Introduction to Traditional Shirazi Foods | shiraz shish kabob
One of Iran’s important and popular tourist destinations, drawing a significant number of tourists and visitors annually due to its numerous attractions, is the melodious city of Shiraz. While its historical sites and tourist attractions are well-known, the traditional foods of Shiraz should not be overlooked. Visiting local restaurants in this city and savoring its delicious traditional dishes will undoubtedly create an unforgettable memory for you. Join us as we introduce traditional Shirazi foods.
1- Dov Piazeh Aloo (Potato Stew with Onions)
Dov Piazeh Aloo is considered one of the most beloved and famous traditional dishes of Shiraz, known for its simple preparation and quick cooking. The main ingredients include boiled potatoes, onions, tomatoes or tomato paste, and spices. Some people add two-layered minced meat to enhance the flavor.
You might be wondering when to add the “Aloo” (potato) to the dish. It’s interesting to note that in Shirazi dialect, “Aloo” actually means potato, causing confusion for non-locals when hearing the dish’s name. Dov Piazeh Aloo is a delicious and flavorful dish, often enjoyed for dinner with bread. We recommend trying it on your next trip to Shiraz.
2- Kalam Polo Shirazi (Shirazi Cabbage Rice)
Another delicious and popular traditional dish in Shiraz is Kalam Polo. The ingredients include cabbage, onions, rice, minced meat, chickpea flour, and aromatic herbs such as tarragon, basil, savory, and dill.
To prepare Kalam Polo, the cabbage is chopped and sautéed with onions, and then aromatic herbs and spices are added. After boiling the rice, it is mixed with the prepared mixture. In another pan, minced meat, previously seasoned with chickpea flour and spices, is fried with oil and a bit of vinegar and later added to the main dish.
The taste of Kalam Polo Shirazi is delightful and falls among high-quality and healthy dishes. It is typically served with yogurt and local herbs.
3- Ghormeh Polo (Walnut and Pomegranate Stew)
Ghormeh Polo can be classified as a traditional Shirazi dish often prepared for gatherings and celebrations. The main ingredients include rice, minced meat, walnuts, onions, pomegranate paste or syrup, chickpea flour, raisins, and spices.
To make this dish, a mixture of walnuts, onions, pomegranate paste, and raisins is combined and minced meat is kneaded into small, finely minced meatballs. Subsequently, the rice is drained, and the meatball mixture is placed between the layers of rice. The unique flavor of Ghormeh Polo comes from the addition of pomegranate and raisins, providing a sweet and tangy taste. It’s worth noting that instead of raisins, dates or grape syrup can also be used to sweeten the dish. Ghormeh Polo Shirazi is delicious and paired with Shirazi salad, it becomes even more delightful.
4- Shirazi Polo (Shirazi Rice)
One of the most beautiful and appetizing local dishes in Shiraz is Shirazi Polo, which not only delights the taste buds but also boasts an exceptional appearance. In this dish, Shirazis use rice, chicken, eggplant, yogurt, barberry, saffron, and spices. It is commonly served with Shirazi salad.
Shirazi Polo is a staple on tables during gatherings and celebrations, cherished for its popularity and flavor. For decoration, besides saffron and barberry, crushed pistachios and orange or tangerine peel can also be used. When traveling to Shiraz, be sure to try Shirazi Polo.
5- Ghormeh Be (Sweet Stew)
Shiraz offers numerous sweet dishes, and Ghormeh Be is one that cannot be overlooked. This sweet stew is a traditional Shirazi dish made with pomegranate, sugar, meat, onions, saffron, and spices.
This stew falls into the category of sweet dishes, and the addition of pomegranate gives it a delightful taste. If you’re a fan of sweet dishes, be sure to try Ghormeh Be. To fully enjoy Shiraz and its enticing cuisine, consider planning your trip during the appropriate season, as detailed in Jabama magazine.
6- Shakar Polo (Sugar Rice)
Another sweet dish in Shiraz that lives up to its name is Shakar Polo. This dish is highly popular among Shirazis and is made with sugar, rice, crushed pistachios, crushed almonds, crushed orange or tangerine peel, and saffron.
To prepare Shakar Polo, sugar is dissolved in water along with saffron, and this syrup is added before boiling the rice. Crushed almonds, pistachios, and orange or tangerine peel are used for decoration. Shakar Polo is often served with Gheimeh stew.
7- Havij Polo (Carrot Rice)
Havij Polo is one of the main and local dishes in Shiraz, renowned for its sweet flavor. This appetizing dish consists of carrots, rice, sugar, minced meat, saffron, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Grated carrots are sautéed with oil, and then sugar-water with saffron is added.
