BULGUR, FINE (G05)

Fine Bulgur (also called "bulghur" or even "bulghul") is a whole-grain product made from hard red winter wheat berries. To make it, hulled wheat kernels are processed to remove a small amount of the bran, then steamed, dried and cracked to a fine grain. This process creates a quick-cooking grain dish that is especially popular in Middle Eastern cuisines (the word "bulgur" is of Turkish origin). Bulgur has a mild, nutty flavor. When properly prepared it has a tender, fluffy texture not unlike couscous or rice. It is the main ingredient in the well-known Middle Eastern dishes tabbouleh, a Middle Eastern salad with chopped mint or parsley, tomato, cucumbers and other ingredients, but it is also a key ingredient in a variety of dishes from many different cuisines. Bulgur also has a starring role in kibbeh, balls of spiced ground lamb or beef coated in bulgur and fried. Coarse Bulgur is also ideal for pilafs, hearty soups and stuffings.