Calories in Bulgur Wheat: Full Nutrition Breakdown

Bulgur wheat is a whole grain made from cracked, parboiled wheat kernels, widely used in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. One cup of cooked bulgur provides about 151 calories with an impressive 8.2 grams of fiber, making it one of the highest-fiber grains available. It also delivers 5.6 grams of protein and is a good source of manganese, magnesium, and iron.

Calories by serving size:

Bulgur is a remarkably efficient grain to prepare because it has already been partially cooked during processing. It simply needs to be soaked in hot water or briefly simmered, making it one of the fastest whole grains to prepare. Its mild, slightly nutty flavor and tender texture make it a versatile ingredient for salads, pilafs, and stuffed vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How does bulgur compare to quinoa in calories and nutrition?

Bulgur is lower in calories than quinoa, with 151 calories per cooked cup compared to quinoa's 222 calories. Quinoa has more protein at 8.1 grams versus bulgur's 5.6 grams and is a complete protein, while bulgur is not. However, bulgur has significantly more fiber at 8.2 grams per cup compared to quinoa's 5.2 grams, making it the better choice for digestive health.

How does bulgur compare to couscous?

Bulgur and couscous are often confused, but they are quite different nutritionally. Bulgur has 151 calories per cooked cup versus couscous's 176 calories, and bulgur has far more fiber at 8.2 grams compared to couscous's 2.2 grams. Couscous is made from semolina flour and is technically a small pasta, while bulgur is a minimally processed whole grain.

How much fiber is in bulgur wheat?

One cup of cooked bulgur provides about 8.2 grams of dietary fiber, which is roughly 29% of the daily recommended value. This makes bulgur one of the highest-fiber grains commonly available, surpassing brown rice, quinoa, and oats in fiber per serving. The high fiber content supports digestive health, helps control blood sugar levels, and promotes feelings of fullness.

Is bulgur wheat gluten-free?

No, bulgur is not gluten-free. Bulgur is made from whole wheat kernels that have been cracked and parboiled, so it contains gluten and is unsuitable for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Gluten-free alternatives with similar preparation ease include quinoa, millet, and buckwheat.

What is tabbouleh and how is bulgur used in cooking?

Tabbouleh is a traditional Middle Eastern salad made with fine bulgur, chopped parsley, tomatoes, mint, lemon juice, and olive oil. It is one of the most well-known dishes featuring bulgur and showcases the grain's ability to absorb flavors while maintaining a pleasant texture. Beyond tabbouleh, bulgur is used in pilafs, stuffed peppers, kibbeh, veggie burgers, and as a substitute for rice or couscous in many recipes.