Spas (soup): Difference between revisions

Latest revision as of 11:01, 15 February 2025

Traditional Armenian yogurt soup

Spas (soup)[edit]

Spas is a traditional Armenian soup made primarily from yogurt, wheat, and herbs. It is a staple in Armenian households and is often served as a comforting dish during cold weather. The soup is known for its creamy texture and tangy flavor, which is derived from the yogurt base.

Ingredients[edit]

The main ingredients of Spas include:

Preparation[edit]

Spas is traditionally prepared by first cooking the wheat or bulgur until it is soft. The yogurt is then mixed with an egg and whisked to create a smooth consistency. This mixture is added to the cooked wheat, and the soup is gently heated to avoid curdling the yogurt. Butter is melted and added to the soup, along with finely chopped herbs, salt, and pepper. The soup is simmered until it reaches the desired thickness and flavor.

Serving[edit]

Spas can be served hot or cold, depending on personal preference and the season. It is often garnished with additional herbs and sometimes a sprinkle of paprika for added color and flavor. In Armenia, Spas is commonly enjoyed with lavash, a traditional Armenian flatbread.

Cultural significance[edit]

Spas holds a special place in Armenian culture as a symbol of hospitality and comfort. It is often prepared for family gatherings and special occasions. The soup's simplicity and reliance on locally available ingredients reflect the resourcefulness and culinary traditions of the Armenian people.

Related pages[edit]

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-'''Spas''' (also known as '''Spa''' or '''Sour Milk Soup''') is a traditional Armenian soup made from fermented milk product, typically matzoon or yogurt, and a variety of grains. It is often served as a starter or a light meal and is particularly popular during the summer months due to its refreshing qualities.
+{{Short description|Traditional Armenian yogurt soup}}
+{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}
-== Ingredients and Preparation ==
+==Spas (soup)==
+[[File:Armenian_Spas_Soup.jpg|thumb|right|A bowl of traditional Armenian Spas soup]]
+'''Spas''' is a traditional [[Armenian cuisine|Armenian]] soup made primarily from [[yogurt]], [[wheat]], and [[herbs]]. It is a staple in Armenian households and is often served as a comforting dish during cold weather. The soup is known for its creamy texture and tangy flavor, which is derived from the yogurt base.
-The main ingredient in Spas is [[matzoon]] or [[yogurt]], which gives the soup its characteristic sour taste. Other common ingredients include [[wheat]], [[barley]], or [[rice]], which are used to thicken the soup and provide texture. Some variations of the recipe also include [[egg]]s, [[butter]], and [[herbs]] such as [[dill]] or [[mint]] for added flavor.
+==Ingredients==
+The main ingredients of Spas include:
+* [[Yogurt]]
+* [[Wheat]] or [[bulgur]]
+* [[Egg]]
+* [[Butter]]
+* [[Herbs]] such as [[coriander]], [[dill]], and [[mint]]
+* [[Salt]] and [[pepper]]
-To prepare Spas, the grains are first soaked in water until they are soft. The matzoon or yogurt is then heated in a pot, and the grains are added. The mixture is stirred continuously to prevent the yogurt from curdling. Once the soup has thickened, it is removed from the heat and allowed to cool before serving.
+==Preparation==
+Spas is traditionally prepared by first cooking the wheat or bulgur until it is soft. The yogurt is then mixed with an egg and whisked to create a smooth consistency. This mixture is added to the cooked wheat, and the soup is gently heated to avoid curdling the yogurt. Butter is melted and added to the soup, along with finely chopped herbs, salt, and pepper. The soup is simmered until it reaches the desired thickness and flavor.
-== Cultural Significance ==
+==Serving==
+Spas can be served hot or cold, depending on personal preference and the season. It is often garnished with additional herbs and sometimes a sprinkle of [[paprika]] for added color and flavor. In Armenia, Spas is commonly enjoyed with [[lavash]], a traditional Armenian flatbread.
-Spas is a staple in [[Armenian cuisine]], and it is often served during traditional Armenian feasts and celebrations. It is also commonly consumed during the fasting period of [[Lent]] in the [[Armenian Apostolic Church]], as it is free from animal products.
+==Cultural significance==
+Spas holds a special place in Armenian culture as a symbol of hospitality and comfort. It is often prepared for family gatherings and special occasions. The soup's simplicity and reliance on locally available ingredients reflect the resourcefulness and culinary traditions of the Armenian people.
-In addition to its role in Armenian cuisine, Spas has also gained popularity in other parts of the world. It is often featured in the menus of Armenian and Middle Eastern restaurants in Europe and North America.
-== Variations ==
-While the basic recipe for Spas remains the same, there are many regional variations of the soup. In some parts of Armenia, for example, Spas is made with [[bulgur]] instead of wheat or barley. In others, the soup is flavored with [[garlic]] or [[onion]].
-There are also variations of Spas in other cuisines. In Turkish cuisine, for example, a similar soup called [[Ayran Aşı]] is made with yogurt and barley.
-== See Also ==
+==Related pages==
 * [[Armenian cuisine]]
-* [[List of soups]]
+* [[Yogurt]]
-* [[List of yogurt-based dishes and beverages]]
+* [[Bulgur]]
+* [[Lavash]]
+[[Category:Armenian soups]]
 [[Category:Armenian cuisine]]
-[[Category:Soups]]
 [[Category:Yogurt-based dishes]]
-{{Armenian cuisine}}
-{{List of soups}}
-{{food-stub}}