Armenian Yogurt Soup
Spas
A comforting and creamy yogurt-based soup, Spas is a classic Armenian dish often made with wheat berries or barley, giving it a hearty texture. It's seasoned with mint and can be served hot or cold.
🧂 Ingredients
- 0.5 cup Shelled wheat (dzedzadz) or farro/wheat berries/pearl barley
- 4 cups Water(for cooking wheat)
- 3 cups Plain yogurt (preferably Greek-style)
- 1.5 cups Water or low-sodium chicken broth(for soup base)
- 1 large Egg yolk(optional, for hot version)
- 2 Tbsp All-purpose flour
- 0.5 tsp Salt(to taste)
- 3 Tbsp Butter
- 0.33 medium Yellow onion(finely chopped)
- 2 tsp Dried mint, crushed
- 1 Tbsp Fresh parsley(chopped, optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Cook the shelled wheat (or substitute grain) in 4 cups of lightly salted boiling water until tender, about 25-30 minutes. Drain any excess liquid and set aside.
- 2
In a large pot, whisk together the yogurt, 1.5 cups of water (or broth), egg yolk (if using), and flour until smooth. If not using egg yolk, ensure you whisk vigorously to prevent curdling.
💡 Tip: Using Greek yogurt provides a thicker, creamier texture. - 3
Place the pot over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the soup just begins to simmer and thickens slightly. Do not boil vigorously, especially if using yogurt without egg.
- 4
Stir in the salt and the cooked wheat berries. Cook for another minute.
- 5
Meanwhile, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened and lightly golden, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the crushed dried mint (and fresh parsley, if using) and cook for 30 seconds more.
- 6
Add the sautéed onion and mint mixture to the soup. Stir to combine and simmer gently for another 5 minutes.
- 7
Serve hot, garnished with extra mint or parsley if desired. For a cold version, let the soup cool completely, then chill in the refrigerator before serving (omit the egg yolk if serving cold).
💡 Tip: Reheating leftovers requires gentle heat and constant stirring to prevent curdling.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓If the soup seems too thick, add a little more water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can use chicken broth instead of water.
- ✓Adjust the amount of mint to your preference.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add small meatballs (kufteh) to make the soup more substantial.
- Incorporate other herbs like dill or cilantro.
- For a tangier soup, add a tablespoon of sour cream.