Name: Ashure Dessert: A Delicious and Nutritious Turkish Pudding Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 180 min
Total time: 300 min
Yield: 8-10 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried white beans; 1 cup dried chickpeas; 1 cup pearl barley; 1/2 cup wheat berries (hulled wheat); 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped; 1/2 cup dried figs, chopped; 1/2 cup raisins; 1/4 cup currants; 1/4 cup chopped walnuts; 1/4 cup chopped almonds; 1/4 cup pine nuts; 1 orange, zest and juice; 1 lemon, zest and juice; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves; Pinch of salt; Approximately 10-12 cups of water (or more, as needed)

Ashure dessert, also known as Noah's Pudding, is more than just a sweet treat; it's a heartwarming story baked into a bowl. Imagine a dessert so ancient, it's said to have originated on Noah's Ark! Legend has it that when the ark finally settled, the remaining ingredients were combined to create this very dish.

This delightful pudding, a staple in Turkish cuisine and beyond, is a celebration of abundance and unity. It's traditionally made with a mix of grains, dried fruits, nuts, and beans, each ingredient contributing to its unique and satisfying texture. The beauty of Ashure dessert lies in its versatility; every family has their own cherished recipe, passed down through generations, making each bowl a unique expression of love and tradition.

But why do people adore Ashure so much? It's the symphony of flavors, the comforting warmth, and the sheer goodness packed into every spoonful. The chewy grains, the sweet burst of dried fruits, the satisfying crunch of nuts – it's a textural and flavorful adventure! Plus, it's naturally vegan and packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Whether you're drawn to its historical significance, its delicious taste, or its wholesome ingredients, Ashure is a dessert that truly nourishes the body and soul. So, are you ready to embark on this culinary journey with me? Let's dive into making this incredible dessert together!

Ingredients:

1 cup dried white beans
1 cup dried chickpeas
1 cup pearl barley
1/2 cup wheat berries (hulled wheat)
1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
1/2 cup dried figs, chopped
1/2 cup raisins
1/4 cup currants
1/4 cup chopped walnuts
1/4 cup chopped almonds
1/4 cup pine nuts
1 orange, zest and juice
1 lemon, zest and juice
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
Pinch of salt
Approximately 10-12 cups of water (or more, as needed)

Preparing the Grains and Legumes:

This is the most time-consuming part, but it's crucial for a smooth and delicious Ashure. Don't skip these steps!

Soaking the Beans and Chickpeas: Place the dried white beans and dried chickpeas in separate bowls. Cover them generously with cold water. Let them soak for at least 12 hours, or preferably overnight. This helps soften them and reduces cooking time. I usually do this the night before I plan to make the Ashure.
Soaking the Barley and Wheat Berries: Similarly, place the pearl barley and wheat berries in separate bowls and cover them with cold water. Soak them for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. Soaking these grains also helps them cook more evenly and prevents them from becoming too chewy.
Draining and Rinsing: After soaking, drain all the beans, chickpeas, barley, and wheat berries thoroughly. Rinse them under cold running water until the water runs clear. This removes any impurities and helps improve the flavor.
Cooking the Beans: Place the soaked and rinsed white beans in a large pot. Cover them with fresh water (about 6-8 cups). Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beans are very tender. They should be easily mashed with a fork. Check the water level periodically and add more if needed to prevent them from drying out.
Cooking the Chickpeas: In a separate large pot, place the soaked and rinsed chickpeas. Cover them with fresh water (about 6-8 cups). Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the chickpeas are very tender. Again, they should be easily mashed with a fork. Check the water level and add more if necessary.
Cooking the Barley and Wheat Berries: In another separate pot, combine the soaked and rinsed pearl barley and wheat berries. Cover them with fresh water (about 6-8 cups). Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the grains are tender but still slightly chewy. Check the water level and add more if needed.

Combining and Simmering the Ashure:

Now comes the fun part – bringing all the ingredients together to create the magic!

Combining the Cooked Ingredients: Once the beans, chickpeas, barley, and wheat berries are cooked, drain any excess water from each pot. Transfer all the cooked ingredients to a very large pot (at least 8-quart capacity). This pot needs to be big enough to accommodate all the ingredients and allow for simmering without overflowing.
Adding the Dried Fruits: Add the chopped dried apricots, chopped dried figs, raisins, and currants to the pot with the cooked grains and legumes. These fruits will plump up and release their sweetness as they simmer.
Adding the Orange and Lemon Zest and Juice: Add the orange zest, orange juice, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the pot. The citrus adds a bright and refreshing flavor that balances the sweetness of the dried fruits.
Adding the Spices: Add the ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and a pinch of salt to the pot. The spices add warmth and depth of flavor to the Ashure.
Adding Water and Sugar: Add about 6-8 cups of water to the pot. The water should cover all the ingredients. Add the granulated sugar. Stir well to dissolve the sugar.
Simmering the Ashure: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot partially (leaving a small gap for steam to escape), and simmer for at least 1 hour, or up to 2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together and the Ashure will thicken.
Adjusting Consistency: During the simmering process, check the consistency of the Ashure. If it's too thick, add more water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. If it's too thin, continue simmering uncovered to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. The final consistency should be similar to a thick porridge or stew.
Adjusting Sweetness: Taste the Ashure and adjust the sweetness as needed. Add more sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired level of sweetness. Remember that the flavors will continue to develop as it cools, so it might taste slightly sweeter later.

