Best Persian Food of Iran + Photos

These days, enjoying local food while traveling has become an integral part of a complete tourist experience, and food lovers eat at least one or more meals at local eateries to fully understand the culinary culture of any major city they know. With its 31 provinces, Iran has dozens of unique and authentic local dishes. Join us to introduce you to some of the most famous and delicious traditional Persian Food, from Tabrizi meatballs to Dizi, Ashe Reshteh, Ghormeh Sabzi, and all kinds of kebabs, along with their recipes.

Persian Food History

The history of Persian Cuisine goes back thousands of years, and evidence shows that Iranians have been engaged in animal husbandry and agriculture since ancient times. This has caused the unique diversity and wideness of Iranian cuisine.

During the Achaemenid Empire, Iranian cuisine was influenced by different cultures. Iranians interacted with and were influenced by cultures such as Egypt, India, and China, and as a result, Iran produced more diverse and complex foods.

During the Sassanian period, Iranian cuisine reached its peak. Iranians became interested in using different spices and flavorings, which resulted in Iranian food with a unique taste.

During the Islamic period, Iranian cuisine was influenced by different Islamic cultures. Iranians interacted with and were influenced by cultures such as Arabic, Turkish, and Armenian, resulting in greater diversity in Iranian cuisine.

During the Safavid era, Iranian cuisine was introduced to the world. Iran became a great world power and attracted many travelers from different countries. This made Iranian food popular all over the world.

During the Qajar period, Iranian cuisine changed. Iranians became familiar with Western cultures and were influenced by them, resulting in new flavors and cooking methods being introduced to Iranian cuisine.

In the modern era, Iranian cuisine has maintained its position. Today, Iranian cuisine is known globally and is highly popular.

Variety of Iranian Cuisine

Iran, along with China and Rome, stands as one of the three pillars of global cuisine and has earned its reputation as one of the top destinations for culinary tourism and food exploration. From the north to the south and from the west to the east, Iranian cuisine is so diverse that compiling it requires an encyclopedia of several thousand pages.

During the Persian Empire, Iran had borders with countries like the former Soviet Union, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Arab countries, and Turkey. This, along with Iran’s position on the Silk Road trade route and its close ties with Europe, the Far East, and Africa, explains why the range of indigenous foods in this country is so wide.

Persian Food Names

The name of Persian food dishes shows the rich cultural legacy and varied influences that have shaped Iranian food over the centuries. Each Persian food dish has its own unique name that often refers to the ingredients or the way it is prepared.

For example, “Ghormeh Sabzi” translates to “fried vegetable,” highlighting the dish’s reliance on a combination of fried greens such as parsley, cilantro, and fenugreek. Similarly, “Fesenjan” is a stew made with pomegranate paste and ground walnuts, which combines sweet and spicy flavors in a pleasant harmony. This is why many find Persian food tasty.

In addition, the name of Iranian dishes is often a tribute to the traditions and authenticity of each region. Dishes such as Kashk-e Bademjan, creamy eggplant dip with whey, or Mirza Ghassemi, a smoked roasted eggplant dish, carry the names of their creators or place of origin, adding layers of history and identity to the culinary landscape.

The names of Iranian dishes, whether simple or complicated, invite guests to a sensual journey among the lively flavors and pleasures of Iranian cooking.

Persian Food Menu

The menu of Iranian cuisine usually includes a wide range of savory dishes and delicious desserts that belong to different parts of Iran. Tasty dishes often include aromatic stews such as Ghormeh Sabzi and Fesenjan, as well as tasty kebabs such as Koobideh and Joojeh.

Fragrant rice dishes such as Zereshk Polo and Baghali Polo add elegance to the meal, while appetizers such as Kashk-e Bademjan and Mirza Ghassemi provide a tasty start to any feast.

Iranian cuisine also has a variety of fresh salads, dips, and side dishes that are accompanied by warm flatbreads such as Barbari and Sangak, which are perfect for soaking up the delicious sauces and flavors.

