Thanksgiving is a time to gather with loved ones, enjoy hearty meals, and celebrate gratitude. But what foods are served by Iranians abroad to celebrate this day?
Usually, we Iranians associate all holidays and holidays with our foods and, so to speak, Iranianize them. Iranian foods that are related to Thanksgiving include Zereshk Polo Ba Morgh, Tahchin Morgh, and Fesenjan with Chicken.
Because turkey and chicken are used on Thanksgiving Day, we try to prepare and enjoy Iranian dishes related to this food. If you are also an Iranian abroad or would like to have a variety of Thanksgiving foods, stay with me until the end of the article.
Best Iranian Foods for Thanksgiving Dinner
If you’re looking to spice up your Thanksgiving dinner with something fresh, here’s a list of the most popular Iranian dishes that are perfect for the occasion:
| Dish | Type | Perfect for |
|---|---|---|
| Fesenjan | Stew (Main Course) | Main Course |
| Zereshk polo ba morgh | Stew (Main Course) | Main Course |
| Tahchin | Saffron Chicken Cake (Appetizer and Main Course) | Appetizer |
| Persian Baklava | Pastry (Dessert) | Dessert |
1. Fesenjan (Pomegranate and Walnut Stew) _ Best Iranian Foods for Thanksgiving
Fesenjan is a salty and slightly sweet (almost molasses) stew made with chicken or duck, walnuts, and pomegranate sauce.
A traditional Iranian stew that is often enjoyed by Iranians during Nowruz. You can serve this stew with saffron rice for a Thanksgiving meal and enjoy.
“Fesenjan is a Persian dish that beautifully balances sweet and sour flavors, offering a unique experience to those unfamiliar with Iranian cuisine” – The Spruce Eats.
2. Tahchin(Persian rice cake)
Chicken Tahchin is a traditional and delicious Iranian dish made from a combination of rice, chicken, yogurt, saffron, and eggs.
The excellent flavor of chicken and saffron in the layers covered with rice barberry and raisins are placed on top of it giving you a unique taste of Iranian food.
This dish is cooked in a rice cooker or oven and takes the form of a cake, which is cooked with layers of rice and saffron chicken.
” Tahchin is a classic Persian dish made with saffron rice and chicken layered and baked to perfection. Follow my recipe to learn how to make this classic savory saffron rice cake that’ll be a showstopper at any gathering._ Unicornsinthekitchen
3.Zereshk polo ba morgh
Zereshk polo ba morgh is a traditional Iranian dish that combines saffron rice, barberry, and boiled or roasted chicken to create a unique and balanced flavor of sourness and sweetness.
The delightful aroma of saffron and spices such as cinnamon and cumin, combined with the sour taste of barberry, make this dish a delicious and unforgettable dish.
Barberry pilaf with chicken, with its colorful and very beautiful appearance, is a popular choice for parties and Thanksgiving celebrations.
” Zereshk polo is Persian steamed rice, layered and/or topped with barberries. It is a sweet and sour dish. The barberries are gently sautéed on a low heat with sugar and bloomed saffron water before being added to the rice._ saffron and herbs
4. Persian Baklava
As you know, Thanksgiving is not complete without sweets. Persian baklava, with delicate layers of phyllo dough and sweet syrup infused with rose water and saffron, offers a delicious classic Iranian dessert that is served after the meal and with tea at the end of this celebration.
“Persian baklava uses rosewater to create a fragrant, rich dessert that contrasts beautifully with the crunch of the filo” – Saveur.
Conclusion:
Incorporating Persian food into your Thanksgiving celebration not only adds a new and exciting twist to the meal but also allows you to experience the fusion of two cultures on this night.
From savory stews to sweet desserts, these dishes can easily be incorporated into your holiday feast.
Whether you’re serving Fesanjan, barberry pilaf, Tahchin, or Persian baklava, your guests are sure to be thrilled by the scent of saffron and rose water to the delicious taste of chicken, and they’ll never forget these Persian dishes.
So, this Thanksgiving, why not try something new and introduce your family and friends to the unique flavors of Persian cuisine?
FAQ
1. Can I make Iranian dishes for Thanksgiving?
Yes! Dishes like Fesenjan, Zershk Polo Ba Morgh, and Tahchin are perfect for adding a special Iranian surprise to your Thanksgiving table.
2. What is the most popular Iranian dish for Thanksgiving?
Fesenjan (pomegranate and walnut stew) is one of the most beloved Iranian dishes and is great for Thanksgiving.
3. What are some Iranian desserts I can make for Thanksgiving?
Persian Baklava is perfect for a sweet end to your Thanksgiving meal.
4. How does Iranian food enhance the Thanksgiving experience?
Persian food brings a fusion of flavors and aromas to the celebration that you have never tasted before. The use of saffron, barberry, and rose water creates a unique flavor and aroma in Iranian food, making it memorable for guests and introducing them to Iranian cuisine.
Change up your Thanksgiving menu.
Are you ready to bring Iranian flavors to your Thanksgiving dinner this year? Try one of these unique dishes and share your experience with friends and family. Let us know how it turned out in the comments below!
