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Welcome to the world of Persian cuisine, where flavors dance harmoniously on the palate, and every dish tells a story of tradition and culture. One such dish that embodies this essence is "Ash e Mast," a creamy and nourishing soup that has captivated the hearts of many. Renowned for its velvety texture and rich flavors, Ash e Mast is a delightful blend of herbs, legumes, and yogurt that not only satisfies hunger but also nourishes the soul.

Ash e Mast, a Persian soup

Discover the comforting flavors of Ash e Mast, a creamy Persian delight that combines chickpeas, red lentils, fresh spinach, and a medley of herbs for a nutritious and hearty meal. This delightful soup is easy to make and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Topped with a swirl of yogurt and fresh mint, it's a delicious way to warm up any day. Serve with lemon wedges to brighten the flavors. A true taste of Persia in every spoonful!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight

1 cup dried red lentils

1 cup fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, and dill), chopped

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon vegetable oil or butter

6 cups vegetable broth or water

2 cups plain yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt)

1 teaspoon turmeric

Salt and pepper to taste

1 teaspoon dried mint (optional)

Fresh mint leaves for garnish

1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chickpeas: Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas. In a large pot, combine the chickpeas, vegetable broth, and turmeric. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for about 45 minutes until the chickpeas are tender.

    Cook the Lentils: Add the red lentils to the pot and simmer for an additional 20 minutes until the lentils are soft.

      Sauté Aromatics: In a separate pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

        Add Greens and Herbs: Stir in the chopped spinach, fresh herbs, and sautéed onion and garlic into the soup. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

          Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle in the dried mint for additional flavor.

            Create the Creamy Base: In a bowl, mix the plain yogurt with a splash of hot broth to temper it, then stir this mixture back into the soup. This will give the Ash e Mast its creamy texture.

              Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh mint leaves and a wedge of lemon on the side.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Servings: 6