Minced meat, seasoned with cinnamon, salt, and pepper, is shaped into small meatballs and fried until golden. After draining the rice, the mixture of ingredients and meatballs are layered with the rice. Crushed almonds and pistachios can be used for garnishing. Ensure to dedicate one of your meals to Havij Polo on your next trip to Shiraz.
8- Yakhni Nokhod (Chickpea Stew)
If you enjoy hearty and meat-based stews, you’ll surely appreciate Yakhni Nokhod, another traditional dish in Shiraz. Essentially, Yakhni Nokhod is a type of broth stew, and its main ingredients include meat, chickpeas, potatoes, onions, salt, pepper, and turmeric.
The taste of Yakhni Nokhod is delightful, and it is typically served with hot bread, fresh herbs, and pickles. Interestingly, “Yakhni” in Persian means cooked. If you want to create a memorable and enjoyable experience during your trip to Shiraz, make sure to try Yakhni Nokhod.
9- Robb Polo (Pomegranate Stew)
Another local dish in Shiraz, usually served for lunch, is Robb Polo. The ingredients for this Shirazi dish include rice, pomegranate paste, walnuts, raisins, sugar, and onions.
To prepare this dish, Shirazis combine raisins, walnuts, and sautéed onions. In another container, they mix oil, pomegranate paste, and sugar. After draining the rice, they add the pomegranate mixture to it, followed by layering with raisins, walnuts, and sautéed onions in the middle part of the rice.
Robb Polo is very delicious and, despite its simplicity, is quite nutritious due to the presence of walnuts, raisins, and pomegranate paste. This dish is an excellent choice for vegetarians as it does not contain meat. It is often served with fresh herbs or Shirazi salad.
10- Ashkeneh (Shirazi Porridge)
Ashkeneh Shirazi can be considered one of the authentic dishes of Fars province, usually consumed for dinner. Ashkeneh is one of the most beloved traditional Iranian dishes prepared in many cities across the country, but its primary ingredients and preparation method vary.
In Ashkeneh Shirazi, they use fenugreek greens, dried mint, eggs, salt, and turmeric, creating an extraordinary combination of flavors. This dish is among the lighter traditional foods in Shiraz, making it easy to digest and quick to prepare. Interestingly, it is also known as “Ab Peyazak” in the local vocabulary.
11- Koofteh Holo (Holo Meatballs)
One of the popular and delicious dishes in Shiraz is Koofteh Holo. Although various types of meatballs are prepared in different cities across Iran, Shirazi Koofteh Holo stands out as one of the most flavorful.
In this type of meatball, minced meat, chickpea flour, carrots, onions, eggs, and spices are used. The name is attributed to its appearance and color, but some mistakenly think that one of its main ingredients is apricot. The combination of pomegranate paste, carrots, and aromatic herbs promises a delightful sauce that shouldn’t be overlooked. Note that some variations use ingredients like raisins, barberries, walnuts, and sautéed onions for the filling. When traveling to Shiraz, savor the joy of Koofteh Holo.
12- Loobia Polo Shirazi (Shirazi Green Bean Rice)
The most unique and attractive traditional dish in Shiraz is arguably Loobia Polo. You might say that green bean rice is prepared in all cities in Iran and is not exclusive to Shiraz. However, Shirazis use flat beans instead of green beans in their Loobia Polo, setting it apart from the version prepared in other Iranian cities.
To prepare Loobia Polo Shirazi, flat beans, diced meat, rice, dill, saffron, cinnamon, salt, and pepper are needed. Due to the presence of meat and flat beans, Loobia Polo is considered a nutritious and wholesome dish with an exceptional taste. It’s worth noting that some people use chicken instead of meat in this dish. Serving Shirazi salad alongside Loobia Polo enhances its flavor.
13- Dampokhtak
Among the other traditional dishes in Shiraz, Dampokhtak stands out as one of the delicacies on the tables of Shirazi households. Dampokhtak is one of the beloved dishes of Shiraz, prepared throughout the year, especially during the winter season.
This dish is straightforward to make and involves rice, lentils, carrots, small cabbages, spices, and aromatic herbs such as tarragon, parsley, dill, basil, and summer savory. No meat is used in this dish, making it an excellent choice for those who are vegetarians and desire a nutritious meal. Alongside Dampokhtak, Shirazi salad or fresh herbs can be served to enhance its taste.
14- Ash-e Sabzi (Herb Soup)
One of the most famous traditional dishes in Shiraz that every traveler seeks to try upon arriving in the city is Ash-e Sabzi. This soup is specific to Shirazis and has an exceptionally delightful taste. The primary ingredients of Ash-e Sabzi include rice, meat, white beans, lentils, chickpeas, cinnamon, oil, and herbs such as tarragon, summer savory, and dill.