When it comes to desserts, Iranian cuisine offers a delightful array of sweet treats to satisfy any taste. Traditional pastries such as Gaz and Sohan highlight the rich flavors of nuts, honey, and spices, while delicate pastries such as Baklava and Zoolbia Bamieh showcase the intricate art of Iranian baking.

In addition, Iranian desserts often have aromatic flavors such as rose water, saffron, and cardamom, creating a symphony of flavors. To complement these sweet treats, Iranian cuisine also offers refreshing drinks such as Doogh and Sharbat, which provide a cool and satisfying end to a delicious meal.

What Is Typical Persian Food?

Typical Persian cuisine is famous for its rich flavors, aromatic spices, and hearty ingredients. Rice is a staple food in Iranian cuisine, often served with a variety of stews, kebabs, and salads. Ghormeh Sabzi, a tasty vegetable stew with lamb or beef, and Fesenjan, a spicy stew with pomegranate and walnuts, are among the most popular Iranian dishes.

Kebabs such as Koobideh and Barg are also popular, which consist of meat skewered and grilled in spices. In addition, Persian food includes a variety of appetizers, dips, and side dishes such as Kashk-e Bademjan and Mast-o-Khiar (yogurt and cucumber), which add depth and complexity to the food.

Desserts in Iranian cuisine are often sweet and nutritious and contain ingredients such as nuts, honey, and rose water. Traditional pastries like Gaz and Sohan offer a taste of Iran’s pastry heritage, while delicate pastries like Baklava and Zoolbia Bamieh showcase the art of Iranian baking.

To accompany these sweet treats, Iranians enjoy refreshing drinks such as Doogh, a yogurt-based drink, and sharbat, a fruit syrup diluted with water. Typical Iranian dishes with diverse flavors and vibrant culinary traditions offer a delicious journey through Iran’s cultural heritage.

Do Persians Eat Halal?

Yes, Persians mostly eat halal food. Halal refers to food that is permissible for Muslims to eat according to Islamic law. In Iran, which is an Islamic Republic, the majority of people follow Islamic dietary laws, which include the consumption of halal meat.

Halal meat is prepared by observing specific guidelines, such as the method of slaughtering animals by Islamic rituals. Therefore, most of the meat and poultry products consumed by Iranians are halal and ensure compliance with religious requirements and dietary preferences.

In addition, many restaurants and food centers in Iran openly advertise their adherence to halal standards to meet the religious and cultural preferences of the people.

Why Is Persian Food Good?

Iranian food is very popular because of its exceptional taste, variety of flavors, and nutrients. One of the reasons why Iranian food is considered good is its emphasis on using fresh and high-quality ingredients.

From aromatic herbs and spices to succulent meats and grains, Iranian cuisine is carefully prepared to ensure optimal flavor and texture. In addition, Iranian cuisine covers a diverse array of herbs, spices, and seasonings, creating complex, layered flavors that tempt the taste buds.

In addition, Iranian food is known for its health benefits. Many traditional Iranian foods contain nutrients such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, making them a healthy and balanced choice. Using herbs and spices not only enhances flavor but also adds medicinal properties and helps with overall well-being.

In addition, Iranian cooking methods often include braising and slow-brewing, which helps preserve the natural flavor and nutrients of the ingredients. Overall, the combination of delicious flavors and healthy ingredients makes Iranian food a delicious and nutritious culinary experience.

Famous Persian Foods Around the World

Iranian food is considered one of the most delicious and charming foods in the world. It is no wonder these dishes are loved by most people, including foreigners and tourists. In every region of Iran, people cook their local and traditional foods based on their culture and customs.

But cooking Iranian food is not an easy task, and each one has its own way of preparation. In fact, some Persian food has attracted the attention of tourists so much that they try to recreate these dishes when they return to their country.

Iranian dishes are very delicious and tasty due to the cooking techniques and spices used and have gained many fans all over the world. Below, we introduce some of the most famous and well-known Iranian dishes around the world.

Fesenjan

Fesenjan stew is one of the most popular Iranian dishes in the world. Fesenjan is an authentic and lovely Iranian food that originates from the city of Gilan.

