Baxter Estate Kisir

Baxter Estate Kisir Recipe - A Delicious Vegetarian Dish from Turkey

Region / culture: Turkey | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

The Baxter Estate Kisir is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings a touch of elegance and tradition to any table. This recipe is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions, where bulgur wheat plays a central role in many dishes. Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or a wholesome family meal, this dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.

History

Kisir is a traditional Turkish salad made primarily from bulgur wheat, similar to tabbouleh but with a distinct set of seasonings that give it its unique flavor. The Baxter Estate Kisir recipe has been passed down through generations, with each adding their own twist to the classic. This version, with its inclusion of pomegranate syrup and a variety of fresh vegetables, reflects a fusion of traditional and contemporary tastes.

Ingredients

2 cups fine bulgur
2 cups hot water
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp hot pepper paste
0.5 cup olive oil
0.5 bunch green onions, finely chopped
1 small onion, cut in thin half rounds
1 bunch flat leaf parsley, finely chopped
1 cucumber, finely chopped
2 banana peppers, finely chopped
2 tbsp pomegranate syrup
juice of 1 lemon
2 tsp red pepper flakes
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1 tsp mint flakes
1 tsp cumin
romaine lettuce leaves
tomatoes

How to prepare

Put tomato and pepper paste in a large bowl and dissolve them with boiling water.
Add bulgur and 1 tsp salt to the mixture and stir once.
Cover the bowl with a thick kitchen towel and let it soak up the water for 10 minutes.
Cut the onion in half, then slice it into very thin half moon shapes.
In a small bowl, knead the onion with 1 tsp salt.
Rinse the onion with water to remove the salt and squeeze out any excess water.
Fluff the bulgur with a fork.
Add pepper flakes, ground pepper, cumin, mint flakes, oil, pomegranate syrup, lemon juice, and the kneaded onion to the mixture.
Mix well.
Taste the mixture to see if it needs more lemon juice.
Add banana peppers, spring onions, cucumber, and parsley, then mix well.
Serve the mixture over lettuce leaves and place slices of tomato on top. Serve immediately.

Variations

Feel free to experiment with the vegetables and herbs based on availability and preference. Some popular variations include adding diced avocado, radishes, or using different types of fresh herbs like dill or cilantro.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best flavor and texture for your Baxter Estate Kisir, consider these tips:

- Use fine bulgur for the best absorption and a delicate texture.

- Dissolve the tomato and pepper pastes thoroughly in hot water to ensure even distribution.

- Kneading the onion with salt helps to soften it and reduce its sharpness.

- Let the bulgur mixture cool to room temperature before adding the fresh vegetables to keep them crisp.

- Adjust the amount of lemon juice and pomegranate syrup according to your taste for a perfect balance of tangy and sweet.

Serving Suggestions

Baxter Estate Kisir is best served chilled or at room temperature. It can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish to grilled meats or fish. For a complete meal, pair it with a protein of your choice and some fresh, crusty bread.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in preparing Baxter Estate Kisir is allowing the bulgur to soak and expand properly, which is achieved by covering it with a kitchen towel after adding the hot water. This method ensures the bulgur is perfectly fluffy and not mushy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If pomegranate syrup is unavailable, a good substitute is a mixture of lemon juice and a touch of honey or maple syrup. For a gluten-free version, quinoa can replace bulgur.

Make Ahead Tips

Baxter Estate Kisir can be made a day ahead, as the flavors meld and enhance over time. If making ahead, add the fresh herbs and vegetables just before serving to maintain their crispness.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Baxter Estate Kisir in a large, shallow bowl to showcase the vibrant colors of the vegetables. Garnish with additional parsley leaves and lemon wedges for a touch of elegance.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Pinot Grigio, which complements its fresh and tangy flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Baxter Estate Kisir is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Baxter Estate Kisir contains approximately 280 calories, making it a moderate-calorie dish that can fit into various dietary plans.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Baxter Estate Kisir is a good source of complex carbohydrates, primarily from bulgur, providing sustained energy. Each serving contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates, making it a fulfilling yet balanced option for those monitoring their carb intake.

