Ash-e Sholeh Zard (Persian Thick Herb and Lentil Soup)

Ash-e Sholeh Zard is a comforting Persian soup rich with herbs, lentils, and aromatic spices, perfect for a nourishing and flavorful meal.

Steps

1. Rinse the lentils and rice thoroughly under cold water. 2. In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until translucent. 3. Add turmeric, black pepper, and salt. Stir for 1 minute. 4. Add lentils, rice, and water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil. 5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. 6. Add all the chopped herbs and dried mint if using. Simmer for another 10 minutes until the soup thickens and the lentils and rice are cooked. 7. Adjust seasoning as needed. 8. Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of kashk or yogurt if desired.

50g lentils 30g rice 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 garlic clove, minced 1 tbsp olive oil 1/2 tsp turmeric 1/4 tsp black pepper Salt to taste 500ml water or vegetable broth 1 tbsp dried mint (optional) 1 tbsp kashk (fermented whey) or plain yogurt (optional)