Ash Abas Recipe
History and Description
Ash Abas is a traditional Persian soup known for its comforting warmth and hearty blend of ingredients. Often served during celebrations or family gatherings, this dish is rich in flavor and steeped in cultural heritage. Its roots trace back to ancient Iran, where soups or "ash" were a staple of the diet, prized for their richness in nutrients and simplicity.
Ingredients
- Chickpeas - 1 cup, soaked overnight
- White beans - 1 cup, soaked overnight
- Lentils - 1 cup
- Onion, finely chopped - 2 large
- Garlic cloves, minced - 4
- Spinach, chopped - 200g
- Parsley, chopped - 100g
- Mint, dried - 1 tbsp
- Turmeric - 1 tsp
- Coriander, ground - 1 tsp
- Wheat, whole - 1/2 cup
- Rice - 1/4 cup
- Salt - to taste
- Black pepper - to taste
- Water - 8 cups
- Vegetable oil - 2 tbsp
- Lemon, sliced - for garnish
- Yogurt - for serving
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
Begin by ensuring the chickpeas and white beans have been soaked overnight to soften. If you haven't done this, a quick soak method can be used by boiling them for 1 hour before proceeding to the next steps. Gather all other ingredients including lentils, spinach, parsley, and spices.
Step 2: Chopping and Sautéing
Finely chop the onions and garlic. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil and sauté the onions until translucent. Add the minced garlic and continue to sauté until golden brown. This forms the base aromatic flavoring for the soup.
Cooking Process
Step 3: Combining Ingredients and Simmering
Add the soaked chickpeas, white beans, and lentils to the pot. Stir in the turmeric and coriander, followed by the whole wheat and rice. Pour in 8 cups of water and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for approximately 2-3 hours or until all ingredients are tender. Monitor your cooking time to achieve the right consistency.
Step 4: Adding Greens and Seasoning
Once the grains and legumes are tender, add the chopped spinach and parsley into the pot. Sprinkle the mint over the top and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Simmer for another 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Before serving, adjust any seasoning as necessary. If the soup has thickened too much, add a bit more water to reach your desired consistency. Garnish bowls of Ash Abas with fresh lemon slices for a citrusy kick and a dollop of yogurt on the side for a creamy finish.
Serving Suggestions
Ash Abas is best enjoyed warm, especially on a cool day. It pairs beautifully with fresh flatbread or as part of a larger meal. For an authentic experience, consider serving it alongside pickled vegetables and a refreshing salad.