Aşure, commonly known as Noah's Pudding, is a revered dessert with deep cultural and religious roots. This ancient dish traces back to the story of Prophet Noah, who, according to legend, crafted this wholesome pudding from grains, dried fruits, and nuts aboard his ark. Today, Aşure continues to be cherished across various cultures and is often prepared during the Islamic month of Muharram, particularly on the Day of Ashura. This sweet and nutritious treat symbolizes unity, generosity, and gratitude, reflecting the spirit of sharing and community. Traditional recipes vary, but commonly include a delightful medley of ingredients such as wheat, barley, lentils, dried apricots, raisins, nuts, and spices, all cooked together to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. With its rich history and symbolic significance, Aşure remains a beloved dessert cherished by many around the world.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup wheat berries

- 1/2 cup barley

- 1/2 cup dried chickpeas

- 1/2 cup dried white beans

- 1/2 cup dried red beans

- 1/2 cup green lentils

- 1 cup sugar

- 1/2 cup raisins

- 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped

- 1/2 cup dried figs, chopped

- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped

- 1/2 cup almonds, chopped

- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Rinse all the grains and legumes thoroughly under cold water.

2. In a large pot, combine the wheat berries, barley, chickpeas, white beans, red beans, and lentils. Add enough water to cover the ingredients by about 2 inches. Bring to a boil over high heat.

3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, partially covered, for about 1 hour or until the grains and legumes are tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally and add more water if necessary to prevent sticking.

4. Once the grains and legumes are cooked, add the sugar, raisins, dried apricots, dried figs, walnuts, almonds, and ground cinnamon to the pot. Stir well to combine.

5. Continue to cook the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, for another 15-20 minutes or until the pudding thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.

6. Remove the pot from the heat and let the Aşure cool to room temperature.

7. Serve the Aşure in bowls or small dishes, either warm or chilled, garnished with additional nuts and dried fruits if desired. Enjoy this delicious and nutritious dessert with family and friends!

Nutrition Value:

1. Wheat Berries:

  - Calories: Approximately 300 kcal per cup

  - Carbohydrates: Around 60 grams

  - Protein: About 12 grams

  - Fat: Around 2 grams

  - Sodium: Minimal

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Nutritional benefits: High in fiber, iron, magnesium, and B vitamins. Provides sustained energy and supports digestive health.

2. Barley:

  - Calories: Around 200 kcal per 1/2 cup

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 44 grams

  - Protein: About 4 grams

  - Fat: Around 1 gram

  - Sodium: Minimal

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Nutritional benefits: Rich in fiber, manganese, selenium, and B vitamins. Supports heart health, aids digestion, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.

3. Dried Chickpeas:

  - Calories: Approximately 360 kcal per 1/2 cup

  - Carbohydrates: Around 60 grams

  - Protein: About 17 grams

  - Fat: Around 6 grams

  - Sodium: Minimal

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Nutritional benefits: Excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, iron, folate, and zinc. Supports muscle growth, aids in weight management, and promotes digestive health.

4. Dried White Beans and Dried Red Beans:

  - Calories: Approximately 150 kcal per 1/2 cup (each)

  - Carbohydrates: Around 27 grams (each)

  - Protein: About 8 grams (each)

  - Fat: Around 1 gram (each)

  - Sodium: Minimal

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Nutritional benefits: High in fiber, protein, folate, potassium, and magnesium. Promotes heart health, supports bone health, and helps regulate blood pressure.

5. Green Lentils:

  - Calories: Approximately 120 kcal per 1/2 cup

  - Carbohydrates: Around 20 grams

  - Protein: About 9 grams

  - Fat: Around 0.5 grams

  - Sodium: Minimal

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Nutritional benefits: Rich in protein, fiber, iron, folate, and potassium. Supports muscle function, aids in digestion, and helps stabilize blood sugar levels.

6. Sugar (1 cup):

  - Calories: Approximately 770 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Around 200 grams

  - Protein: None

  - Fat: None

  - Sodium: Minimal

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Nutritional benefits: Provides quick energy but should be consumed in moderation due to its high calorie and low nutrient content.

7. Raisins:

  - Calories: Approximately 220 kcal per 1/2 cup

  - Carbohydrates: Around 60 grams

  - Protein: About 2 grams

  - Fat: Around 0.5 grams

  - Sodium: Minimal

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Nutritional benefits: High in natural sugars, fiber, antioxidants, and potassium. Supports digestive health, boosts energy, and may aid in lowering blood pressure.

8. Dried Apricots:

  - Calories: Approximately 110 kcal per 1/2 cup (chopped)

  - Carbohydrates: Around 28 grams

  - Protein: About 2 grams

  - Fat: Around 0.5 grams

  - Sodium: Minimal

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Nutritional benefits: Rich in fiber, vitamin A, vitamin E, and potassium. Supports eye health, boosts immunity, and aids in digestion.

9. Dried Figs:

  - Calories: Approximately 110 kcal per 1/2 cup (chopped)

  - Carbohydrates: Around 30 grams

  - Protein: About 1 gram

  - Fat: Around 0.5 grams

  - Sodium: Minimal

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Nutritional benefits: Good source of fiber, potassium, calcium, and antioxidants. Supports digestive health, bone density, and may help regulate blood sugar levels.

10. Walnuts:

  - Calories: Approximately 200 kcal per 1/2 cup (chopped)

  - Carbohydrates: Around 4 grams

  - Protein: About 5 grams

  - Fat: Around 20 grams

  - Sodium: Minimal

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Nutritional benefits: High in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, protein, and vitamin E. Supports brain health, heart health, and may reduce inflammation.

11. Almonds:

  - Calories: Approximately 260 kcal per 1/2 cup (chopped)

  - Carbohydrates: Around 10 grams

  - Protein: About 10 grams

  - Fat: Around 22 grams

  - Sodium: Minimal

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Nutritional benefits: Rich in healthy fats, protein, fiber, vitamin E, and magnesium. Supports heart health, aids in weight management, and helps lower cholesterol levels.

12. Ground Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 3 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Around 1 gram

  - Protein: Less than 1 gram

  - Fat: Less than 1 gram

  - Sodium: Minimal

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Nutritional benefits: Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. May help regulate blood sugar levels, improve digestion, and boost immunity.