Fats

The healthy fats in this recipe come from olive oil, which is rich in monounsaturated fats. These fats are beneficial for heart health. Each serving contains about 14 grams of fat, contributing to the dish's satisfying and rich flavor.

Proteins

Bulgur, the main ingredient in Kisir, is a decent source of plant-based protein. Each serving provides around 6 grams of protein, making it a suitable dish for vegetarians looking to incorporate more protein into their diets.

Vitamins and minerals

Baxter Estate Kisir is packed with vitamins and minerals, thanks to the fresh vegetables and herbs. It's an excellent source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, iron, and magnesium. These nutrients support vision, immune function, and bone health, among other benefits.

Alergens

This recipe is free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten (though it's important to check the bulgur packaging for cross-contamination if you're highly sensitive to gluten). However, it does contain nightshades (tomato and peppers) and may not be suitable for individuals with sensitivities to these vegetables.

Summary

Overall, Baxter Estate Kisir is a nutritious dish that balances carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats. It's rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a wholesome choice for a meal or side dish.

Summary

Baxter Estate Kisir is a timeless dish that combines the wholesomeness of bulgur with the freshness of vegetables and herbs, dressed in a tangy, flavorful dressing. It's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit various dietary needs and preferences, making it a perfect addition to any meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered the recipe for Baxter Estate Kisir. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend, Mrs. Baxter, at her beautiful estate. Mrs. Baxter was known for her exquisite taste in food and her talent for creating mouthwatering dishes. As we sat in the garden sipping tea, she suddenly mentioned a special recipe that had been passed down in her family for generations - Baxter Estate Kisir.

Intrigued by the sound of this mysterious dish, I begged Mrs. Baxter to share the recipe with me. With a twinkle in her eye, she agreed and led me to her kitchen, where she began to reveal the secrets of making the perfect Kisir.

The first step, she explained, was to soak bulgur in hot water until it was soft and fluffy. As the grains absorbed the water, they became tender and flavorful, ready to be mixed with an array of fresh ingredients.

Next, Mrs. Baxter chopped up ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and fragrant herbs, adding them to the bulgur along with a generous squeeze of lemon juice and a drizzle of olive oil. The colors and aromas mingled together, creating a tantalizing blend of flavors that danced on my taste buds.

But the secret ingredient, Mrs. Baxter whispered with a mischievous smile, was the special spice blend that her family had guarded for centuries. A mixture of cumin, paprika, and sumac, this unique combination gave the Kisir its distinct taste and aroma, elevating it from a simple salad to a gourmet delight.

As I watched Mrs. Baxter work her magic in the kitchen, I couldn't help but marvel at the way she effortlessly combined ingredients and flavors, creating a dish that was both homely and luxurious. With each stir of the spoon, she poured a little bit of love and tradition into the Kisir, infusing it with the memories of generations past.

Finally, after all the ingredients had been mixed together and allowed to marinate, Mrs. Baxter presented me with a bowl of Baxter Estate Kisir. The colors were vibrant, the textures were crunchy and smooth, and the aroma was simply irresistible. I took a bite, and my taste buds exploded with delight as the flavors danced on my tongue.

Mrs. Baxter smiled at my reaction, her eyes twinkling with satisfaction. "Now you know the secret of Baxter Estate Kisir," she said. "It's a dish that speaks of family, tradition, and love. And now, it's a part of you too."

And indeed, from that day on, Baxter Estate Kisir became a staple in my own kitchen. I would make it for special occasions and family gatherings, sharing the story of how I had learned the recipe from Mrs. Baxter herself. Each time I prepared it, I felt a connection to her and her family, a bond that transcended time and space.

As I sit here now, surrounded by the aromas of spices and herbs, I can't help but smile at the memories of that summer day at Baxter Estate. The recipe for Kisir may have been a gift from Mrs. Baxter, but the love and tradition that it embodies is a treasure that I will cherish forever. And as I take a bite of the dish that has become a part of my own culinary repertoire, I can't help but feel grateful for the friendships, stories, and recipes that have enriched my life in so many ways.