a recipe for making gluten-free Aşure (Noah’s Pudding)
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mixed gluten-free grains (such as rice, buckwheat, quinoa, millet)
- 1 cup mixed gluten-free legumes (such as chickpeas, white beans, red kidney beans)
- 1/2 cup mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, currants, chopped apricots, chopped dates)
- 1/2 cup mixed nuts (such as walnuts, almonds, pistachios), chopped
- 1 cup sugar (adjust according to your preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 8 cups water
- 1 tablespoon rosewater (optional)
- Pomegranate seeds, crushed pistachios, and/or shredded coconut for garnishing
Instructions:
- Rinse the mixed grains and legumes under cold water. Soak them separately in water overnight or for at least 8 hours.
- Drain the soaked grains and legumes and rinse them again. Cook them separately in fresh water until tender. The cooking times may vary depending on the grains and legumes you use. Follow the package instructions or cook until they are soft but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pot, combine the cooked grains, legumes, mixed dried fruits, chopped nuts, sugar, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and water. Stir well to mix all the ingredients.
- Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The mixture should thicken slightly.
- Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the rosewater (if using). Taste the pudding and adjust the sweetness or spices according to your preference.
- Allow the Aşure to cool to room temperature. It will continue to thicken as it cools. If it becomes too thick, you can add a little water and stir to achieve the desired consistency.
- Serve the Aşure in bowls or dessert plates, garnished with pomegranate seeds, crushed pistachios, and/or shredded coconut.
Aşure is traditionally prepared and shared during the month of Muharram in the Islamic calendar, particularly on the 10th day known as Aşure Day. However, you can enjoy this delicious gluten-free dessert any time of the year.