Persian dishes are steeped in history, with recipes still eaten from ancient Persia (as Iran was called until the 1930s). Iranian food – or Persian food – is similar to other Middle Eastern cuisines, but with influences from Asia, such as chai tea stalls and saffron rice. Wheat is a staple here, with lamb, poultry and yoghurt also featuring a lot – sometimes with lemon, pomegranates or sour oranges for extra flavour!
We’re sharing some of the best classic Persian recipes. These recipes aren’t just any recipes either, as they have been created by the world’s top food bloggers. The best of the best. Make sure check out the other great dishes on their sites too.
The Best Persian Dishes
1. Persian Style Eggplant And Lentils
Halim Bademjan (or Persian Eggplant and Lentil Dish) is a popular Persian dish made with eggplant, shredded meat (beef or lamb), lentil and whey, and garnished with fried mint, garlic and onion.
Recipe created by Shabnam.
2. Zereshk Polo Ba Murg
Saffron Chicken with Barberry Rice is like a celebration on a plate. I am always intrigued by the combination of colour and flavour every Persian dish has. Persians cook their food with so much love that it is hard to resist it.
Recipe created by Shahnaz.
3. Baghali Polo
Baghali Polo ba Mahiche (or Persian dill and fava bean rice) is one of the most amazing Persian foods and is usually served at parties such or wedding ceremonies. A delicious rice dish that you can serve with chicken, lamb shanks, lamb neck or minced meat.
Recipe created by Samira.
4. Mini Persian Love Cakes
Perfect for tea, these mini Persian Love Cakes are beautiful, delicate, floral in flavor and in shape, but any old muffin pan will do.
Recipe created by Quelcy.
5. Persian Cutlet
Kotlet is a delicious Iranian version of ground meat patty. This is a kind of dish that can be served warm or cold, plain or with bread, at home or at a picnic.
Recipe created by The Persian Pot.
6. Persian Barley And Vegetable Soup
Here is a soup recipe you might not have considered: Persian Barley and Vegetable Soup with Dried Cranberries. It is delicious and stunningly beautiful. Barley is good for you, too.
Recipe created by Blue Cayenne.
7. Gondi – Persian Chickpea Dumplings
A Persian-Jewish Shabbat hors d’oeuvres that are also perfect for a hearty meal. With dumplings made from ground chicken and chickpea flour, this recipe is super tasty and filling.
Recipe created by Candice.