The Sıcacık Basin of Erzurum: Kesme Aşı Soup
On a cold winter day, with snow falling outside, imagine a magical bowl of soup that will keep you wonderfully warm! Meet Kesme Aşı, the famous soup of Erzurum — exactly that kind of soup. Known not only for its delicious flavor but also for its nourishing qualities, it is one of the most beloved dishes at family tables in Erzurum. Let’s uncover this tasty secret of Anatolia together and dip our spoons into this warm adventure!
What Is This Delicious Soup?
Kesme Aşı is a traditional Erzurum soup named after the homemade pasta pieces it contains. It is also sometimes called “lentil pasta soup.” Its most important ingredients are green lentils and “kesme” — pasta pieces cut by hand at home, typically by mothers or grandmothers. When these two key ingredients come together, they create a soup that is both deeply satisfying and rich in vitamins. This flavor is like a cherished family heirloom passed down through generations.
The Culinary Adventure: How Is It Made?
Making Kesme Aşı is like embarking on a delightful journey in the kitchen. First, the green lentils are gently boiled until tender. Then, the star performers of this flavorful journey — the hand-cut kesme pasta — are added to the pot to join the lentils. As they float happily in the broth, a separate pan is used to melt butter until it smells like heaven. Onions are sautéed until they turn pink, and spices such as mint are added. When this sizzling sauce is poured over the soup, it fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma. This final touch is the greatest secret behind the soup’s unforgettable taste. You too can try this recipe with help from an elder in your family.
The Superhero of Cold Days
In Erzurum, winters are extremely cold, so people rely on nourishing meals to stay warm and regain energy. Kesme Aşı is a true energy powerhouse thanks to its lentils and dough. That is why, on cold days, it comes to people’s rescue like a superhero. Just one bowl is enough to warm the body and make you feel stronger. When served alongside a piece of warm bread, the pleasure is complete.
