Freekeh is used in this nonconventional tabbouleh because of its smoky, slightly lemony flavor, which is amplified by the sweet-sour pomegranates and punchy dressing, but feel free to sub farro, brown rice, or barley. Soaking the whole grains shortens the cooking time.
Reprinted With Permission From Where Cooking Begins. By Carla Lalli Music, published by Clarkson Potter, March 2019
Recipe information
Yield
6 servings
Ingredients
Ingredient Info
Preparation
Step 1
Cook freekeh in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente, 20–30 minutes. Drain and spread out on a rimmed baking sheet; season with kosher salt and pepper while still warm. Let cool.
Step 2
Meanwhile, whisk together shallot, chile, ginger, oil, lime juice, maple syrup, and 2 tsp. sumac. Taste dressing and season with kosher salt. Let sit 10 minutes.
Step 3
Cut pomegranates in half. Working over a large bowl, hold a pomegranate half cut side down in your palm with your fingers stretched wide. Use a wooden spoon to forcefully and repeatedly smack pomegranate skin, which will send the seeds raining down into the bowl. Repeat with remaining pomegranate. Fill bowl with cold water to cover seeds. Skim off any little bits of pith that float to the surface; drain seeds and shake off excess liquid.
Step 4
Toss parsley, fennel, fennel fronds, and mint in a large bowl. Add freekeh, season with kosher salt, and toss gently to combine. Add dressing and toss with your hands to thoroughly coat ingredients. Add pomegranate seeds and toss gently to disperse. Sprinkle with sea salt and more sumac.
Step 5
Do Ahead: Freekeh can be cooked 3 days ahead. Cover and chill.
