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Tabbouleh Vegetarian Salad from Lebanon
Tabbouleh Vegetarian Salad is a classic Middle Eastern salad that originates from Lebanon, offering a vibrant and fresh combination of ingredients that make it a staple in Lebanese cuisine. This salad is not only vegetarian but also vegan, making it an ideal dish for various dietary preferences. Tabbouleh is celebrated for its simplicity, yet it bursts with flavour, thanks to the fresh herbs, citrus, and vegetables that make up its core.
Ingredients
The primary ingredients in a traditional Lebanese tabbouleh include parsley, bulgur wheat, tomatoes, onions, mint, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt. Each of these components contributes to the salad’s unique taste and texture. The parsley serves as the base of the salad, and it is typically used in large quantities. The herb is finely chopped, providing a fresh, slightly peppery flavour. The bulgur wheat, a staple grain in Middle Eastern cuisine, adds a subtle nutty flavour and a chewy texture that balances the crispness of the vegetables.
Preparation
To prepare tabbouleh, start by soaking the bulgur wheat in boiling water until it becomes tender, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes. While the bulgur is soaking, finely chop a generous amount of fresh parsley and mint. The herbs should be finely chopped to release their full flavour and blend seamlessly with the other ingredients. Dice ripe tomatoes
and finely chop a small onion or a bunch of green onions, depending on your preference.
Once the bulgur has absorbed the water and softened, it is mixed with the chopped herbs, tomatoes, and onions. The salad is then dressed with freshly squeezed lemon juice and high-quality olive oil. Season with salt to taste. Some variations might include adding a pinch of allspice or cinnamon for a slight depth of flavour, though this is optional.
Serving
Tabbouleh is typically served chilled or at room temperature, making it a refreshing dish for warm weather. It can be enjoyed as a side dish, often paired with hummus, falafel, or other mezze dishes, or as a light and healthy main course. Tabbouleh’s bright flavours and nutritious ingredients make it a delicious and wholesome choice for anyone seeking a taste of authentic Lebanese cuisine.
Tabbouleh Vegetarian Salad Recipe
Tabbouleh is a fresh and flavourful Lebanese salad, perfect for a light meal or a side dish. This vegetarian salad is packed with herbs, veggies, and grains, offering a nutritious and vibrant addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup fine bulgur wheat
1 bunch fresh parsley (about 2 cups, finely chopped)
1/2 bunch fresh mint (about 1/2 cup, finely chopped)
4 medium ripe tomatoes (diced)
1 small onion or 5-6 green onions (finely chopped)
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
Salt to taste
Optional: A pinch of allspice or cinnamon
Instructions:
Soak the Bulgur Wheat: Place the bulgur wheat in a bowl and cover it with boiling water. Let it soak for about 15-20 minutes until it’s tender and has absorbed the water. Drain any excess water if necessary.
Prepare the Vegetables and Herbs: While the bulgur is soaking, finely chop the parsley and mint leaves. The herbs should be chopped as finely as possible to release their full flavour.
Dice the tomatoes and finely chop the onion or green onions.
Mix the Ingredients: Once the bulgur wheat is ready, fluff it with a fork and add it to a large mixing bowl.
Add the chopped parsley, mint, tomatoes, and onions to the bowl with the bulgur.
Season and Dress the Salad: Pour the fresh lemon juice and olive oil over the mixture.
Add salt to taste, and if desired, a pinch of allspice or cinnamon for extra depth of flavour.
Toss everything together until the ingredients are well combined and evenly coated with the dressing.
Serve:
Serve the tabbouleh immediately or chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow the flavours to meld.
Tabbouleh is traditionally served as part of a mezze platter, alongside dishes like hummus, baba ghanoush, and falafel. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a refreshing, light meal.
Enjoy this classic Lebanese salad, bursting with fresh flavours and wholesome goodness!