This food is one of the local dishes, and the people of this region pay special attention to its preparation and presentation. Therefore, in the cooking of Fesenjan, various combinations and unique ingredients are used, which distinguishes it from other Iranian dishes.

This dish has its own cooking method and requires sufficient skill to prepare it. Fesenjan is a famous Iranian dish whose main ingredients are walnuts, pomegranate paste, and chicken or meat. This dish is served with a combination of sweet and sour taste along with rice, which gives it a special charm.

Eggplant and Meat Stew

Eggplant and meat stew is an authentic Iranian dish that is very similar to Ghormeh Qeyme. In this stew, eggplants are cooked together with other ingredients such as meat or chicken with spices.

To increase the taste and texture of this dish, cooks often use “lappeh”, although it should be noted that “lappeh” is not included in the original recipe of this stew.

Eggplant rice or eggplant and meat stew is a delicious and unique Iranian dish that is usually eaten in the southern regions of the country. Eggplant rice, this tasty Persian food, with its pleasant taste, has attracted the attention of cooking enthusiasts.

It is better to serve this colorful and tasty dish with grilled eggplant to get a wonderful taste. Eggplant and meat stew can be eaten with fragrant Iranian rice, or with bread and fresh vegetables, both of these dishes have a delicious taste.

Beryan (Beryoon)

Isfahan’s Beryan is considered one of the most delicious and well-known Iranian dishes, which has many fans. This traditional food is so tasty and delicious that it is recommended to try it during your trip to Isfahan.

Beryan’s appearance is similar to a hamburger, but the taste is completely different, and is prepared from a combination of lamb neck, lamb liver, onions, spices, and peppers. It is better to eat this dish with fresh vegetables, onions, and yogurt to fully taste it.

Tahchin

Tahchin is one of the beloved and ceremonial Iranian dishes that are cooked with different recipes in different regions of the country. Semnan province has the most variety of Tahchin.

This delicious dish is made with rice, various types of meat (chicken, lamb, or beef), yogurt, eggs, and plenty of saffron, and due to its beautiful appearance, it is considered a formal dish for important occasions such as weddings.

This dish consists of two layers of thick saffron Tahdig (made of meat or chicken) and white rice pilaf that is poured over it.

Baghali Polo

Another famous and delicious dish of Iranian rice dish is Baghali Polo. This dish has taken the third place in the list of well-known Iranian dishes all over the world.

You can prepare Baghali Polo with chicken, lamb shank, or lamb neck, but Baghali Polo with lamb shank is more popular. Baghali Polo has a special place among Iranian dishes.

Baghali Polo, especially when made with lamb shank, is a special dish for weddings and celebrations. The incredible contrast between the green color of the fava beans and saffron rice shows its unique beauty and immediately catches the eye when served on the table.

Adding fava beans while cooking rice and garnishing with aromatic herbs after draining the rice creates a unique flavor that will make anyone fall in love with this dish.

Gheimeh Stew

Gheimeh stew is a delicious and lovely Iranian food that is cooked in different regions of the country with different recipes. Gheimeh Rizeh from Isfahan, Pichagh Gheimeh from Ardabil, Gheimeh Nokhod from Yazd, Gheimeh Nesar from Qazvin, Gheimeh Bademjan, Gheimeh Beh, Gheimeh Havij from Tabriz, Gheimeh Masouleh and Gheimeh Bushehri are varieties of this stew.

The classic type of Gheimeh stew, which is considered one of the authentic dishes of Tehran, is prepared with red meat (veal shank or lamb shoulder), sauteed onions (fried onions), split peas, and dried lime.

The Gheimeh is often served with plain rice or rice pilaf, along with potatoes and sometimes fried eggplant.

The exact history of Gheimeh stew is not known, but this dish was certainly cooked in Iran during the Safavid period. Gheimeh stew emerged about 80 to 90 years ago as a traditional food, especially as a food served on religious occasions, and it has become one of the main dishes, especially on the days of Tasua and Ashura in the month of Muharram.

