Iranian cuisine

Iranian cuisine, also known as Persian cuisine, is the traditional and modern style of cooking in Iran. It includes a wide variety of dishes, including stews, rice dishes, kebabs, and desserts.

History

The history of Iranian cuisine dates back to the Persian Empire, where the foundation for many traditional dishes was laid. The cuisine has been influenced by Iran's neighboring and conquered regions at various stages throughout its history.

Ingredients

Common ingredients in Iranian cuisine include rice, meat, vegetables, and spices such as saffron, turmeric, and cinnamon. Fresh and dried fruits are often used in Persian recipes, as well as nuts like pistachios, almonds, and walnuts.

Dishes

Rice Dishes

Rice is a staple in Iranian cuisine. One of the most famous dishes is Chelow kabab, which is steamed, saffroned Iranian rice served with kabab. Another popular dish is Tahdig, which is the crispy bottom layer of the cooked rice, often considered the best part of the dish.

Stews

Stews, or Khoresht, are also a major part of Iranian cuisine. They are typically served with rice. Some popular stews include Ghormeh Sabzi, a herb stew with meat and beans, and Fesenjan, a pomegranate and walnut stew.

Desserts

Iranian desserts often include ingredients like rose water, honey, nuts, and saffron. Baklava, a sweet pastry made of layers of filo filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey, is a popular dessert.

Drinks

Tea is the most popular drink in Iran, often served with every meal. Other traditional drinks include Doogh, a yogurt-based drink, and Sharbat, a sweet cordial made from fruit or flower petals.

See also

• Cuisine of the Middle East
• List of Iranian dishes
• Culture of Iran