MAKE A WISH

A ritual that is specific to women-only gatherings in Iran inspired this project. These gatherings are often initiated because of a problem that someone faces. She will gather all women to help her make noodle soup, which symbolizes the passing of problems. She invites all women to have soup together to wish for her problem and their own problems to pass. The making of this soup initiates moments of sharing for women; from when women prepare the vegetables, to moments that women make this soup.

During this performance people gathered around a pot of soup and shared their wishes with each other. Women were given different tasks during this performance from adding legumes to passing bowls, spoons, and napkins. Once the soup was ready people were invited to create a line; women in the front and men in the back to get soup.

Bars that were connected to walls acted as people’s tables. It was an indirect reference to Persian/Islamic manners that one should be quite when one eats. The time of making the food is the time of socializing and the time of eating is when one appreciates food and one's privileges.

Photos by Lauren Sudbrink

4 Medium Onion
2 Garlic Cloves
15 oz Chickpeas, Kidney Beans, Lentils
1 bunch Leek Chives, Cilantro, Dill, Parsley, Spinach
1.5 Tsp Salt
Turmeric
14 oz egg-free Noodles
Whey
Dry mint
Vegetable Oil

PREPARATIONS:
Fry onions, garlic, and mint with turmeric
Mince vegetables
Pre-cook legumes
Boil 5 cups water

DIRECTIONS:

Add vegetables to a boiling water, let it cook for 45 minutes
Add 1/4 of fry onions, and mint to vegetables
Add noodles, let it simmer for 20 minutes, stir occasionally
Add the legumes to the pot, let it simmer for another 30 minutes, stir constantly
Make wishes while stirring
Add salt
Garnish with fried onions, mint, garlic, and whey