Serving and Garnishing:

The final touch – making it look as good as it tastes!

Cooling the Ashure: Once the Ashure has reached your desired consistency and sweetness, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. It can be served warm or cold, depending on your preference. I personally prefer it slightly chilled.
Portioning the Ashure: Ladle the Ashure into individual serving bowls. You can use small bowls, ramekins, or even glasses.
Garnishing the Ashure: Garnish each bowl of Ashure with chopped walnuts, chopped almonds, and pine nuts. You can also add a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or a few extra raisins or currants. Get creative with your garnishes! Some people also like to add pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and flavor.
Serving: Serve the Ashure immediately or refrigerate it for later. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will actually deepen and improve over time.

Tips and Variations:

Bean and Chickpea Skins: Some people prefer to remove the skins from the beans and chickpeas after they are cooked. This will result in a smoother texture, but it's not necessary. It's a bit time-consuming, so I usually skip this step.
Fruit Variations: Feel free to experiment with different dried fruits. You can add dried cranberries, chopped dates, or even dried cherries.
Nut Variations: You can also use different nuts for garnishing, such as pistachios, hazelnuts, or pecans.
Spice Variations: If you like, you can add a pinch of ground cardamom or nutmeg to the Ashure for a different flavor profile.
Vegan Option: This recipe is naturally vegan, so no substitutions are needed!
Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the pearl barley and wheat berries with gluten-free grains such as quinoa or rice.
Making Ahead: Ashure is a great make-ahead dessert. You can prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld together even more as it sits.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this traditional Turkish dessert as much as I do! It's a labor of love, but the results are well worth the effort. Afiyet olsun!

Conclusion:

This isn't just another dessert recipe; it's a journey through history and a celebration of flavors! I truly believe this Ashure recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to expand their culinary horizons and experience something truly special. The combination of textures, from the creamy wheat to the chewy dried fruits and the satisfying crunch of the nuts, creates a symphony in your mouth that you won't soon forget. It's a dish that's both comforting and exciting, familiar yet exotic. But why is it a must-try? Beyond the incredible taste, Ashure is a dish steeped in tradition and symbolism. Each ingredient represents abundance, fertility, and unity. Sharing a bowl of Ashure is more than just enjoying a sweet treat; it's participating in a cultural experience that spans centuries. It's a conversation starter, a way to connect with others, and a delicious reminder of the importance of community. And the best part? It's incredibly versatile! While the traditional recipe is fantastic as is, there's plenty of room for experimentation. Feel free to adjust the sweetness to your liking, adding more or less sugar or honey. You can also customize the dried fruits and nuts based on your preferences and what you have on hand. Not a fan of figs? Swap them out for apricots! Prefer walnuts over almonds? Go for it! The possibilities are endless. Serving Suggestions and Variations: * Serve Ashure warm or cold, depending on your preference. I personally love it chilled, especially on a warm day. * Garnish generously with chopped nuts, pomegranate seeds, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. The pomegranate seeds add a beautiful pop of color and a burst of tartness that complements the sweetness of the dessert perfectly. * For a richer flavor, try adding a tablespoon of rosewater or orange blossom water to the pot while it's simmering. * If you're feeling adventurous, you can even add a pinch of saffron for a subtle floral aroma and a vibrant yellow hue. * For a vegan version, simply ensure that the dried fruits you use are not coated in honey and use plant-based milk if you desire a creamier consistency. * Consider serving Ashure with a dollop of coconut cream or a sprinkle of shredded coconut for an extra layer of flavor and texture. I'm confident that once you try this recipe, it will become a new favorite in your household. It's perfect for special occasions, holidays, or simply as a comforting treat on a cozy evening. It’s also a wonderful way to introduce your friends and family to a new and exciting culinary experience. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to embark on a delicious adventure. I promise you won't be disappointed. I'm so excited for you to try this Ashure recipe! Once you've made it, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I'd love to hear about your variations, your serving suggestions, and any tips you have for making it even better. Let's create a community of Ashure enthusiasts and share our love for this incredible dessert! Don't forget to rate the recipe and share it with your friends and family. Happy cooking!