Iran is the land of delicious foods and Persian cuisine is diverse, complicated and difficult to be made. Located in the Middle East, Persian food has both influenced and been influenced by its neighbors. Obviously, the modern Iranian style of cooking includes a wide variety of foods from past times to the present and finely blends some useful points of other nation´s gastronomy to be as one of the most delicious cuisines in the world. In Iran, fresh herbs, pomegranates, dried plums and prunes, raisins, apricots and saffron are generously consumed in the process of cooking, giving the food a delicate and moderate flavor, which is not too spicy, too sour, too sweet or too salty. Just follow this article to be more familiar with some favorite Iranian food.
Abgoosht (Dizi)
Abgoosht is a Persian and Mesopotamian stew. It is also called Dizi, which refers to the traditional stone crocks it is served in. It is absolutely one of the most favorite Persian food which is worth-tasting it.
Some describe it as a “hearty mutton soup thickened with chickpeas.” Abgoosht is usually made with lamb, chickpeas, white beans, onion, potatoes, and tomatoes, turmeric, and black lime and is a good source of protein, which is more common and preferred during cold days of winter.
The ingredients are combined together and cooked until done, at which point the dish is strained. The solids are then mashed and served with the broth, but in a separate dish, along with flatbread. It is a form of Piti, which encompasses many similar dishes in the region.
You can eat Abgoosht in traditional restaurants in most of cities of Iran. For instance, if you want to eat Abgoosht in Tehran, it is better to try it in the restaurants of city center.
Zereshk Polo (Barberry Rice with Saffron Chicken)
One of the most delicious foods in Iran that is the common food in every type of gatherings and parties is Zereshk polo with chicken. This delicious food has a great taste and is very quick and easy to be prepared. In this food, sliced chicken, rice, saffron, barberry, almonds, and pistachios slices and spices are used. You can eat this Iranian food in traditional and Iranian Restaurants.
Kabab Koobideh (grilled minced meat Kabab)
It is one of the most delicious traditional Persian foods, served in the great Persian ceremonies. To cook this Kabab, the meat is cut on a metal or wooden skewer and placed on a direct fire until it is completely cooked. This food is made from mutton flavored with onions and spices and served with rice, bread, shallot yoghurt, dough, raw onions and basil. It is highly recommended to eat this delicious food at least one time during your trip to Iran.
Ash Reshteh (Persian Noodle broth)
In Iran, different types of Ash are cooked, among which Ash reshteh has a great reputation. In this great Persian food, various types of beans and herbs for broth are poured and is served with hot oil, mint, and whey. It can be a great source of protein for vegetarians. Iranians eat this food especially in cold days of winter. This is not a special broth for the special city and is served everywhere. If you would like to try other Persian broths, it is recommended to try ash-e sholehghalamkar, asgh-e dough (Azerbaijan), ash-e joe (barley broth).
Barge Moe dolmeh (stuffed grape leaves)
Many countries have their own special Dolmeh and Iran is one of them. The grape leaves dolmeh originally is a food from Tabriz, which bulgur, rice, split peas, animal oil, fried onions and special herbs are used in it. All of these materials are mixed together and eventually are placed inside the grape leaves. It is easy to prepare and usually can be served as an appetizer.
Baghali polo with Mahicheh (Fava bean and dill with rice and lamb shank)
The other delicious Persian food that is usually served with meat and has its fans is Baghali polo with the lamb shank. The main ingredients of this food, depending on the choice of individuals, can be meat, neck or rib meat. Along with the lamb shank, basically, the rice is decorated with saffron, which is a majestic spice. Baghali polo with lamb shank is served with meat water, pickles or salads. Also, it can be served with chicken instead of meat. Anyway, it is a very popular food in Iran which is highly recommended to try.
Ghormeh sabzi (Persian herbs stew)
Stews are a kind of food which has so many types in Iran. One of them is Ghormeh Sabzi. It is a very famous and popular food in Iran, which everyone knows about its recipe. In this food, beef, onion, red beans, dried lemon and herbs are used; herbs, including spinach, fenugreek, leek, parsley, and coriander, play a very important role in making this food delicious. The food is served with Iranian white rice with Tahdig (crunchy rice). This food is served also with onion, Shirazi salad or yoghurt.
Chicken Tah-Chin (Persian layered saffron rice with chicken)
This food is served in most of the Iranian parties and celebrations. The food is prepared of cooked chicken which is placed in rice layers. The chicken Tahchin, though glamorous, is very easy to make. Saffron has an important role in this food and gives it a unique flavor and aroma.
If you are a vegetarian, don’t worry at all. We have some other great suggestions for you too. Just click here