Offering Iranian/Persian specialties like spice blends, breads and even sweets and desserts, Foodhall's Persian Festival has quite a lot for you to look forward to. But, that's not all. This time around, you can not just stock up on the ingredients but also learn to whip up some Iranian dishes yourself! Head to the live demo counter at Foodhall where you'll get to sample a signature dish {changes every week}. You will also find recipe cards with details of ingredients and preparation methods to guide you. Got a doubt? Ask away and the expert chefs at the counter will help you. With four dishes chosen for the month-long festival {one for each week},we suggest you get started rightaway. But, first, check out what's in store for you.
Persian Berry & Rice Pilaf
Traditionally made with barberries {an important ingredient in Iranian cuisine}, the pilaf, also known as Zereshk Polow, has a blend of sweet and spicy flavours with the berries lending a tinge of tartness. Add in a pinch of saffron and you've got a delicious rice preparation which can be paired with roast chicken or the signature eggplant preparation {given below}.
Eggplant & Tomato Stew
This classic Persian eggplant stew {Khoresht-e-Bademjan} is prepared in a tomato-based sauce. You can even try adding beef or chicken, if you want a meatier dish. Serve it with a pilaf or just ladle it over some steamed basmati rice, and tuck in.
Dill & Fava Bean Rice
Made by layering cooked rice with dill and fava beans {broad beans}, this Iranian favourite goes well with anything from vegetarian to lamb or fish preparations. Oh, and you could even give it the perfect finishing touch and season it with a dash of Persian advieh {a spice blend}.
Ghormeh Sabzi
Said to be Iran's national dish, the history of this signature herb stew is said to date back to over 500 years. Made with sauteed greens, the main ingredients mostly include parsley, spinach and leeks along with beans. While it is ideal for vegetarians, meat lovers can go ahead and add lamb or beef as well.
But, if you want to go beyond just reading {and trying out} recipes, there's also a workshop to attend {at Foodhall, 1 MG Mall}, headed by renowned chef, Abhijit Saha. Chicken Jujeh Kebabs, Kifta Nayee and other delicacies are on the cards, we hear. Find more about it here.
Where: Find your nearest Foodhall here.
When: 10am-10pm, the festival is on till 5 April
Contact: 080 22086533
Find them on Facebook here.
Check out their website here.
