How to Make Delicious Ashe Torsh with Tangy and Sweet Plums
If you’re a fan of healthy, nutritious meals, chances are you’ve already added different types of Ash to your diet. Most Ash recipes are packed with vegetables and legumes, making them a fantastic option for a hearty and flavorful meal! The best part? If you follow a vegetarian diet, you’ll be happy to know that most Ash varieties are meat-free and loaded with plant-based protein and fiber.
One particularly popular type is Ashe Torsh, also known as Plum Ash. This dish, sometimes referred to as Fruit Ash, is a variation of Ash-e Alu and is made with a combination of legumes, vegetables, tangy and sweet plums, and flavorful seasonings. The result? A perfectly balanced mix of sour, sweet, and slightly savory flavors. If you’re looking to try something different, this simple Ashe Torsh recipe is a must!
Ingredients for Ashe Torsh
- Chickpeas – ⅓ cup
- Beans (any variety you like) – ⅓ cup
- Large onion – 1 (chopped)
- Small potato – 1 (diced)
- Garlic cloves – 2
- Spinach – 200g (about 7 oz)
- Pomegranate paste – 1 tbsp
- Tomato paste – 1 tbsp
- Tangy and sweet plums – as desired
- Dried apricots (Gheisi) – as desired
- Salt, pepper, and turmeric – to taste
How to Make Ashe Torsh
- Soak the legumes overnight. This step makes them easier to digest and reduces bloating. The next day, drain and rinse them, then place them in a pot with the chopped onion. Add enough water and let them cook until soft.
- Add the vegetables. Toss in the diced potato, garlic cloves, and spinach. These ingredients not only add great flavor but also boost the nutritional value. Let everything simmer for another 15 to 20 minutes.
- Time for the pomegranate paste! Stir in a tablespoon of pomegranate paste and a tablespoon of tomato paste. This combination gives the ash its signature tangy, rich taste.
- Now, add the dried fruits. This is where the magic happens! Add the tangy and sweet plums along with the dried apricots. These will enhance the ash’s fruity and slightly sweet notes. Let it all simmer on low heat for another 30 to 40 minutes until well combined and thickened.
Season to taste. Finally, add salt, pepper, and turmeric. Give it a taste and adjust the flavors as needed.
Tips for Making the Best Ashe Torsh
- Want it tangier? Increase the amount of pomegranate paste or add more sour plums. Traditionally, a splash of white vinegar is also used for extra tang.
- Prefer a sweeter touch? Add more dried apricots. Some people even use a little sugar to balance the flavors.
- Like your Ash thicker? Some variations include rice or bulgur wheat to give it a heartier texture. Feel free to experiment!
- Let it simmer properly. The longer it cooks, the better the flavors will meld together.
Nutritional Value of Ashe Torsh
Ashe Torsh isn’t just delicious, it’s packed with nutrients! Thanks to the legumes, it’s rich in fiber and plant-based protein, making it a fantastic choice for a healthy, vegetarian-friendly diet. A single bowl contains about 200 to 250 calories, making it both filling and nutritious. With its combination of dried fruits, fiber, and wholesome ingredients, it’s a great option for a balanced meal.
If you’re looking for a flavorful, nourishing, and unique dish, give Ashe Torsh a try. You won’t be disappointed!
Author: Zahra Barani