Persian Noodle Soup Recipe (Ash Reshteh)

Persian noodle soup, or Ash Reshteh, is a delightful blend of legumes, herbs, and noodles that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This dish is perfect for gatherings, cozy dinners, or even as a nourishing lunch option. Its rich flavors and vibrant colors make it not just a meal but an experience, showcasing the beauty of Persian cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with legumes and greens, this soup is a great source of protein and fiber.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you can whip up this comforting dish in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of spices and fresh herbs creates a deliciously aromatic soup that will impress your family and friends.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it hot for lunch or dinner, or enjoy it as a starter at a festive gathering.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delightful Persian noodle soup recipe, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Pot: Ideal for cooking the soup evenly without splattering. It provides ample space for all ingredients.
• Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot. It helps mix the ingredients thoroughly.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when chopping vegetables and herbs.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients efficiently.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 6 cups vegetable broth

For the Legumes

• 1 cup lentils, rinsed
• 1 cup chickpeas, cooked
• 1 cup navy beans, cooked
• 1 cup kidney beans, cooked

For the Noodles and Greens

• ½ pound Persian noodles or linguine
• 3 cups spinach, chopped
• 1 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1 cup parsley, chopped
• 1 cup dill, chopped

To Finish

• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sour cream or yogurt, for serving
• Fried onions, for garnish

How to Make Persian Noodle Soup Recipe (Ash Reshteh)

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft and translucent.

Step 2: Add Spices

Stir in minced garlic and turmeric, cooking for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Broth and Legumes

Pour in the vegetable broth. Add lentils, chickpeas, navy beans, and kidney beans. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Noodles

Add Persian noodles (or linguine) to the pot. Cook for an additional 10 minutes or until noodles are tender.

Step 5: Incorporate Greens

Add chopped spinach, cilantro, parsley, and dill. Stir well and cook for another 5–7 minutes until the greens have wilted.

Step 6: Final Seasoning

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle soup into bowls. Top with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt along with a sprinkle of fried onions. Enjoy your flavorful Persian noodle soup!

How to Serve Persian Noodle Soup Recipe (Ash Reshteh)

Serving Persian noodle soup, or Ash Reshteh, is an opportunity to create a warm and inviting meal experience. This dish is not just about the flavors; it’s also about the presentation and accompaniments that enhance its enjoyment.

With a Dollop of Cream or Yogurt

• Adding sour cream or yogurt on top adds a creamy texture and balances the soup’s flavors.

Topped with Fried Onions

• Garnishing with fried onions provides a delicious crunch and enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Accompanied by Fresh Bread

• Serve with crusty bread or pita to soak up the rich broth, making each bite satisfying.

Paired with Fresh Herbs

• Include extra fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley on the side for guests who love fresh flavors in their soup.

Served in Deep Bowls

• Using deep bowls allows for generous servings and keeps the soup warm longer, making it perfect for sharing.

How to Perfect Persian Noodle Soup Recipe (Ash Reshteh)

Perfecting your Ash Reshteh involves attention to detail in preparation and cooking. Follow these tips to elevate your noodle soup experience.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables enhance flavor significantly compared to dried ones.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper based on personal preference for a more customized flavor.
• Cook legumes properly: Ensure lentils and beans are cooked until tender but not mushy for optimal texture in your soup.
• Don’t overcook noodles: Add noodles towards the end of cooking to prevent them from becoming too soft.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add a pinch of cumin or coriander for additional depth in flavor.
• Allow resting time: Letting the soup sit for a few minutes before serving helps meld all the flavors beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Persian Noodle Soup Recipe (Ash Reshteh)

Pairing side dishes with your Ash Reshteh can create a delightful meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Saffron Rice: Lightly flavored rice infused with saffron, providing a fragrant complement to the soup.
2. Stuffed Grape Leaves: These delicious bites filled with rice and herbs add texture and flavor contrast.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made from diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs that cuts through the richness of the soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized bring out their natural sweetness alongside the savory soup.
5. Fattoush Salad: A Middle Eastern salad featuring crispy pita chips, mixed greens, and tangy dressing that brightens up the meal.
6. Herbed Flatbread: Soft flatbreads infused with herbs are perfect for dipping into your hearty noodle soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Persian noodle soup can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Keep these in mind to ensure your Persian Noodle Soup Recipe (Ash Reshteh) turns out perfectly.

• Using old legumes: Freshness matters! Old lentils or beans can take longer to cook, affecting the soup’s texture. Always check the expiration date and opt for new supplies.

• Overcooking the noodles: Noodles can become mushy if overcooked. Follow the instructions closely and add them towards the end of cooking time.

• Not seasoning enough: Under-seasoned soup can taste bland. Taste your soup as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.

• Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh herbs elevate the flavor of your soup dramatically. Don’t skip them; they are essential for that authentic Ash Reshteh taste.

• Neglecting to sauté aromatics: Sautéing onions and garlic enhances their flavors. Make sure to cook them until soft before adding liquids.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The soup will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Persian Noodle Soup Recipe (Ash Reshteh)

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Persian Noodle Soup Recipe (Ash Reshteh)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Persian Noodle Soup Recipe (Ash Reshteh) that may help you prepare this delightful dish.

Can I use different beans in the Persian Noodle Soup Recipe?

Yes! You can substitute with any beans you have on hand, such as black beans or pinto beans, but keep the total bean quantity similar for balance.

What is the best way to serve Persian Noodle Soup?

Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt on top, garnished with fried onions for added texture and flavor.

How long does it take to make Persian Noodle Soup?

The total time is approximately 55 minutes, including prep and cooking time. It’s quite quick for a hearty meal!

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly. Using vegetable broth makes it suitable for all plant-based diets.

Final Thoughts

This Persian Noodle Soup Recipe (Ash Reshteh) is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients from legumes and fresh herbs. It’s a versatile dish that allows for customization based on your ingredient preferences. Try experimenting with different greens or spices to make it your own!