Palestinian Maftoul Salad with Sumac Yogurt Dressing
Dive into the rich flavors of Palestine with this refreshing maftoul salad, perfectly complemented by a tangy sumac yogurt dressing.

Preparation
Get these tasks done before you start cooking.
Preparing the Maftoul
- 1
Rinse the maftoul
Rinse the maftoul under cold water.
- 2
Heat olive oil
In a medium-sized pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- 3
Toast the maftoul
Add maftoul and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
Tip: Toast gently to enhance its nutty flavor.
Cooking the Maftoul
- 1
Add liquid and bring to boil
Pour in the water or broth, and bring to a boil.
- 2
Simmer the maftoul
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
Tip: Do not overcook maftoul or it will become mushy.
- 3
Fluff and cool
Fluff with a fork and let it cool slightly.
Tip: Using a fork helps keep the maftoul light and airy.
How to Make Palestinian Maftoul Salad with Sumac Yogurt Dressing
Total time: 1 h · Yields 4 servings
- 1
Assemble the Salad
Once the maftoul has cooled, combine with tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, parsley, and mint in a large bowl.
- 2
Make the Dressing
Whisk together the Greek yogurt, sumac, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- 3
Combine Flavors
Pour the dressing over the maftoul mixture and gently toss to coat.
Chef's Tips
Further reading
Frequently asked questions
How long can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I make the maftoul ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook and cool the maftoul in advance and combine it with fresh ingredients just before serving.
What can I substitute for maftoul?
Couscous or pearl barley can be used as an alternative, though each offers a slightly different texture.
Is there a vegan dressing option?
Yes, substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt to make the dressing vegan.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Grilled chicken or chickpeas make a great addition for extra protein.
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