Kashk-e Kadu – Butternut-squash-spread with whey and mint

Fall is my favorite season for a variety of reasons: the turning of the leaves, the bright and colorful fall foliage, my birthday, and the arrival of harvest time. Squashes, persimmons, quinces, and pomegranates top the list of seasonal favorites for me. I find the flavors of squashes quite appealing and when you think of…

Aash Reshteh – Persian noodle soup

Aash has always been front and center in Persian cuisine. This is a Persian term used to describe a thick style of soup that often combines a variety of beans, grains, sometimes noodles, herbs, spices, and meat. This is Aash Reshteh, one of the most popular and well-loved members of the Aash family, which has nearly…

Kashk – Persian whey sauce

Kashk is a full-fat yogurt that is cooked with water until most of the liquid is evaporated and then strained through a cheesecloth. The pulp is then rehydrated with some water and salt to create a reasonably thick sauce-like consistency. The end result is pure umami: a little salt, a lot of tang, and a…

Aash-e Jow – Barley, herbs and spinach stew with whey and mint sauce

Aash has always been front and center in Persian cuisine. This is a Persian term used to describe a thick style of soup that often combines a variety of beans, grains, sometimes noodles, herbs, spices, and meat. Aash-e Jow is a hearty Persian barley stew prepared by slowly cooking beans and grains with an abundance…