Best Afghan New Year Dried Fruit Medley Haft Mewa Recipes
HAFT MEWA (SEVEN FRUITS)
Haft mewa, which means seven fruits in Persian, is a symbolic compote of dried fruits and nuts traditionally prepared for Afghan Nowruz, the celebration of the new year and vernal equinox. Durkhania Ayubi shared this version in her cookbook, "Parwana: Recipes and Stories From an Afghan Kitchen." She received the recipe from her mother, Farida Ayubi, who grew up making it in Afghanistan and continued the tradition with her family in their adopted home of Adelaide, Australia. Different types of nuts and fruits, which sometimes number more than seven despite the dish's name, are soaked in water for two days to allow the fruits to plump up and release their natural juices. The nuts are peeled so they don't make the syrup bitter and murky.
Provided by Naz Deravian
Categories snack, dessert
Time P2DT9h30m
Yield 6 servings
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- Bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Place each variety of nut in a separate medium heatproof bowl and cover each variety with some of the just-boiled water. Soak the almonds and pistachios for about 1 hour, and soak the walnuts overnight (if using) to help the skins peel off. Almond and pistachio skins slip off fairly easily; walnuts take more effort. Once the skins are softened, drain the nuts and use your fingers to rub off the skins. Rinse the peeled nuts and place them all in one bowl.
- In a medium pot with a lid, bring 5 cups of water to a boil. Remove from the heat and carefully add the nuts and all of the dried fruits to the pot. Cover and set aside to cool at room temperature. Once cool, cover and refrigerate for 48 hours to allow the flavors to fully develop.
- Serve chilled, ladling some syrupy soaking liquid into each bowl. Be mindful that the senjed and whole dried apricots have seeds. Haft mewa will keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
AFGHAN NEW YEAR DRIED FRUIT MEDLEY, HAFT MEWA
"Haft Mewa is a compote made from seven different dried fruits and nuts served in their own juices. Traditionally the seven ingredients are as follows: red raisins, black raisins, yellow raisins, senjid (the dried fruit of the oleaster tree), pistachio, dried apricot, and dried apple. This is not a traditional recipe but it is very delicious and don't fret about the ingredients. This is a very flexible recipe, just use dried fruit and nuts that you have in your pantry!" Recipe found on http://www.afghancooking.net
Provided by UmmBinat
Categories Breakfast
Time 49m
Yield 6 , 6 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- In addition you must have a large (at least 5 pints) lidded container with a wide mouth.
- Begin by blanching the walnuts and pistachios. Bring 3 cups of water to a boil, remove from the heat, add the walnuts and pistachios, cover and let it sit for 20 minutes. In the meantime in a large bowl add both kinds of raisins, cherries and apricots. Rinse three times in cold water to remove any residue.
- When the nuts are ready, pour the hot water out and add cold water. That way you won't burn your hands. Peel the skin off the nuts using the best method you can muster up. I must admit, the pistachios were a dream but the walnuts take patience! I found if you have a whole walnut, break it in half and then start peeling. It really makes it easier. Perhaps recruit family members to help. Make sure all the skin is removed from the pistachios and the walnuts, no exception!
- Add the dried fruit and the nuts to the container along with the rosewater and 5 cups of cold water. Stir well. The water should be at lead 1 inch above the ingredients. Refrigerate for 2-4 days. The longer you leave it the sweeter it gets. It will keep in the fridge for up to 7 days.
- Serve in a bowl with its juices. I also think it would taste wonderful on vanilla ice cream or plain yogurt.
- Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts : Calories 318.9, Fat 20.4, SaturatedFat 1.9, Sodium 11.2, Carbohydrate 32.4, Fiber 5.6, Sugar 22, Protein 8.2
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Afghan New Year Dried Fruit Medley Haft Mewa Recipes
Afghan cuisine is known for its rich and diverse flavors and the country's traditional dishes are enjoyed around the world. One dish that is particularly popular during the Afghan New Year celebrations is the Haft Mewa, which is a dried fruit medley that has significant cultural and symbolic significance. The Haft Mewa is a traditional Afghan dish that is served during the Norouz or Afghan New Year celebration, which takes place in March. The dish is a medley of seven different types of dried fruits, which are arranged in a specific pattern that is symbolic of the seven creations of God in the Zoroastrian religion.The Significance of Haft Mewa in Afghan Culture
The Haft Mewa is not simply a dish, but a representation of Afghan culture, traditions, and beliefs. The seven different fruits represent the seven creations of God, which are water, earth, plants, animals, humans, fire, and heavens. Each fruit represents a specific creation, and the arrangement of the fruits represents the order in which they were created. The Haft Mewa is also a symbol of prosperity and good luck, and it is believed that consuming it during the New Year festivities brings good fortune for the year ahead. In addition, the dish is a great source of nutrition and energy, and it is an important part of the Norouz celebrations, which mark the beginning of spring.The Ingredients of Haft Mewa
The ingredients of the Haft Mewa vary depending on the region and individual preferences. However, the most common fruits used in the dish include: 1. Raisins 2. Apricots 3. Pistachios 4. Almonds 5. Walnuts 6. Dates 7. Figs These fruits are chosen for their nutritional value, which includes carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. They are also chosen for their symbolic significance, each representing a creation of God.Preparing Haft Mewa
