9 Exotic Foods to Try in Iran!

According to SAEDNEWS, When you travel, one of the most exciting parts is trying new foods. In Iran, the diverse culture and geography come together to create a wide variety of delicious cuisines. While many Iranian dishes might seem familiar to travelers, there are also some truly exotic foods that can surprise and delight your taste buds. Here are nine amazing dishes from Iran that you should definitely try!

1. Kalle Pache

Kalle Pache is a unique dish that translates to "head and leg." This hearty meal is made with various parts of a sheep, including the head, four legs, meat, tongue, and brain. It's slowly cooked for about 10 to 12 hours, making the meat incredibly tender. This dish is rich in cholesterol, so many Iranians enjoy it with a splash of lemon or sour orange juice to balance the flavors. Kalle Pache is typically eaten for breakfast, giving you the energy to start your day.

2. Del, Jigar, and Gholve

If you're looking for tasty street food, try Del, Jigar, and Gholve! This dish consists of grilled pieces of sheep's heart, liver, and kidney. It’s not only nutritious but also packed with flavor. You can find it at small local restaurants in Tehran and in traditional bazaars. Eating this dish while standing on the bustling streets adds to the fun of the experience!

3. Khoresht-e Mast

Khoresht-e Mast is a delightful yogurt stew that is especially popular during weddings and formal ceremonies in Isfahan. Unlike typical stews that are savory, this one is sweet and served cold. It's made with yogurt, sugar, saffron, and rose water, and it also includes tender pieces of lamb. Before serving, it is beautifully topped with slivers of almonds, pistachios, and bright red barberries. This dish offers a unique combination of flavors that you won’t want to miss.

4. Beryani

Beryani is a traditional dish from Isfahan that differs from the Indian Biryani. It’s made from minced lamb mixed with onions, turmeric, cinnamon, and often garnished with pistachios and almonds. The mixture is cooked until tender and is served on a piece of bread. This dish is rich, fatty, and incredibly tasty—a great option for those who need something filling after a day of exploring.

5. Doogh o Gooshfil

Doogh o Gooshfil is an interesting pairing of a refreshing drink and a sweet snack. Doogh is a sour and salty yogurt drink, while Gooshfil is a crispy and sweet pastry that resembles an elephant's ear in shape. At first, the idea of mixing salty and sweet might seem strange, but many people find that the combination is delicious and addictive.

6. Ashpal-e Mahi

In the northern city of Rasht, you can try Ashpal-e Mahi, which consists of female fish eggs, also known as roe. This dish is an excellent seafood delicacy and is typically served as a side dish. The salty flavor adds a unique twist to any meal, and for seafood lovers, it is a must-try!

7. Ab Doogh Khiar

Looking for something cool and refreshing? Try Ab Doogh Khiar, a cold yogurt soup that is perfect for hot summer days in Iran. Made with yogurt, chopped cucumbers, fresh herbs, raisins, and walnuts, this light dish is often served with thin, crunchy Lavash bread. Many people even add ice to their bowl for an extra chill, making it a favorite for vegetarians and anyone wanting a healthy meal.

8. Regag Bread

Regag bread is a traditional, thin, crepe-like bread enjoyed in southern Iran, particularly around Bandar Abbas and Qeshm Island. It's made by local women and cooked in special handmade ovens. Regag is often served with a unique red sauce called Ow Mahi, made from fermented fish. Although it may sound unusual, many locals love this distinct combination.

9. Tahdig

No Iranian meal is complete without Tahdig, which means "bottom of the pot." This dish is the delicious, crispy layer of rice that forms at the bottom when rice is cooked. Sometimes, thin slices of potatoes or bread are placed at the bottom before adding the rice, resulting in an even richer flavor. Tahdig is a beloved favorite at dining tables in Iran and is usually gone in moments!

Conclusion

Iran is a country rich in culinary traditions, and each region has its unique dishes that reflect its culture and history. From hearty stews to refreshing soups, the exotic foods of Iran offer a culinary adventure that you will never forget. When you visit Iran, make sure to try these nine exciting and unusual dishes! For food lovers, there are also culinary tours available where you can learn about the food culture, the origins of these dishes, and even take part in cooking classes. This way, you can create memories and flavors that last a lifetime!