All posts filed under: PERSIAN FOOD

Shirini Ghandi Qazvin - Simple Persian Sugar Cookies

Shirini Ghandi Qazvin – Simple Persian Sugar Cookies

Today, I’m opening the fifth door of the Culinary Advent Calendar from 1x umrühren bitte, aka Kochtopf.me, and behind it is a sweet treat from Iran: Shirini Ghandi Qazvin – Simple Persian Sugar Cookies (شیرینی قزوین) or Nan-e Ghandi (نون قندی). These little cookies are so delicate they practically melt in your mouth, and they’re super easy to whip up. You only need a handful of ingredients: flour, powdered sugar, shortening or coconut fat (the original is made with Ghee), and cardamom. It’s this simplicity that makes them special. Cardamom gives them a unique flavor, but if you’re not into that, they’re just as tasty with a splash of vanilla extract. The mix of cardamom scent and the gentle sweetness makes them stand out. The cool thing? You don’t have to let the dough rise, rest, or chill. So, give the recipe for these yummy Shirini Ghandi a try and see how they turn out! Watch my preparation video on Instagram

Gerdoo Polo – Walnut Rice with Barberries, Raisins and Saffron

Gerdoo Polo – Walnut Rice with Barberries, Raisins and Saffron

Do you want an amazing aroma wafting through your kitchen? Gerdoo Polo, also known as Walnut Rice with Barberries, Raisins and Saffron, is the dish you need. It blends the cozy flavors of cinnamon, cumin, and cardamom just right. The walnuts add a rich nuttiness that really shines in Persian cuisine. Coming from the charming city of Shahr-e Kord, this dish is perfect as a side for meats or veggies. Plus, it makes a fantastic vegetarian main course, whether it’s for a cozy dinner or to impress guests at a festive gathering! Watch my preparation video on Instagram

Soup-e-Pesteh – Persian Pistachio Soup

Soup-e-Pesteh – Persian Pistachio Soup

This Soup-e-Pesteh – Persian Pistachio Soup سوپ پسته is super easy to make and is loaded with healthy fats and proteins. It’s perfect for nourishing your body and giving your soul a little comfort. With its creamy texture and nutty flavor, this soup really stands out. It’s a fantastic starter for your Christmas or New Year’s Eve dinner and works great as a late-night dish for your New Year’s buffet. So if you’re looking to add something festive and healthy to your holiday spread, this pistachio soup is just the thing!

Vegan Khoresht-e Fesenjan

Vegan Khoresht-e Fesenjan

On Shab-e Yalda, the longest night of the year, Khoresht-e Fesenjan steals the show. In Iran, this night is all about celebrating with family and friends, and you can’t have a proper gathering without this delicious stew. While it’s usually made with meat, I’m sharing my Vegan Khoresht-e Fesenjan, which I’ve been making for my kids during Christmas for ages. They absolutely love the mix of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. It’s super simple to whip up, but you’ll need to be patient because it seriously gets better the longer you let it simmer on low heat. So, why not give it a try? You might just end up with a new favorite dish that becomes a cherished tradition in your home too. Enjoy the rich and diverse flavors of this Persian treat! Watch my preparation video on Instagram

Persian Red Onion Salad with Sumac

Persian Red Onion Salad with Sumac

You ever find those small side dishes that can really amp up a meal from “good” to “wow”? For me, it’s definitely Persian Red Onion Salad with Sumac! It’s fresh, tangy, and adds a cool Middle Eastern twist that can take any dish to the next level. The best part? It’s super easy to whip up, so you’ll want to have it around all the time. Whether you use it as a topping, a side, or just a little flavor boost, it goes great with almost anything. Persian Red Onion Salad with Sumac, or what I like to call Sumac Onions, is a kitchen must-have! Watch my preparation video on Instagram

4 Easy Ways to Remove Pomegranate Seeds

4 Easy Ways to Remove Pomegranate Seeds

You ever have that moment with a pomegranate? You’re just holding it, admiring that deep red, shiny skin and picturing those juicy, ruby-red seeds inside. Then reality hits: how do you get those seeds out without making a huge mess in the kitchen? No worries—I’ve got some awesome tips to make de-seeding pomegranates super easy and totally mess-free! Watch my preparation video on Instagram

Persian Vermicelli Soup

Persian Vermicelli Soup

As the days get shorter and the air gets cooler, there’s nothing like enjoying a hot bowl of soup. In Iran, we love our Persian Vermicelli Soup (Soup-e Vermicelli ba Morgh) – it’s a classic dish in every Persian home that warms you up. It’s simple but flavorful, bringing together tender chicken broth, delicate vermicelli noodles, fresh veggies, and fragrant herbs. The smell takes me back to those cozy evenings in Tehran, gathered around the table with family after a long day. Want to bring that warmth into your home? Give this recipe a try and see how this hearty soup can win you over! Watch my preparation video on Instagram

Mahi Kabab ba Somagh – Sumac Roasted Fish

Mahi Kabab ba Somagh – Sumac Roasted Fish

Sometimes, a single scent or bite can awaken cherished memories. For me, it’s the irresistible aroma of Mahi Kabab ba Somagh – Sumac Roasted Fish that instantly transports me back to the shores of the Caspian Sea (Shomal). Our summer holidays were filled with long days by the water, often ending in cozy seaside huts. There, we enjoyed “Mahi-e Kababi” – freshly caught whole fish, grilled right before our eyes and served with crusty bread, sumac onions, and a squeeze of lemon. Today, I recreate that flavor in my kitchen – effortlessly and in no time. Using my contact grill, I can prepare Mahi Kabab ba Somagh – Sumac Roasted Fish – in just 10 minutes. Try it for yourself and bring the taste of the Caspian Sea to your plate! Watch my preparation Video on Instagram

Eshkeneh – Persian Onion and Egg Drop Soup

Eshkeneh – Persian Onion and Egg Drop Soup

There’s nothing better than a warm, comforting bowl of soup, when the weather gets cold, and the days become shorter. You want to try an easy peasy home made cheap fat-burner soup? Let me introduce you to Eshkeneh – Persian Onion and Egg Drop Soup that is both flavorful and nourishing. This simple yet satisfying dish is sure to become your new favorite comfort food! So, the next time you’re craving something savory and delicious, try this Persian classic. You’ll be amazed at how a few simple ingredients can come together to create a truly satisfying meal! Watch my preparation video on Instagram 

Khoresht-e Beh Aloo – Quince, Prune and Beef Stew

Khoresht-e Beh Aloo – Quince, Prune and Beef Stew

Imagine it’s a rainy day outside, with the autumn wind playfully whistling around the houses. But inside the kitchen, it’s a whole different story—cozy and warm! In your pot, a delicious Khoresht-e Beh Aloo – Quince, Prune and Beef Stew —is gently simmering away. The mouthwatering aroma wafts through the air, so inviting that anyone passing by can’t help but peek in! As the stew cooks, the beef turns tender, and the sweet quinces soak up all those amazing flavors. A sprinkle of cinnamon on the quinces adds a lovely warmth, while the golden plums bring a delightful tartness. Oh, and let’s not forget the pomegranate paste—it gives the dish an irresistible sweet-and-sour twist! The scent that fills the room is simply heavenly: the warm notes of quinces and cinnamon blend with the gentle sweetness of saffron and grape syrup. It’s truly a masterpiece of Persian cuisine, bringing together sweet and savory flavors in the most delightful way. This stew is like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket, making you feel right at home. Watch …