The preparation of Haft Mewa is a simple and straightforward process that involves cleaning and sorting the fruits, arranging them in a specific pattern, and serving them with tea or other drinks. Each fruit is arranged in a specific location on the dish, with raisins placed in the center and the other fruits arranged clockwise around the edge of the dish. The dish is traditionally served in a large decorative container, which is passed around to family and friends during the New Year celebrations. It is customary for each person to take a handful of the fruits as a symbolic gesture, which is believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the year ahead.The Health Benefits of Haft Mewa
Haft Mewa is not only a delicious and symbolic dish, but it is also a great source of nutrition and health benefits. The different fruits used in the dish provide a variety of essential nutrients, including fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Raisins are a rich source of fiber and antioxidants, which help to protect against heart disease and cancer. Apricots are a good source of vitamin A and potassium, which are important for healthy vision, skin, and bones. Pistachios are rich in protein and healthy fats, which help to reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes. Almonds are a good source of protein and healthy fats, which help to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help to improve brain function and reduce inflammation in the body. Dates are a great source of potassium and fiber, which help to lower blood pressure and improve digestion. Figs are a good source of fiber and minerals, which help to improve digestion and bone health. In conclusion, Haft Mewa is a traditional and symbolic Afghan dish that is enjoyed during the Norouz or Afghan New Year celebration. The dish is a medley of seven different types of dried fruits, which are arranged in a specific pattern that is symbolic of the seven creations of God. Haft Mewa not only represents the rich and diverse flavors of Afghan cuisine, but it also provides a variety of essential nutrients and health benefits.
The Afghan New Year, also known as Nawroz, is a time for celebration and new beginnings. The festival marks the beginning of spring, and one of the traditions associated with it is the Haft Mewa, which translates to 'Seven Fruits.' People prepare and share the Haft Mewa with their friends and family, which consists of seven dried fruits and nuts. This article provides some valuable tips when making the Afghan New Year dried fruit medley Haft Mewa recipes.
Tip #1: Choose Fresh and High-Quality Dried Fruits
The first and foremost important tip is to choose fresh and high-quality dried fruits. The quality of dried fruit you use will directly impact the flavor and overall quality of your Haft Mewa. The best place to purchase dried fruits is from a trusted supplier or a reputable market. Always check the package for any signs of mold or spoilage, and make sure the fruits are not too dry or hard. Fresh and high-quality dried fruits will taste better and also last longer.
Tip #2: Soak the Dried Fruits
Soaking the dried fruits is an essential step in making Haft Mewa. Soak them overnight in water to help rehydrate them and make them easier to consume. Soaking the dried fruits will also help to remove any dust or dirt that may have accumulated. Once you have soaked the dried fruits, drain the water and let them dry for a bit before you begin placing them in the bowl or platter.
Tip #3: Mix a Variety of Dried Fruits
Haft Mewa is a combination of seven dried fruits, including raisins, apricots, prunes, figs, pistachios, almonds, and walnuts. It is essential to mix a variety of dried fruits to make the dish more palatable and add diversity to the dish. Decide the ratio of each dried fruit you want to use based on your preferences.
Tip #4: Add Seasonings
Adding seasonings to your Haft Mewa can enhance the flavor and also add depth to the dish. Add a pinch of salt or sugar to the bowl, depending on if you want it sweet or savory. Other seasonings you can add include cardamom, nutmeg, cloves, and cinnamon, which will add a subtle spice to the dish.
Tip #5: Serve with Tea
Haft Mewa tastes best when served with traditional Afghan green tea. The bitter taste of the tea and the sweetness of the dried fruits complement each other, creating a perfect combination that is both satisfying and refreshing. You can also serve Haft Mewa with other beverages such as coffee or water.
Tip #6: Presentation is Key
The presentation of the dish is as important as the taste. Take the time to arrange the dried fruits and nuts thoughtfully, creating an aesthetically pleasing display. Use a large round or square platter to display the seven fruits artfully. The platter can also be adorned with fresh flowers or other decorations that evoke the Spring season.
Tip #7: Store Properly
Dried fruits are susceptible to moisture, which can lead to spoilage, mold, and bacteria growth. To avoid this, it is essential to store the Haft Mewa in an airtight container or a zip-lock bag to prevent any moisture from entering. Keep it in a cool, dry spot in your kitchen or pantry to help preserve it.
Tip #8: Prepare in Advance
Preparation is key when it comes to Haft Mewa. Start preparing the dish a few days in advance so that the fruits have time to soak and become ripe. You can soak the fruits in large enough quantities to create multiple batches, making sure you have enough to share with your friends and family.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Afghan New Year dried fruit medley Haft Mewa is a quintessential dish during the Nawroz festival. By following these valuable tips, you can create a delicious and visually appealing dish that can be enjoyed by all. Remember to choose fresh, high-quality dried fruits, soak them overnight, mix a variety of fruits, add seasonings, serve with tea, take time to present the dish artistically, store it properly, and prepare it well in advance to ensure that you make the perfect Haft Mewa for your loved ones.