Spicy Middle Eastern Alligator With Rice Pilaf And Tabbouleh Salad Recipes

TABOULI SALAD RECIPE

Steps:

• Wash the bulgur wheat and soak it in water for 5-7 minute. Drain very well (squeeze the bulgur wheat by hand to get rid of any excess water). Set aside.
• Very finely chop the vegetables, herbs and green onions as indicated above. Be sure to place the tomatoes in a colander to drain excess juice.
• Place the chopped vegetables, herbs and green onions in a mixing bowl or dish. Add the bulgur and season with salt. Mix gently.
• Now add the the lime juice and olive oil and mix again.
• For best results, cover the tabouli and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter. If you like, serve the tabouli with a side of pita and romaine lettuce leaves, which act as wraps or "boats" for the tabouli.
• Other appetizers to serve next to tabouli salad:Hummus; Baba Ganoush; or Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

SPICY TABBOULEH WITH CUMIN AND BACON TARATOUR SAUCE

Steps:

• For the tabbouleh: Place the bulghur wheat in a bowl and cover with water. Stir in the salt and soak for 40 minutes, or until the a bulghur is softened but still a bit crunchy. When ready, drain the water from the bulghur wheat, squeezing out as much moisture as possible with your hands.
• Place the bulghur wheat in a large bowl and add the tomatoes, the parsley, the bacon and the cumin. Mix well. Add the lemon juice, the olive oil and the harissa. Mix well and taste for seasoning. Cover. Reserve in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Just before serving, moisten with a bit of olive oil.
• For the taratour sauce: Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Beat in 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons cold water in a stream.
• Wine: 1986 Domaines Ott Bandol Rose