Noah's Pudding: An Ancient Tradition

"Next Saturday is the 10th of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar. That is to say Noah's Pudding Day. If you have been submerged into mundane activities and have forgotten that Muharram 10th is approaching, shops selling legumes, herbs and dried fruit shops will hang "Noah's pudding" recipes at the most visible places this week, and hence, remind us of how close this day is. Ladies, who respect this day will be involved in a secret, but sweet "keeping up" with each other just to have a whiter and more delicious Noah's pudding. Neighbors will knock on each other's doors and very delicious Noah's puddings will be presented. It is true that the number of homes, where Noah's pudding is being prepared is gradually decreasing every year, nonetheless, this custom, with different layers of meaning encoded in it, as well as an ancient tradition, continues to preserve its spirit and vitality, even though it has lost several original aspects, belonging its ancient ceremonial patterns, during the modern ages."

ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER (2005021816701)