Delal, also known as green salt, is a specialty condiment from the Caspian Sea region of Iran, specifically from the Gilan and Mazandaran provinces. Traditionally, locally foraged herbs are harvested, roughly chopped, and placed in a traditional stone bowl along with salt, and pulverized by a repetitive rolling and grinding action using a smooth rock….
Category: Vegan
Salad Shirazi – Cucumber and tomato salad with dried mint dressing
There is something extraordinarily special about this salad, which has great significance in Persian cuisine. The bright and refreshing flavors of tomato and cucumber are enhanced by a dressing of dried mint and unripe sour grape juice (Ab Ghooreh in Farsi). Its simplicity makes it relatively easy as a perfect companion to just about any…
Khoresh Gojeh Bademjan – Eggplant and tomato stew
Eggplants, otherwise known fondly as the potatoes of Iran, have a special place in Persian cuisine. You will find them fried, baked, charred over open fire, or pickled. Their texture ranges from chewy, smooth, chunky, and soft to creamy. They are cooked into Kuku or preserved as a Torshi (pickled) or integrated as a supporting…
Saffron and pear cake with Seville orange and pistachio frosting
There is so much to this cake, but not in the way you might think. It’s a simple cake, even if it does have some unique flavors. This cake tells the story of my life. Every ingredient, every choice, every combination, and every approach in the cooking method results from the experiences I have had…
Zeitoon Parvardeh – Olive Tapenade with pomegranate
Zeitoon parvardeh is naturally packed with a ton of flavors, bringing together sweet, sour, salt, fat, and umami all into one dish! This tapenade, a traditional marinated olive spread finds its roots in the Caspian Sea region of Iran where you will frequently see it served at homes and restaurants. Given its origin, you will…