What are some Persian appetizers?

Persian appetizers are a flavorful prelude to any meal. Some classics include: Mast-o-Khiar – a cool yogurt and cucumber dip that’s incredibly refreshing. Zeytoon Parvardeh – marinated olives with pomegranate molasses, garlic, and walnuts. Borani Bademjan – a smoky eggplant and yogurt dip. Shirazi Salad – a crisp, citrusy combo of tomato, cucumber, and onion. Sabzi Khordan – a vibrant platter of fresh herbs with feta and radishes. They’re often served with warm flatbreads and perfect for grazing before the main event.

What to serve with Persian chicken?

Persian chicken dishes like Zereshk Polo Morgh (barberry rice with saffron chicken) or Joojeh Kabab pair beautifully with: Shirazi Salad for a fresh, tangy contrast. Mast-o-Khiar to cool things down. Sabzi Khordan to add crunch and herbal notes. Persian-style pickles (Torshi) for a vinegary punch. A side of Adas Polo-style lentils for something hearty. Trust me, your table will thank you!

What are some classic Persian dishes?

You’re in for a treat—classic Persian dishes are soulful and deeply aromatic. A few all-stars include: Ghormeh Sabzi – herb stew with beans and lamb. Fesenjan – walnut and pomegranate stew. Tahchin – savory rice cake with saffron and chicken or lamb. Kebab Koobideh – ground meat kebabs. Baghali Polo – dill and fava bean rice. They often come with yogurt dips, salads, or pickles as sidekicks.

What to serve with Persian stew?

Persian stews ( Khoresht ) are comforting and rich, so light and bright sides create balance: Steamed saffron rice – the must-have base. Shirazi Salad – brightens every bite. Mast-o-Khiar – helps mellow spiced flavors. Sabzi Khordan – adds crunch and freshness. Torshi – for tangy zing. These sides turn a good stew into a full-on feast.

What are the six types of appetizers?

Appetizers come in different flavors and formats! While Persian cuisine may not categorize them this way officially, here’s a general culinary breakdown: Cocktail appetizers – bite-sized nibbles served with drinks. Canapés – small, decorative bites on bread or crackers. Dips and spreads – like Mast-o-Khiar or hummus. Cold platters – such as cheese boards or Sabzi Khordan. Hot appetizers – like potato cakes or small meat pastries. Salads and pickles – crisp Shirazi Salad or Torshi. Persian starters often blend these categories with flair and freshness.

What is a classic Persian dish?

If you had to choose just one, Ghormeh Sabzi would likely be crowned the national favorite. It’s a fragrant herb stew made with parsley, cilantro, fenugreek, red kidney beans, and tender lamb or beef, all slow-cooked to perfection. Serve it with fluffy saffron rice and you’ve got a heartwarming, belly-hugging Persian classic.

10 Easy Persian Side Dishes That Transform Any Meal

Name: 10 Persian Side Dishes
Prep time: PT-488336H33M16S
Cook time: PT-488336H33M16S
Total time: PT-488336H33M16S
Cuisine: Persian
Ingredients: Check each recipe separately

Description

A collection of ten classic Persian side dishes that bring flavor, color, and texture to any meal.

Ingredients

Check each recipe separately

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Instructions

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Notes

Prep-ahead dips, fresh salads, savory fritters, and pickles—for effortless entertaining or weeknight dinners.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT40M
Category: Side Dish
Method: No-cook, stovetop, roasting, frying, pickling
Cuisine: Persian