Shirazis mostly enjoy Ash-e Sabzi for breakfast, and many shops prepare and sell it. Interestingly, long queues form in front of Ash-selling shops in Shiraz on Friday mornings. Trying Ash-e Sabzi once in Shiraz is enough to make you fall in love with it.
One of the most beautiful attractions in Shiraz is Shah Cheragh, and now that you’re eager to visit Shiraz, it’s a good time to get acquainted with the famous Shah Cheragh, its history, and attractions in Jabama Magazine.
15- Ash-e Mast (Yogurt Soup)
Another popular soup in Shiraz is Ash-e Mast, well-known among the locals. The soup has a bright color due to the presence of yogurt, and it is garnished with fried onions. The ingredients for Ash-e Mast include rice, turnip greens, meat, onions, yogurt, spices, and herbs like dill and tarragon. The combination of these ingredients results in a flavorful soup.
16- Koofteh Sabzi Shirazi (Shirazi Herb Meatballs)
Among the authentic and local dishes of Shiraz, Koofteh Sabzi stands out as a highly popular choice. In Shirazi Herb Meatballs, ingredients such as minced meat, chickpeas, onions, and herbs like tarragon, coriander, dill, basil, and summer savory are used.
The size of Koofteh Sabzi is slightly larger compared to other meatballs, and it is usually served with fresh bread and raw herbs. Be sure to try this local dish during your trip to Shiraz.
17.Shish Kebab Shirazi
As you may know, kebabs are among the Asian dishes that are prevalent, especially in Middle Eastern countries. Shish Kebab is one type of kebab with its origins traced back to countries like Turkey and Lebanon. However, due to its exceptional taste, this dish is now served in various parts of the world. The combination of meat and vegetables makes this dish beneficial for the body.
The name “Shish Kebab” is reminiscent of “shishlik,” and both terms are derived from the Turkish word “şiş,” meaning skewer. Shish Kebab can also be made with chicken. Essentially, Shish Kebab involves marinated or seasoned meat, delivering a delightful peppery taste. The best part of the meat for kebabs is the sirloin, as it provides a superior flavor compared to other meat sections. To marinate the meat, let it rest in the marinade for at least 2 hours. Marinating overnight in the refrigerator with a covered container is recommended for a more flavorful kebab.
Shish Kebab Shirazi, due to its diverse array of colorful ingredients, is an excellent choice for those who want a vibrant table setting. The recipe includes meat, onions, bell peppers, thick yogurt, lemon juice, diced tomatoes, saffron, black pepper, garlic, olive oil, mint, and salt.
Ingredients:
300 grams finely chopped white onions
1 kilogram veal fillet or lean beef
3 colorful bell peppers
200 grams full-fat yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
12 finely chopped tomatoes
2 tablespoons grated onions
1 teaspoon saffron
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 cloves of garlic
5 tablespoons olive oil
50 grams fresh mint
Salt to taste
Shish Kebab Shirazi Recipe at Home:
To prepare Shirazi Shish Kebab, first dissolve saffron in a small amount of hot water. Then add the saffron infusion to yogurt along with grated onions, chopped garlic, mint, bell peppers, lemon juice, and olive oil. Mix well and add finely chopped tomatoes to the yogurt mixture.
In the next step of preparing Shish Kebab, marinate the finely chopped meat cubes in the yogurt mixture for 10 to 12 hours. After the specified time, thread the marinated meat, peeled onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes alternately onto skewers. Place the skewers on gentle heat until the meat and vegetables are grilled.
Transfer the kebabs to a serving dish, sprinkle some butter and salt on top. Serve this delicious dish with rice.
Side Dishes:
Shish Kebab is a hearty dish, suitable for breakfast and afternoon snacks. Pairing it with local beverages like doogh (yogurt drink) is a wise choice. Additionally, side dishes like Shirazi salad or cucumber salad can complement the meal perfectly.
Final Words
The city of Shiraz boasts a rich variety of traditional dishes, and we have endeavored to introduce some of them to you. If you have traveled to this city or are familiar with more traditional dishes from Shiraz, feel free to share them with us on Gulf City Pedia. We have tried our best to showcase a selection, and there is undoubtedly much more to explore in the culinary delights of Shiraz.
Are you looking for a place to enjoy the most delicious traditional dishes of Shiraz? Here, we have gathered 12 of the best restaurants in Shiraz for you, complete with addresses and recommended dishes. Try them all in one place
