Ashure

Ashure is a traditional Turkish and Azerbaijani dessert made from a mixture of rice, water, sugar, and mastic, typically served on the eve of Nowruz, the Persian New Year. The dessert is also known as Ashura or Sholeh Zard.

The ingredients used to make Ashure are simple, consisting of rice, sugar, butter, mastic, and rose water. However, the proportions of the ingredients and the method of preparation can vary depending on the region and individual recipe. Some variations add nuts, dried fruits, or other flavorings to the dessert.

According to Persian tradition, Ashure is made to commemorate the story of Noah's Ark and the sacrifice he made to save his family and the animals from the great flood. The dessert is said to represent the unity of people and the coming together of families during the Nowruz celebrations.

The term "Ashure" is derived from the word "Ashura," which refers to the tenth day of the month of Muharram in the Islamic calendar. This day is commemorated to mark the martyrdom of Imam Hussein and is a day of mourning for Shia Muslims.

Ashure is typically served warm in a large bowl, with each serving symbolic of the abundant harvests and fertility of the coming year. The dessert is a significant part of the Nowruz celebrations, representing hope, renewal, and the cycle of life.