Spas (soup)

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.

Ingredients and Preparation

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 eggs, butter, and herbs such as dill or mint for added flavor.

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.

Cultural Significance

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.

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

• Armenian cuisine
• List of soups
• List of yogurt-based dishes and beverages