Ash-e Mast: A Traditional and Delicious Iranian Dish
Ash-e Mast is a popular and traditional Iranian soup that is enjoyed in various regions of the country with different recipes. This delicious and nutritious soup, with its tangy flavor, is especially popular during the colder months.
Why Ash-e Mast?
Ash-e Mast is one of the most beloved Iranian soups due to its simple preparation and readily available ingredients. Additionally, yogurt is packed with nutrients like calcium and probiotics, making this soup a healthy and nutritious choice.
Main Ingredients of Ash-e Mast
* Yogurt: The key ingredient of Ash-e Mast, providing its tangy flavor and thickness.
* Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, or kidney beans are common legumes used to add thickness and flavor to the soup.
* Rice: Long-grain rice gives the soup body and a glossy finish.
* Herbs: Aromatic herbs like chives, parsley, coriander, and dill add a delightful flavor to the soup.
* Onion: Fried onions give the soup a distinctive aroma and taste.
* Other ingredients: Garlic, dried mint, turmeric, salt, and pepper are other components of Ash-e Mast.
Preparation Method
The preparation of Ash-e Mast varies slightly across different regions of Iran, but the general steps are as follows: First, the legumes are soaked and then sautéed with onions and spices. Next, rice is added and cooked until all the ingredients are tender. In the final steps, yogurt is slowly added to the soup and stirred continuously to prevent curdling. Finally, the soup is seasoned with herbs and fried onions.
Benefits of Ash-e Mast
Ash-e Mast is rich in calcium, protein, vitamins, and minerals. These nutrients help strengthen bones and teeth, improve digestion, and boost the immune system.