Wheat Berry Mechwia

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Tunisian cuisine with our Wheat Berry Mechwia salad. This flavor-packed dish features roasted vegetables, briny capers, and olives, all combined with the hearty goodness of wheat berries. We’ve put our own twist on the traditional Mechewia by using ripe, heirloom tomatoes instead of roasted ones, adding a burst of freshness to the dish. While the classic Mechewia often includes eggs and tuna, our version keeps the best elements and introduces the wholesome goodness of wheat berries. Serve it alongside Zhoug Farro Falafel or Cracked Wheat Koftas for a complete and satisfying meal. You can also use Kamut, spelt, triticale berries, or any similar grain as a substitute for wheat berries, adjusting the cooking times accordingly. Prepare to be transported to the vibrant flavors of Tunisia with each bite of this delectable Wheat Berry Mechwia.

YIELD: 4 side-dish servings

INGREDIENTS:

• 3/4 cup (144 g) dry, soft, white wheat berries, rinsed and drained
• 1 tablespoon (8 g) Broth Powder
• 1 whole green bell pepper
• 1 whole jalapeño pepper
• 1/2 red onion, peeled and halved
• 3 whole cloves garlic, peeled
• 2 large ripe heirloom tomatoes, chopped
• 12 kalamata and green olives (a mix of both), pitted and chopped
• 1 1/2 tablespoons (23 ml) capers with brine, coarsely minced
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground sumac
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt, to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley or mint, for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Place the wheat berries in a pot and cover them with an extra 3 inches (7.5 cm) of water. Add 1 tablespoon (8 g) of broth powder and bring to a boil. Lower the heat, partially cover with a lid, and simmer until tender, which should take about 1 hour. If needed, drain and set aside.
2. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C, or gas mark 7). On a lightly greased, medium rimmed baking sheet, place the green bell pepper, jalapeño pepper, red onion, and garlic. Roasting times will vary, but generally, the bell pepper should take about 30 minutes (must be soft and charred) and the onion about 30 minutes (must be softer and browned). The jalapeño and garlic should take around 15 minutes (must be soft and charred and soft and browned, respectively). Check every 5 to 10 minutes to avoid burning, and flip the vegetables halfway through.
3. Once roasted, place the peppers in a glass bowl with a lid for 10 minutes. Once they’re cool enough to handle, peel the skin from the peppers, discarding the seeds and core. Mince the garlic and chop or thinly slice the peppers and onion.
4. In a large skillet, combine the wheat berries, chopped tomatoes, peppers, onion, minced garlic, olives, capers, olive oil, lemon juice, sumac, and cumin. Fold all the ingredients together and cook on low heat for 4 minutes, just enough to meld the flavors. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped parsley or mint.
5. Enjoy the Wheat Berry Mechwia warm or at room temperature. Leftovers can be gently reheated for an even more delightful taste experience.

This recipe making it perfect for sharing with family and friends. The marriage of roasted vegetables, tangy capers, and briny olives, combined with the nutty goodness of wheat berries, creates a harmony of flavors that will leave your taste buds singing. Savor the taste of Tunisia with this delectable salad, an ideal side dish for any occasion. Enjoy the wholesome goodness of wheat berries in every delightful bite, and experience the magic of Mechewia in your own kitchen.

This Wheat Berry Mechwia salad is a true celebration of flavors, combining the rich Tunisian tradition with a wholesome twist. The tender, nutty wheat berries provide a satisfying base for the roasted vegetables, zesty capers, and briny olives, all brought together with a burst of freshness from the ripe heirloom tomatoes. With each bite, you’ll experience the warmth of Tunisian spices and the vibrant medley of textures. This salad is not only delicious but also versatile and customizable, allowing you to make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, this dish is a refreshing and healthy addition to any meal. So indulge in the taste of Tunisia and the hearty goodness of wheat berries with our Wheat Berry Mechwia recipe. Enjoy the rich flavors and wholesome goodness in every delightful mouthful. Happy cooking!