.
• If you prefer a more substantial salad, you can add some diced cooked chicken or chickpeas to the tabouli for an extra dose of protein.
• Tabouli is traditionally served wrapped in lettuce leaves or alongside grilled meats, but it’s also delicious when enjoyed on its own as a light meal or side dish.

Conclusion

Tabouli salad is a delightful combination of fresh herbs, vegetables, and grains that brings together the vibrant flavors of the Middle East. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can now create your own delicious tabouli at home. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing addition to a summer picnic or a healthy side dish for your next dinner party, tabouli is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the wholesome and zesty goodness of this Middle Eastern classic!