Ashe Reshteh is a traditional Persian soup that is both hearty and nutritious. This delicious soup is made with lentils, chickpeas, and vegetables, and is seasoned with a blend of spices that give it a unique flavor. In this blog post, we will guide you through the steps of cooking Ashe Reshteh and also discuss the history and nutritional benefits of this dish.
History of Ashe Reshteh
Ashe Reshteh is a popular soup that is commonly eaten in Iran. The dish has its origins in the Persian Empire, where it was often served to royalty and commoners alike. The word “ashe” means soup in Farsi, and “teshteh” refers to the lentils and chickpeas that are the main ingredients in this dish. Over the years, Ashe Teshteh has become a staple in Persian cuisine and is enjoyed by people all over the world.
Ingredients for Ashe Reshteh
To make Ashe Reshteh, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup of dried lentils
- 1 cup of canned chickpeas
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon of turmeric
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of coriander
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 cups of water
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
Cooking Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the lentils thoroughly and soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain the lentils and set them aside.
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and sauté until they are soft and translucent.
- Add the chopped carrots and celery to the pot and sauté for a few minutes.
- Add the lentils, chickpeas, tomato paste, and spices to the pot and stir to combine.
- Pour in 6 cups of water and bring the soup to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the vegetables are cooked.
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup to a smooth consistency. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a blender and blend it in batches.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve Ashe Teshteh hot with a side of bread.
Nutritional Benefits
Ashe Reshteh is a nutritious soup that is packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. Lentils and chickpeas are both great sources of plant-based protein and fiber, which can help promote satiety and support digestive health. The vegetables in this dish also provide a range of essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium. Additionally, the blend of spices used in Ashe Teshteh, such as turmeric and cumin, are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
In conclusion, Ashe Reshteh is a delicious and nutritious soup that is easy to make and perfect for cold winter days. With its rich history and range of health benefits, this dish is a must-try for anyone interested in Persian cuisine.
