NOAH’S PUDDING

Noah’s pudding is a dessert porridge that is made of a mixture consisting of grains, fruits, dried fruits, and nuts.[1]

History and traditions

In anecdotal history, it is claimed that when Noah’s Ark came to rest on Mount Ararat, Noah’s family celebrated with this special dish. Since their supplies were nearly exhausted, what was left was cooked together to form this pudding. It is now called Noah’s Pudding. In Turkish tradition, this dish is made mostly on the 10th of Muharram or after in Islamic Lunar Calendar. The association with Muharram is not only significant in Islamic beliefs but also pre-Islamic beliefs, with some Semitic stories also referencing this month.

Ingredients

Noah’s Pudding porridge does not have a single recipe, as recipes vary between regions and families.

Traditionally, it is said to have at least seven ingredients. Some say at least ten ingredients must be used, in keeping with the theme of “tenth”. Wheat, barley, rice, white beans, chickpeas, sweetener, dates, pomegranates, beets, dried fruits, and nuts are among these. However, many renditions add orange and lemon peel to add depth to the pudding. Anise seed, pine nuts, black cumin seeds, pomegranate kernels, pistachios, almonds, walnuts, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and allspice may be used as a garnish. Some variations are flavored with rose water.

In most cases, it is vegan. And, it is one of the well-known and the most popular vegan desserts in Turkish cuisine. It was traditionally made and eaten during the colder months of the year due to its heavy and calorie-rich nature. Now it is enjoyed year-round.

Turkish families make Noah’s pudding to commemorate this event. Among Turkish and Balkan families, Noah’s pudding is prepared with special prayers for health, healing, safety, success, and spiritual nourishment. It is distributed to the poor, as well as to neighbors, friends, and relatives.