Though not Jewish herself, Deravian loves the classic soup for its cardamom-perfumed meatballs and fragrant, turmeric-based broth.

She says, “The spices give it a depth and unique warmth.

And nutrient-rich chickpea floura common ingredient in Iranian dishesmakes the meatballs tender and satisfying.”

Gondi (Iranian Jewish Chicken Meatball Soup)

Photo: Greg DuPree

Leaving the onion juice behind, transfer the onion to a large bowl.

(Discard the juice.)

Add chicken, cardamom, 1/4 teaspoon turmeric, 1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper; combine well.

Place warm water in a small bowl next to you.

Add chickpea flour to the chicken mixture in batches, mixing with your hands.

Divide into 6 equal portions.

Refrigerate the meatballs, uncovered, for 30 minutes.

Combine broth and water in a large pot.

Bring to a boil over high heat.

Carefully add the meatballs to the broth and return to a gentle boil.

To serve, ladle about 2/3 cup broth into each bowl and add a meatball.

(The darker the color, the more potent they are.)

Buy them at Middle Eastern markets or online.

  • Daily Values (DVs) are the recommended amounts of nutrients to consume each day.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient.