Shirini Napoleoni – Napoleon pastries

Shirini Napoleoni, or Napoleon pastries, are popular dessertys in Iran that are closely related to the French Mille-feuilles. The French name translates to “a thousand leaves”, referencing the layers of flaky and buttery puff pastry. Traditionally, a mille-feuille is made of three layers of puff pastry, alternating with two layers of crème pâtissière. The top…

Javahar Polo – Jeweled rice with saffron chicken

Javahar Polo (jeweled rice in Farsi), also known as Morasa Polo, is truly the ultimate rice dish that is often served at Persian New Year celebrations or at weddings. But you certainly don’t need to wait for spring equinox or a marriage proposal to treat yourself to this gem (all puns intended!) of a dish….

Kufteh – Meatballs with herbs and pistachios and pomegranate glaze

This is Kufteh, Persian pomegranate and pistachio meatballs, a standout in Iran’s long tradition of meatball dishes. What makes it special is the burst of flavors from fresh herbs, the juicy pop of pomegranate arils, and the satisfying crunch of Iran’s iconic emerald-green pistachios. I see this dish as one of those wonderfully satisfying weeknight…