Bamieh – bite-sized “donuts” soaked in saffron-rosewater syrup

Bamieh is a mouth-watering Persian dessert famous for its distinctive textures and flavors. Deep-fried to perfection, these doughnut-like treats have a crispy exterior but are soft and juicy inside. They are soaked in syrup infused with rosewater, saffron, and lemon juice, creating a perfect balance of sweetness, tanginess, and floral notes. I’m showcasing Bamieh here…

Naan Nokhodchi – Cardamom chickpea cookies

Naan Nokhodchi, also known as Shirini Nokhodchi, are among the many delicious Persian cookies that are associated with celebration and hospitality. Flavored with cardamom and rose water, they are perfect with a cup of black tea or coffee, and are a great treat at any time of day. These small, delicate, and melt-in-your-mouth cookies are…

Faloodeh – Lime and rosewater granita with rice noodles

There is no shortage of western-style desserts in Iran, ranging from classic French pastries to cookies, cakes, pies, and ice creams. At the same time, there is an assortment of local and regional desserts that have long been part of Persian cuisine. Many of them have specific associations with special holidays, celebrations, or seasons. Faloodeh…

Sholeh Zard – Saffron and rosewater rice pudding

Sholeh Zard is a beloved and popular rice pudding that has all the quintessential flavors of a Persian dessert. Fragrant Persian rice is slowly simmered in a large body of water until it begins to soften. One by one, saffron, rosewater, and sugar find their way into the pot and diligently do their part to…

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…