A Delicious Journey Through Iran: Discover the Flavors of Gilan

Gilan, perched in the far north of Iran along the Caspian Sea, is a lush, humid region brimming with greenery, friendly locals, and a rich culinary culture. From its sea-inspired traditions and farms to fishing shores and sprawling rice fields, this province is a feast for the senses.

An Amazing Trip to Iran: Discover Gilan’s Food

Nearly eight years ago, Rasht, Gilan’s capital, was recognized by UNESCO as a Creative City of Gastronomy. This honor reflects the city’s abundant food culture and the incredible variety of local dishes it has nurtured over centuries. Rasht draws on its rich history and traditions to preserve and share its culinary heritage with the world.

For Gilanis, food is not just nourishment—it’s a way of life. The province’s diverse cuisine reflects its fertile climate, abundant flora and fauna, and proximity to the Caspian Sea. Fresh vegetables, poultry, fish, and local herbs combine to create a unique and vibrant food culture.

Signature Dishes of Gilan

Torshi Shami (Shami Torsh)
A beloved Gilan classic, Torshi Shami blends minced beef or lamb with onions, tomatoes, pomegranate paste, coriander, and parsley. Cooked with a tomato-based sauce, it’s tender and flavorful, perfect with bread, rice, or fresh herbs.

Mahi Doodi (Smoked Fish)
Northern Iranians have long mastered food preservation techniques, from freezing to smoking. Smoked fish in Gilan is carefully salted, hung to dry, and smoked to a golden hue. Traditionally, it’s served by steaming a small portion over rice, letting the smoky aroma infuse the grains for a truly authentic taste.

Baghali Ghatogh
This iconic Gilaki dish features Rasht beans, garlic, dried dill, butter, turmeric, and eggs, served over rice. Simple yet deeply satisfying, Baghali Ghatogh is a true representation of Gilan’s home-cooked flavors.

Torsh-e Tareh
Garlic is central to Gilan’s cuisine, and Torsh-e Tareh showcases it beautifully. Roasted garlic combines with northern herbs, turmeric, water, eggs, and rice to create a dish that surprises with its harmony of flavors and aromas.

Anarbij
A rich, herb-infused walnut sauce envelopes tender meatballs in Anarbij, which is then enhanced with pomegranate molasses—a dish that embodies the heart of Gilan’s flavor profile.

Mirza Ghasemi
Perhaps Gilan’s most famous dish, Mirza Ghasemi features char-grilled eggplants, tomatoes, roasted garlic, and eggs. Traditionally served with rice, it’s now enjoyed across Iran with both bread and rice.

Kabab Torsh
Hailing from the Caspian Sea region, Kabab Torsh uses walnuts, garlic, onions, pomegranate paste, herbs, and fresh meat. This sour, flavorful kebab is a testament to how Gilanis elevate local ingredients into culinary art.

Morgh-e Torsh (Sour Chicken)
A tangy stew of chicken, onions, garlic, herbs, orange juice, and eggs, Morgh-e Torsh is a quintessential Gilani dish. Its balance of sour, aromatic, and savory notes makes it unforgettable.

Sweet Delights of Gilan

Kaka (Pumpkin Pancakes)
These fluffy pumpkin pancakes get a Persian twist with cardamom and rosewater. Known locally as Kaka, they’re often topped with walnuts and pistachios for an autumn-inspired treat.

Reshteh Khoshkar
A traditional cookie, Reshteh Khoshkar is especially popular during Ramadan. Made with rice, sugar, walnuts, and fragrant spices like cardamom and cinnamon, it’s fried lightly and soaked in a sweet syrup before serving.

Eskamoo
Gilan’s take on ice cream, Eskamoo is made from summer or tart fruits like cherries, plums, or cornelian cherries—a refreshing treat with a local twist.

Fuman Cookie
A layered cookie from Fuman, with a spiced walnut filling and a stamped top, showcasing Gilan’s attention to both flavor and presentation.

Gilan’s Famous Sides

Zeytoon Parvardeh
Marinated olives with walnuts, garlic, pomegranate molasses, and herbs, Zeytoon Parvardeh is a popular accompaniment that adds crunch and tang to any meal.

Sir Torshi (Pickled Garlic)
Often called the indispensable side dish of Gilan, Sir Torshi enhances the flavor of main courses with its bold, garlicky tang.

Kal Kebab
A simple yet delicious side dish, Kal Kebab pairs garlic and eggplant for a unique flavor profile, often served alongside meals or as a standalone treat.

Gilan is more than a destination—it’s a culinary journey. From smoky fish and aromatic stews to sweet, spiced desserts, every dish tells a story of the land, the climate, and the people who have nurtured its flavors for generations.