Veronica's Kitchen Day 24: Anoush Abour

We are just a day away from wrapping up in Veronica's Kitchen. And since 2014 is just around the corner, it is only appropriate to share this Armenian inspired dessert recipe with you.

Quite literally translated as, "Sweet Soup",  Anoush Abour is an Armenian pudding traditionally prepared for the new year. We'd enjoy this treat with family as each of us would share something we were thankful for in the past year, and one thing we'd like to change in the new year.

So, here is Veronica's version of Anoush Abour.
Note: This recipe requires an overnight prep.

Anoush Abour

• 1 1/2 cup whole grain wheat (wheat berries)
• 3 quarts water
• 1 cup dried apricot, coarsely chopped or sliced
• 1 cup golden raisins
• 1 1/4 cup caster sugar(may also use granulated sugar)
• 2 cups of mixed raw nuts (e.g. walnuts, blanched whole or sliced almonds, pignolis)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Rinse wheat with cold water.
In a 6-quart pot, combine wheat and water. Bring to a boil.
After 5 minute boil, remove from heat, cover, and rest overnight.
Remove cover,  and bring to simmer. (This will help thicken the water and create the pudding-like consistency), After about 1 hour of simmering, add sugar, stir, and continue to simmer for another 1/2 hour. Add the apricots, raisins, cinnamon, and simmer for another 1/2 hour.

Pour pudding into a large, casserole-type shallow dish, or into individual serving dishes. Decorate with nuts, and cinnamon. Serve warm, or at room temperature.