Iran in April!

Persian cuisine...yum, yum! The kids, including Cameron's adorable girlfriend, Kayeli, got to join us for this meal exploration. They gamely tried everything (although, there really weren't any foods that were too exotic to their American tastebuds and sensibilities.) Unfortunately, we neglected to take many photos.

                            The Menu:


Borani Esfanaaj (spinach yogurt dip)
Lavash (delicious homemade crackers)
Khoresht Fesenjaan (Chicken with Pomegranate Sauce)
Chelo (Persian Rice with Golden Crust)
Dugh (amazing yogurt drink with herbs)








Everything was delicious, but my favorite was the Dugh, a surprising beverage, with the bitterness of plain yogurt blended with the brightness of fresh mint and sparkling water.
             

Toasting our meal with glasses of Dugh

This meal was inspired by a fabulous book I came across at the Chapman Library, while assisting inspiring young artists as they performed an art installation under the direction of Utah Museum of Contemporary Art. A Taste for Adventure chronicles author Anik See's bicycling journeys to places around the world such as; Malaysia, Mexico, Armenia and, Iran! She provides recipes for each location. Food memoirs are my favorite genre of book...I might have to buy this one.

Lavash & Borani Esfanaaj (can you see the olive oil drizzles and pine nuts? YUM!)

As usual, one recipe proved slightly frustrating, our Persian Rice with Golden Crust never developed the promised "delicious golden crust" that forms on the bottom and is traditionally served to guests. Despite that disappointment, it was still buttery and saffron-y and tasty.