In this podcast episode Beata and Bita explore Persian cookies which are often presented on the Persian New Year Norooz sofreh haft-seen table spread, weddings, and special occasions. They also include a simple recipe for Naan Berenji Persian Rice Flour cookies to inspire their listeners.
What makes Persian cookies unique:
- Many of the cookie varieties
- Often ornately decorated, colorful and beautiful
- Naturally gluten-free; rice flour (naan berenji), chickpea flour (nokhodchi), nut-based
- Flavors - rose water, cardamom, cinnamon
Occasions and traditions to serve and enjoy Persian cookies:
- On the sofreh/table setting for special occasions
- Parties, with tea particularly
- Any occasion!
- Often presented in a variety of multiple types of cookies
Naan Berenji | Persian Rice Flour Cookies recipe share
- Equipment - a bowl, a spoon, and hands; a cookie press (optional), thimble, or small spoon
- Ingredients - oil, powdered sugar, rice flour, egg yolks, rose water (cardamom, optional)
- Recipe notes - rice flour produces a delicate cookie batter; refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours, overnight preferable
- Decorate with chia seeds or poppy seeds
- To elevate the decor, add edible gold glitter or edible gold paint
Ask the Beats
The Beats ask each other about their favorite type of cookie
Bita’s response - Naan berenji | Persian rice flour cookies, Russian tea cakes, any home-baked cookie that is made using powdered sugar.
Beata’s response - Naan nokhodchi, naan gerdooee (crunchy exterior, soft walnut interior), kaak - diamond shaped delicate layered cookie
Podcast episode references:
Episode 6 Shirini | Persian Desserts
Modern Persian Food Podcast: 3 part series about Norooz/Nowruz
Episode 22: Norooz part 1: Prelude to Persian New Year and Charshambeh Souri
Episode 23: Norooz Part 2, Persian New Year Haft-Seen and Food
Episode 24: Norooz Part 3: Persian New Year Sizdah Bedar
Bita’s recipe for Naan Berenji | Persian Rice Flour Cookies
All Modern Persian Food episodes can be found at: Episodes
Co-host Beata Nazem Kelley blog: BeatsEats – Persian Girl Desperately Addicted to Food!
Co-host Bita Arabian blog: Oven Hug - Healthy Persian Recipes | Modern Persian Recipes
Podcast production by Alvarez Audio