Iranian cuisine with iran visa is a beautiful blend of fragrant herbs, rich spices, slow-cooked stews, and delicate rice dishes. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner curious about Persian flavors, learning to make some of Iran’s most beloved dishes is a delicious way to explore the country’s culture.
In this post, we’ll share some of the best Persian food recipes that you can try at home — from classic kebabs to comforting stews and irresistible rice dishes.
1. Chelo Kebab (چلوکباب) – Saffron Rice with Grilled Kebab
What You Need:
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Ground beef or lamb
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Onion (grated and drained)
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Salt, pepper, turmeric
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Saffron for the rice
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Basmati rice
Quick Instructions:
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Mix the meat with grated onion and spices.
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Shape into long kebabs and grill or broil.
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Cook the rice, steam with saffron.
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Serve with grilled tomatoes and raw onion.
???? Pro Tip: Use metal skewers and flatten the kebabs for a more authentic feel.
2. Ghormeh Sabzi (قرمه سبزی) – Herb and Lamb Stew
What You Need:
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Parsley, cilantro, fenugreek (fresh or dried)
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Red kidney beans
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Dried limes
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Lamb cubes
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Onion, turmeric
Quick Instructions:
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Sauté chopped herbs until fragrant.
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Brown the lamb with onions and turmeric.
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Combine meat, herbs, beans, and dried lime.
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Simmer slowly for at least 2–3 hours.
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Serve with Persian steamed rice.
???? Flavor Tip: The longer it simmers, the better it tastes!
3. Zereshk Polo ba Morgh (زرشک پلو با مرغ) – Barberry Rice with Chicken
What You Need:
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Chicken thighs
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Onion, turmeric, saffron
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Barberries (zereshk)
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Basmati rice
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Butter or oil
Quick Instructions:
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Cook chicken with onion and spices.
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Sauté barberries with sugar and butter.
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Layer saffron rice with barberries.
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Serve with tender chicken and sauce.
???? Barberry Tip: Soak them briefly before sautéing to reduce bitterness.
4. Fesenjan (فسنجان) – Walnut & Pomegranate Stew
What You Need:
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Ground walnuts
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Pomegranate molasses
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Chicken or duck
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Onion, salt, pepper
Quick Instructions:
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Toast and grind walnuts until oily.
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Simmer with water and molasses until thick.
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Add browned chicken and cook slowly.
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Adjust with sugar or more molasses for balance.
❤️ Taste Note: Should be thick, slightly sweet, and tangy.
5. Tahdig (تهدیگ) – Crispy Persian Rice Crust
What You Need:
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Cooked Persian rice
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Oil, saffron
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Optional: thin lavash bread or potato slices
Quick Instructions:
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Add oil and saffron to a non-stick pot.
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Layer bread or potato slices at the bottom.
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Add rice and steam on low heat for 45 minutes.
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Flip to reveal the golden crust.
✨ Everyone’s favorite part of the meal!
6. Khoresht Bademjan (خورشت بادمجان) – Eggplant Stew
What You Need:
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Eggplants (fried)
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Tomato paste
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Beef or lamb
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Onion, turmeric, dried lime
Quick Instructions:
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Brown meat with onions and spices.
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Add tomato paste, water, and lime.
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Add fried eggplants and simmer.
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Serve with rice.
???? Eggplant Tip: Salt and drain eggplants before frying to remove bitterness.
7. Ash Reshteh (آش رشته) – Persian Noodle Soup
What You Need:
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Chickpeas, lentils, beans
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Herbs (parsley, spinach, leeks)
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Reshteh noodles
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Fried onions and dried mint
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Kashk (fermented whey)
Quick Instructions:
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Cook legumes first, then add herbs.
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Add noodles and simmer.
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Top with fried onions, mint, and kashk.
???? Popular during Nowruz (Persian New Year).
8. Kuku Sabzi (کوکو سبزی) – Herb Frittata
What You Need:
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Parsley, cilantro, dill (fresh, finely chopped)
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Eggs
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Walnuts, barberries (optional)
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Baking powder, salt, pepper
Quick Instructions:
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Mix herbs and eggs.
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Add walnuts/barberries if using.
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Pan-fry until both sides are golden.
???? A great vegetarian dish full of flavor.
9. Shirin Polo (شیرین پلو) – Sweet Persian Rice
What You Need:
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Basmati rice
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Orange peel (candied)
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Carrots, pistachios, almonds
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Chicken (optional)
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Saffron, sugar
Quick Instructions:
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Sauté candied ingredients with sugar.
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Mix into saffron rice.
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Serve with chicken or as a side.
???? A celebration dish perfect for weddings and holidays.
10. Mast-o-Khiar (ماست و خیار) – Yogurt Cucumber Dip
What You Need:
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Plain yogurt
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Cucumber (grated or chopped)
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Dried mint, salt
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Raisins, walnuts (optional)
Quick Instructions:
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Mix all ingredients well.
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Chill and serve cold as a side.
???? Refreshing, healthy, and easy to make.
Final Words:
Persian food is a feast for the senses. Each dish carries layers of flavor, history, and love. With just a few fresh herbs, some aromatic spices, and a little patience, you can bring the rich taste of Iran right into your kitchen.
Whether you're preparing a family dinner or a cultural night with friends, these Persian recipes are guaranteed to impress.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the secret to good Persian rice?
Rinsing and soaking the rice, parboiling, and steaming slowly with saffron is key.
2. Can I make Persian food vegetarian?
Yes! Many Persian dishes like Ash Reshteh, Kuku Sabzi, and Kashk Bademjan are naturally vegetarian.
3. Where can I find Persian ingredients?
Look in Middle Eastern or international grocery stores for ingredients like barberries, saffron, or dried lime.
4. How do Iranians serve food?
Traditionally, all dishes are placed in the center of the table and shared family-style.
5. What drink pairs well with Persian food?
Doogh (a salty yogurt drink with mint) is the most common traditional drink.