Now that you’ve decided to have a trip to Iran, you must know about the most joyful part of it; the Iranian cuisine. Every country or region depending on its variety of ethnic groups and old customs, as well as, geographical resources and the neighboring culture impacts has reached to its exclusive recipes which after decades or even centuries passed, it has become part of the culture they are known with. Persian foods have been no exception, either. To achieve a balanced taste, characteristic Persian flavorings such as saffron, dried lime, cinnamon, and parsley are mixed delicately and used in some special dishes. Onion and garlic are commonly used in the preparation of the accompanying course but also served separately during meals, either in raw or pickled form. No trip to Iran is complete without trying these foods. We call Iran “the four-season country”. It is the home for various ethnics; each of them has a rich background and culture to introduce; evidently, part of this culture reflects in their food and eating customs. Let’s have a look at the best Persian food; those that are famous and popular among either Iranian themselves or the tourists who had paid a visit to this beautiful territory.
Kebab
Kebab was invented in Iran during the reign of Nasser Al-Din Shah Qajar. At first, the Kebab was an aristocratic food. It was mostly served by the royal family and the court and at imperial celebrations. Still, later Kebab became a Bazaar food with many customers from the shopkeepers. Today, Kebab is served in every Iranian home and is one of the most common foods on the Iranian food list. Persians love their Chelokabob with slices of raw onions and fresh herbs. The national dish of Iran, kebab has varieties such as chickenو Koobideh (ground beef or lamb), Chenjeh & Barg (pieces of meat such as lamb or beef with vegetables on a skewer and is then grilled). Traditionally Kabab is served with hot Persian Steamed Rice.
Dizi
Dizi Sangi, which is also called “Abgousht”, is one of the most traditional and tasty food which is popular among Iranians and travelers who taste this rich and delicious food for the first time. Considered the most famous Persian food, Dizi is a hearty and flavorful stew made with lamb or beef, chickpeas, white beans, potatoes, tomatoes, and various aromatic herbs and spices. Dizi is traditionally served in two parts: first as a soup accompanied by flatbread, and then the remaining ingredients are mashed together to form a delicious paste.
Gormeh Sabzi
Ghormeh Sabzi can be called an entirely Iranian dish and is a stew that is a harmonious blend of fresh herbs, meat, beans and dried limes is a cornerstone of Persian cuisine. this food which has a place of honor at the Iranian’s table is the unofficial national dish for many Iranians and is widely celebrated as one of the most beloved dishes in Persian cuisine.
Fesenjoon
Fesenjoon is a concoction of pomegranate paste, ground walnuts, onions, and poultry. Fesenjoon takes about five hours of boiling to achieve perfection. But the taste can stay with you for a lifetime. Taste this food as one of the most beloved Iranian stews but also a taste of Persian heritage.
Geymeh
Geymeh consists of split yellow peas, small cubes of beef and whole dried lime cooked with nutmeg and cinnamon and topped with French fries. Some even like to include eggplant, transforming this dish into Geymeh Bademjan. This food is sure to satisfy your tummy at any time.
Ash-e Reshte
Ash Reshteh is a classic Persian noodle soup with beans and herbs that is intensely aromatic, amazingly delicious, nutrient rich and a wholesome meal by itself. This heart healthy soup features noodles with various herbs and legumes. two uniquely Persian ingredients i.e. reshteh and kashk (a form of drained yogurt) give ash a distinct, satisfying flavor. Kashk, and a mixture of garlic & onions fried with dried mint are added to this Ash. It is appreciated at festive times such as the Persian new year, but it is also served around the year.
