Persian Ash Dough Recipe: A Culinary Delight
Experience the tradition and flavors of Persian cuisine with Ash Dough, a beloved and versatile dish enjoyed across Iran. Known for its rich history and diverse preparations depending on the region, Ash Dough combines simple ingredients to create a comforting and delectable soup. Whether you prefer it thick like sholeh ghalamkar or thin as a broth, this dish is sure to delight the palate. Let’s delve into the art of making Persian Ash Dough at home.
Ingredients
Serves 4-6 people
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Dough | 2 liters |
| Chickpeas | 200 grams |
| Ash herbs (parsley, dill) | 750 grams |
| Rice | 1 cup |
| Fried garlic | 1 tablespoon |
| Fried mint | 2 tablespoons |
| Fried onion | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt and black pepper | to taste |
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Chickpeas – Before you embark on creating Persian Ash Dough, ensure the chickpeas are properly soaked. Soak them for at least two hours, or preferably overnight, to ease cooking and reduce any digestive discomfort. Change the soaking water several times to completely eliminate impurities.
Step 2: Cooking the Chickpeas – Once soaked, rinse the chickpeas thoroughly under cold water. Place them in a suitable pot, cover with water, and bring to a gentle boil. Cook until chickpeas are tender, which can take about one hour or more depending on their size.
Step 3: Softening the Rice – Meanwhile, bring two cups of water with half a teaspoon of salt to a boil in a small pan. Rinse the rice under cold water to remove extra starch, then add it to the boiling water. Allow it to cook until the rice grains are soft but still hold their shape.
Step 4: Incorporating Herbs and Rice – Once the rice is ready, combine it with chickpeas in a larger pot. Add thoroughly washed and chopped herbs like parsley and dill to the mix. To maintain their vibrant color, sprinkle a bit of salt before incorporating the greens.
Step 5: Adding Dough – As the herbs blend with the rice and chickpeas for about 30 minutes, gradually pour in the dough while continuously stirring to avoid curdling. Allow the mixture to simmer gently, infusing the flavors.
Step 6: Final Seasoning – After the dough has mingled with other ingredients for around 15 minutes, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper. Whether using local or commercial dough, avoid covering the pot to preserve the desired texture.
Step 7: Garnishing and Serving – Serve the hot Persian Ash Dough adorned with crispy fried onions, garlic, and mint. This not only enhances flavor but also adds a visually appealing touch that complements the dish’s essence.
Pro Tips
For the best flavor, use fresh local herbs. If unavailable, opt for well-preserved dried herbs. The dish can be personalized with red kidney beans or lamb for added richness. When using dough, consider its consistency to prevent overpowering the dish’s balance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can use canned chickpeas to save time, but they’re often salted, so adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Ash Dough is typically gluten-free, as it mainly consists of rice, chickpeas, and herbs. Ensure all ingredients used align with dietary needs.
Ash Dough is best consumed fresh. However, if necessary, freeze it without the garnishes in an airtight container for up to a month.