Ghormeh Sabzi

Ghormeh Sabzi is another Iranian food that has a high rank among world-known foods. It is rare to find someone who does not enjoy Ghormeh Sabzi. Cooking Ghormeh Sabzi requires skill and experience. This delicious and tasty food has always been on Iranian tables.

Although it is less noticed in formal gatherings and parties, it is of special value and importance as one of the culinary masterpieces. The ingredients of this tempting green dish include lamb meat, beans, and aromatic herbs. This delicious stew, with its rich flavor, is usually served with rice in other countries.

Mirza Ghasemi

Another traditional Iranian food that comes from the northern region of the country is Mirza Ghasemi. This dish is prepared using grilled eggplant, tomato, and egg.

Moreover, it is cooked with a lot of garlic, which gives it a distinct flavor and aroma. This dish, originating from Gilan province, is usually served as a main dish and sometimes as a warm appetizer.

Kebabs

Kebabs are among the best and most delicious Iranian foods, which are known and popular all over the world. Different types of kebabs are cooked in Iran, such as Barg, Joojeh, Chenjeh, and Soltani, each of which offers a unique taste and pleasure. However, Koobideh kebab, or Chelo Kebab, is known as one of the most popular and famous types of kebab in the world. In addition to its delightful taste, Koobideh kebab is present in a formal and special way at ceremonial and festive tables.

This dish is served with bread, grilled tomatoes and peppers, saffron-infused rice, yogurt, and fresh vegetables, creating a truly delightful combination.

The use of fresh lamb meat, along with fat, spices, and onions, brings a special taste to this kebab. Koobideh kebab is ranked ninth in the list of famous Iranian dishes around the world.

Interestingly, this beloved Iranian food entered Iran during the time of Naser al-Din Shah and gradually became a staple of Iranian food with changes in its cooking method.

Dizi (Abgoosht)

One of the most authentic Iranian dishes, Dizi or Abgoosht, with its delicious taste you will never forget. This delicious Iranian food is very popular among foreign tourists and has a special place. Dizi is prepared from a combination of lamb, legumes, potatoes, and tomatoes and is best served with Sangak bread, fresh vegetables, onions, and local yogurt.

Serving Abgoosht follows a series of principles and rules that must be followed.

Pour the Dizi broth into a bowl and place the remaining ingredients, such as chickpeas, beans, potatoes, bones, onions, and tomatoes into the Dizi pot. Then, mash the ingredients completely with a meat masher until the meat is soft and the Dizi is ready. Then, dip the pieces of bread in the broth.

Now your food is ready! You can eat Abgoosht and mashed meat with various pickles, raw onions, fresh vegetables, and of course refreshing drinks like yogurt or soft drinks.

Ash Reshteh

Just as Ash Reshteh is a favorite dish among most Iranians, it is also recognized worldwide as one of the most beloved and delicious Iranian delicacies. This dish ranks among the most famous and tastiest Iranian foods.

Ash comes in various types, with the most famous being Ash Reshteh. It can be safely said that every Iranian has eaten Ash or Ash Reshteh at least once in their lifetime; however, this delicious dish, based on vegetables, comes in various forms and varieties that you may not have tried before.

Ash is a common and international food that is cooked all over the world in different ways and with different recipes. Since Ash has many varieties, different people enjoy its taste and freshness. Keep in mind that Ash, with its delicious taste and its main ingredients consisting of various vegetables, is considered a complete and satisfying meal.

Final Word

What was stated in this article is only a small part of the traditional dishes of Iranian cities. Almost every province of Iran offers its own unique and delicious dishes. Also, some traditional and authentic Iranian dishes are shared in all cities, including Abgoosht, Fesenjan, and Tahchin.

Sometimes the same foods are prepared with different ingredients and methods in different cities. Traditional foods are largely influenced by weather conditions and people’s preferences in different cities. Therefore, we have two recommendations for you: first, try to travel a lot, and second, make sure to try the food of different cities during your trip.

Every city and alley in Iran offers the aroma and taste of its food and amazes you. This was a complete list of the most delicious foods from different provinces of Iran, but the story does not end here. So be sure to travel to Iran and eat every single authentic Iranian food.

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