By Persian cuisine is a unique blend of aromas, flavors, and spices that come together to create amazing dishes. The variety and range of Persian food found in restaurants, homes, and even on the street are vast. There are so many delicious dishes to choose from that it can be difficult to decide what to try! Fortunately, this article will help you out by highlighting some of the most popular Persian foods. From classic kabobs to sweet desserts, these dishes are sure to tantalize your taste buds and have you coming back for more!
1. Persian Steamed Rice
Persian steamed rice is one of the most popular Persian foods. It is a simple dish made with just rice, water and salt. However, the key to making perfect steamed rice is in the technique.
The first step is to rinse the rice several times in order to remove any excess starch. Then, the rice is soaked in water for 30 minutes. This allows the grains to absorb moisture and makes them less likely to stick together when cooking.
After soaking, the rice is drained and then placed in a pot with boiling water. The ratio of water to rice should be 2:1 – that is, two cups of water for every one cup of rice. Once the water comes to a boil, the heat is reduced and the pot is covered so that the steam can cook the rice evenly.
It takes about 18 minutes for the rice to be fully cooked through. Once done, it is fluffed with a fork and then served immediately.
2. TahDig
If you’re a fan of rice, you’ll love TahDig. This Persian dish is made by cooking rice in a pot with some oil or butter, which creates a crispy golden crust on the bottom of the pot. The rice is then served with the crust, along with meat or vegetables.
TahDig is usually made with basmati rice, but any type of long grain rice will work. To get the perfect TahDig, it’s important to rinse the rice several times before cooking to remove excess starch. Then, the rice should be cooked in boiling water for about 10 minutes before being drained and rinsed again.
After the rice has been cooked and drained, it’s time to add it to the pot with some oil or butter. Be sure to use a non-stick pot so that the TahDig doesn’t stick to the bottom. Once the rice is in the pot, add enough boiling water to just cover the rice. Then, put a lid on the pot and cook over low heat for about 30 minutes.
Once the TahDig is done cooking, let it sit for 5 minutes before inverting it onto a plate so that the crispy crust is on top. Serve immediately with meat or vegetables. Enjoy!
3. Khoresht-e Ghormeh Sabzi
Ghormeh sabzi is a Persian herb stew that typically includes spinach, parsley, cilantro, leeks, and chives. The herbs are cooked with dried limes, kidney beans, and beef or lamb. Ghormeh sabzi is often served with rice.
4. Chelo Kabab Koobideh
There are few foods more popular in Iran than chelo kabab, and kabab koobideh is one of the most popular types of chelo kabab. Kabab koobideh is made from ground meat (usually lamb or beef) that is mixed with spices and formed into small patties. The patties are then grilled on a skewer over an open flame.
Chelo kabab is traditionally served with steamed basmati rice, grilled tomatoes, and a dollop of yogurt. The flavors of the meat, rice, and vegetables complement each other perfectly, and the dish is hearty enough to satisfy even the most ravenous appetite. Whether you’re eating it at a restaurant or at home, kabab koobideh is sure to be one of your favorite Persian dishes.
5. Khoresht-e Gheimeh
Khoresht-e Gheimeh is a stew made with meat (usually lamb or beef), yellow split peas, and vegetables. It is often served with rice, and sometimes also with a type of flatbread called nan-e barbari.
Khoresht-e Gheimeh is a very popular dish in Iran, and is often made for special occasions such as weddings and family gatherings. The dish is traditionally slow-cooked in a clay pot, which helps to give it its distinct flavor.
6. Baghali Polo ba Mahiche
In Persian cuisine, one of the most popular dishes is Baghali Polo ba Mahiche, a rice dish with broad beans and lamb. The dish is traditionally cooked in a pot over an open fire, and the ingredients are simmered until they are tender and full of flavor.
Baghali Polo ba Mahiche is often served with naan bread or other types of flatbread, and it can be accompanied by a variety of vegetables or salads. This dish is hearty and filling, and it is sure to please even the most discerning palate. If you are looking for a delicious way to experience the flavors of Persian cuisine, Baghali Polo ba Mahiche is a great option.
7. Zereshk Polo
Zereshk polo is a popular Persian rice dish that is typically made with basmati rice, chicken, and barberries. The dish is often garnished with chopped nuts and served with a side of yogurt or bread.
8. Khoresht-e Fesenjan
Khoresht-e fesenjan is a popular Persian dish made with chicken or duck, walnuts, and pomegranate syrup. It is often served with rice, and sometimes includes other ingredients such as onion, garlic, cinnamon, and cardamom.
The dish is believed to have originated in the city of Shiraz, Iran. It is named after Fesenjan, a Persian word for pomegranate syrup. The dish is usually made with chicken or duck, but can also be made with lamb or beef.
The key ingredient in khoresht-e fesenjan is pomegranate syrup, which gives the dish its characteristic sweet-tart flavor. Other ingredients include walnuts, onion, garlic, cinnamon, and cardamom. The dish is often served with rice.
Khoresht-e fesenjan can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. leftovers will keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 6 months in the freezer.
9. Dizi or Ab Goosht
Dizi or Ab Goosht is a traditional Persian dish consisting of lamb or mutton stew cooked with chickpeas, potatoes, tomatoes, and onions. It is often served with rice and a variety of other side dishes. Dizi is said to be one of the most popular Persian dishes, and it is definitely one of my favorites!
10. Ashe Reshteh
Ashe Reshteh is a popular Persian noodle soup that is packed with flavor. The soup is made with a variety of beans, vegetables, and noodles, and it is often topped with yogurt or sour cream. Ashe Reshteh is typically served as a main course, but it can also be enjoyed as a side dish.
11. Sholeh Zard
Sholeh Zard is a traditional Persian pudding made with rice, sugar, and saffron. It is often served during special occasions such as weddings and holidays.
This pudding has a very sweet and rich flavor, thanks to the addition of sugar and saffron. The rice gives it a lovely texture that is both creamy and slightly chewy. It is often garnished with pistachios or almonds before being served.
12. Mosama Khoresht
Mosama khoresht is a popular Persian soup made with beef, tomatoes, and beans. It is often served with rice or bread.
Final Words
There are many popular Persian foods, but these are some of the most loved. From hearty stews to fragrant rice dishes, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a luxurious meal, these Persian foods will leave you satisfied.
