Persian Rice Spice translates to, ‘advieh berenj.’ This advieh is a blend of five warm spices: cardamom, cinnamon, cumin, nutmeg, and dried rose petals. This spice blend adds a unique depth of flavor to the steamed white rice to create the Aromatic Rice that I serve with my Khoresh gheymeh, Loobia Polo ba havij, Kalam Polo, Adas…
This is Pistachio and Apricot jam cookie, or as we call in Iran, “Shirini Morabaii,” which translates to jam cookies! These are butter cookies that are lightly scented with rosewater and vanilla; filled with sweet tart apricot jam and sprinkled with chopped pistachios. This shirini is as delicate as it looks; you will want to…
The spicy pumpkin seeds are delicious and crunchy and one of the best snacks for these cold fall nights, over warm conversations; ask any Iranian! Yes, roasted seeds and nuts are a favorite among Iranians, and there is an enormous selection of both in Iran. Among some of the most popular ‘ajil’ (mixed nuts and seeds)…
Turmeric milk, also known as the “golden milk,” is like a warming ray of sunshine that is soothing and relaxing anytime of the day or night; the perfect ‘me time’ drink! I make mine with 1% milk, but also love it with coconut or almond milk. Ground turmeric, chopped fresh ginger root, cinnamon bark, and…
Olive Oil Dip with Fresh Herbs is easy to make and it’s one of the best starters for many meals, but it certainly is a must before indulging in an Italian meal! Whenever we go to our favorite Italian restaurant, I can’t wait to dip chunks of their warm crusty Italian bread in a bowl…
Guacamole is a favorite around our house. I never need a special occasion to whip up a batch just about anytime of year, so basically finding good looking avocados is reason enough; but tomorrow is Cinco de Mayo so I feel this is the perfect time to share a new, and slightly different Guacamole recipe with…
Red Cabbage Jicama Salad, topped with oven blistered tomatoes is quick and simple to prepare. It is a lovely salad by itself with a crusty bread, but it also makes a delicious and healthy side dish for barbecued or broiled meat recipes. The peppery flavor of red cabbage pairs nicely with the crunchy sweetness of…
This post is a tutorial for preparing several variations of steamed Persian rice, as well as the recipes and techniques for different types of crispy crust at the bottom of the rice, or “Tahdig,” that is the best part of any pot of rice! Please scroll down for Damkesh order information. Rice is “Polo” in…
Mobraba ye Beh is Persian quince preserves. Quince is a fragrant fruit from the apple and pear family with a firm, pale yellow flesh. The beautiful reddish color that you see in the picture is the result of cooking the quince in sugar and water and then steeping it for 2-3 hours. Quince is “beh”…
Vegetarian Khoresh Bademjan (eggplant stew) is made with baked eggplants and yellow split peas. What makes this khoresh incredibly delicious is the tangy pomegranate concentrate and a citrus blend made with fresh squeezed juices of oranges and lemons. The traditional khoresh bademjan is an eggplant and meat lovers’ stew with chunks of lamb or beef…
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Fall is the pomegranate season, and I feel it is the perfect time to share my Fesenjan, or Fesenjoon recipe (chicken stew with walnut and pomegranate sauce). Beautiful red ripe pomegranates are available in most supermarkets. This jeweled fruit is the wonder of nature and makes you think about the intricate design that nestles precious gems that…
Kabob Koobideh (کباب کوبیده) is made with ground lamb or beef or a combination of the two. This is one of the most popular kabobs you can find on the streets of Iran. This Kabob is usually grilled over hot coals and is served in fancy restaurants and clubs, as well as in the little shacks…
Kashke Bademjan is one of the most popular Persian appetizers. Bademjan is eggplant in Farsi, and kashk is a yogurt product that traditionally is made through a long process, from very firm strained yogurt. The final product is either formed into balls, or pressed through a large holed sieve into strips, and dried. When dried…