Iranian Ash Reshteh

Iranian Ash Reshteh: A Nourishing Persian Herb and Noodle Soup

Ash Reshteh is a beloved Iranian soup made from herbs, legumes, and noodles, often enjoyed during Persian New Year (Nowruz) and spring celebrations. It's topped with fried onions, dried mint, and a swirl of kashk, a fermented whey product that adds a signature tangy richness. Hearty and comforting, it’s a celebration of renewal and abundance.

Ingredients

For 4 servings:

• 1 cup chopped parsley
• 1 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 cup chopped spinach
• ½ cup cooked chickpeas
• ½ cup cooked kidney beans
• ½ cup cooked lentils
• 100 g reshteh noodles (or linguine)
• 2 onions, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup kashk (or sour cream/yogurt if unavailable)
• 1 tablespoon dried mint
• ½ teaspoon turmeric
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Oil for frying

Preparation

Cooking the Base

1. In a large pot, heat a bit of oil and sauté one sliced onion, garlic, turmeric, salt, and pepper until fragrant.
2. Add lentils, chickpeas, and kidney beans with water to cover. Simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Stir in chopped herbs and continue to cook for another 20 minutes.

Adding Noodles and Toppings

1. Break noodles into pieces and add to the pot. Cook until tender, about 15–20 minutes more.
2. Meanwhile, fry the second sliced onion until golden and crispy. Set aside.
3. In a separate small pan, fry dried mint in a little oil for 30 seconds. Do not burn.

Serving

Ladle the soup into bowls. Drizzle with warmed kashk, then garnish with crispy onions and fried mint. Serve with flatbread or pickled vegetables for contrast.

Tips and Variations

• Substitute noodles: Linguine or whole wheat spaghetti work well if reshteh isn’t available.
• Add yogurt: If kashk is hard to find, a mix of sour cream and yogurt gives a similar tang.
• Boost protein: Add extra legumes or shredded chicken for a fuller meal.

FAQ

What is kashk?

Kashk is a fermented dairy product used in Persian cooking, similar to sour yogurt but thicker and tangier.

Can I freeze Ash Reshteh?

Yes, though it’s best without the toppings. Reheat and add fresh kashk and fried garnishes before serving.

Is Ash Reshteh vegetarian?

Yes, it’s naturally vegetarian and packed with plant-based protein from beans and lentils.

Conclusion

Iranian Ash Reshteh is more than a soup—it's a symbol of tradition, community, and renewal. Its rich, herbaceous flavor and heartwarming aroma make it a perfect seasonal recipe to enjoy with loved ones.