Taboulah

Taboulah Recipe - Vegetarian Food from Saudi Arabia

Region / culture: Saudi Arabia | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Taboulah is a traditional Middle Eastern salad that is known for its fresh and vibrant flavors. This dish is made with a combination of parsley, tomatoes, crushed wheat, olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh mint. It is a popular dish that is often served as a side dish or as a light and refreshing meal on its own.

History

Taboulah has been a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the Levant region, which includes countries such as Lebanon, Syria, and Palestine. The dish has since spread to other parts of the world and has become a favorite among food enthusiasts.

Ingredients

500 g of parsley
500 g of tomatoes
100 g of crushed wheat
125 g of olive oil
75 g of lemon juice
100 g of fresh mint
1 dash of salt
1 dash of white pepper
100 g of lettuce leaves
50 g of onions

How to prepare

Wash the crushed wheat and squeeze to remove the water, then place it in a deep bowl.
Chop onions and mix them with salt and pepper, then add them to the crushed wheat.
Chop the parsley and squeeze to remove the water, then add it to the crushed wheat.
Wash the tomatoes and remove the seeds, then chop them into small pieces and add them to the crushed wheat. Keep 0.25 of the chopped tomatoes aside for garnish.
Add oil and lemon juice to the mixture, and mix well.
Pour the taboulah into a salad bowl. Garnish with the chopped tomatoes and lettuce leaves.

Variations

Add diced cucumbers or bell peppers for extra crunch and flavor.
Substitute quinoa or bulgur for the crushed wheat for a different texture.
Add feta cheese or olives for a Mediterranean twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to wash the crushed wheat thoroughly and squeeze out any excess water before using it in the recipe.

- Squeezing the parsley to remove excess water will help prevent the salad from becoming too watery.

- For a more intense flavor, you can add a dash of sumac or cumin to the salad mixture.

- Letting the salad sit for a few hours before serving will allow the flavors to meld together and develop.

Serving Suggestions

Taboulah can be served as a side dish with grilled meats, kebabs, or falafel. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a light and refreshing meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a delicious taboulah is to chop all the ingredients finely and mix them well to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fresh mint, you can use dried mint as a substitute. You can also use lime juice instead of lemon juice for a slightly different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Taboulah can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just make sure to mix well before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve taboulah in a large salad bowl and garnish with extra parsley, mint, and a drizzle of olive oil for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Taboulah pairs well with grilled meats, kebabs, hummus, and pita bread. It also goes well with a side of tzatziki or tahini sauce.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover taboulah in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, let it come to room temperature or enjoy it cold.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of taboulah contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of taboulah contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of taboulah contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of taboulah contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Taboulah is a rich source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as iron, calcium, and potassium.

Alergens

Taboulah contains wheat and may contain traces of gluten. It is also a nut-free and dairy-free dish.

Summary

Taboulah is a nutritious dish that is low in calories and fats, but high in vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for those looking for a healthy and flavorful meal.

Summary

Taboulah is a delicious and nutritious salad that is easy to make and full of fresh flavors. Whether served as a side dish or a main meal, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately captivated. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy kitchen. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by the most delightful aroma of fresh herbs and vegetables. Maria was bustling around the kitchen, chopping parsley and mint with a look of pure concentration on her face.

I asked her what she was making, and she smiled and told me it was a dish called Taboulah, a traditional Lebanese salad. I had never heard of it before, but the vibrant colors and fragrant herbs immediately caught my attention. Maria graciously offered to teach me how to make it, and I eagerly accepted.

As we chopped and mixed ingredients together, Maria shared the story of how she had learned to make Taboulah from her own grandmother. She told me that it was a recipe that had been passed down through generations, each one adding their own unique twist to the dish. I was captivated by the idea of a recipe being a link to the past, a connection to loved ones who had come before.

As we worked, Maria explained the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients in Taboulah. The parsley had to be finely chopped, the tomatoes ripe and juicy, the mint fragrant and crisp. She showed me how to soak the bulgur wheat in water to soften it, and how to squeeze out the excess liquid before adding it to the salad.

As we mixed everything together, the colors of the salad blended harmoniously, creating a masterpiece of green, red, and white. The flavors were bright and refreshing, the perfect combination of tangy lemon, earthy olive oil, and fragrant herbs. I took my first bite and was instantly transported to a sunny garden in Lebanon, surrounded by family and friends, laughter and love.

From that moment on, Taboulah became a staple in my own kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions. Each time I prepared it, I felt a connection to Maria and her grandmother, to the traditions and stories that made this dish so special.

Over the years, I have added my own touches to the recipe, experimenting with different herbs, spices, and vegetables. I have shared it with friends and neighbors, passing on the tradition of Taboulah to a new generation.

And now, as I stand in my own kitchen, surrounded by the familiar scents and sounds of cooking, I am grateful for the gift of this recipe. It is more than just a salad, more than just a dish – it is a piece of history, a taste of the past, a reminder of the love and connection that binds us all together.

So the next time you make Taboulah, remember the stories and traditions that have been woven into this simple yet delicious dish. Let it transport you to a sunny garden in Lebanon, surrounded by family and friends, laughter and love. And most of all, enjoy every bite, savoring the flavors and memories that make Taboulah so special.