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| Desserts
Recipe:
Saffron Pudding
The rice desserts of Iran are served at any time of the day, not just at the end of a meal. Some are associated with special events.
Katchi, a saffron cream, for example, is eaten by new mothers
on the first and fifth days after giving birth as part of a ceremony in
which a holy person whispers the newborn child's name in his or her ear.
It is also very good for nursing mothers. Halva, a saffron brownie, is prepared during the first three
days after a death and after the eve of the seventh and fortieth days
of mourning. It is offered to family, friends, and the poor. Sholeh
zard, a saffron pudding, is reserved for the holiday in remembrance
of the dead. It serves as an offering to the poor or as thanksgiving for
a wish come true. All of these dishes may be eaten hot or cold. I prefer to serve them well-chilled. They may be presented in individual dishes or in a large serving bowl. |
Credits: All photos and recipes from New Food of Life: Ancient Persian & Modern Iranian Cooking & Ceremonies or Silk Road Cooking: a Vegetarian Journey, copyright Najmieh Batmanglij 1986-2004. Courtesy of Mage Publishers, 1032 29th St. NW, Washington, DC 20007. |
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