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Homemade Ashure (Varvara photo

Ashure (Varvara)

This Ashure (Varvara) is a heartwarming dessert full of rich flavors and textures, perfect for sharing with loved ones!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Turkish
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Ashure:
  • 1 cup Wheat Berries rinsed and soaked overnight
  • 1 cup Chickpeas canned, rinsed
  • 6 cups Water
  • ½ cup Rice rinsed
  • ½ cup Dried Apricots chopped
  • ½ cup Dried Figs chopped
  • ½ cup Raisins
  • ¾ cup Sugar adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
  • 1 pinch Cloves
  • Zest of 1 Orange
  • ¼ cup Walnuts chopped, for garnish
  • ¼ cup Pistachios chopped, for garnish
  • ½ cup Fresh Pomegranate Seeds for garnish

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting Board and Knife
  • Serving bowls
  • Chill Storage Containers

Method
 

Instructions:
  1. Start by rinsing 1 cup of wheat berries and soaking them in water overnight. This will help to soften them and reduce cooking time.
  2. In a large pot, combine the soaked wheat berries with 6 cups of water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. Meanwhile, rinse 1 cup of canned chickpeas and add them to the pot after the initial 30 minutes.
  3. After the wheat and chickpeas have cooked, stir in ½ cup of rinsed rice. Continue to simmer for an additional 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. Chop ½ cup each of dried apricots and figs. Add them to the pot along with ½ cup of raisins, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of cloves. Stir well and let it cook for another 10 minutes.
  5. Add ¾ cup of sugar to the pot, adjusting to taste. Stir until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture has thickened.
  6. Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool slightly. Stir in the zest of one orange for a burst of citrus flavor.
  7. Pour the Ashure (Varvara) into individual serving bowls. Top with a sprinkle of chopped walnuts and pistachios, as well as fresh pomegranate seeds for a gorgeous presentation.

Notes

  • Allow the Ashure to cool at room temperature for about an hour before refrigerating.
  • Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to one week.
  • If you prefer it warm, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the consistency as needed.