Aşure

A thick biblical pudding of boiled grains, legumes, dried fruits, and nuts shared generously on Muharram.

Ingredients

• 500g beef sirloin
• 1 cup simit rings
• 1 tbsp sliced scallions
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 green peppers, chopped
• a handful of fresh parsley, chopped
• a drizzle of toasted pine nuts
• 400ml beef stock
• 1/2 tsp ground sumac
• 1 cup baby potatoes, sliced

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven (or set up your steamer or frying station) and lightly grease your pan or molds with olive oil.

2. 2

   In a large bowl, whisk together the bulgur wheat and dried mint until evenly combined.

3. 3

   In a separate bowl, blend the crumbled feta with the chicken stock until smooth and well incorporated.

4. 4

   Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, taking care not to overmix.

5. 5

   Transfer everything to your prepared pan or molds and cook — bake, steam, chill, or fry — until set, about 1 hr.

6. 6

   Remove from the heat and let it cool completely; this helps the texture firm up perfectly.

7. 7

   Garnish with mint or a dusting of plain yogurt.

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