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Love, sweetness, and deep cultural symbolism take center stage in this Valentine's season episode of The Modern Persian Food Podcast. 💛 In Episode 185, Beata and Bita explore honey and figs—two ingredients that have long represented love, abundance, sensuality, and connection in Persian culture and beyond. As part of our ongoing February tradition, we reflect on how food helps us express affection, nurture relationships, and stay connected to our heritage. In this episode, we cover: 🍯 Honey: its ancient history, healing properties, and role as a symbol of sweetness, devotion, and prosperity 🌿 Figs: their deep roots in Persian and Middle Eastern food culture, fertility symbolism, and poetic presence 💬 Persian terms of endearment inspired by food and sweetness—old-world expressions and how they're used today 📜 Cultural and historical significance of honey and figs in Persian traditions and celebrations 🥗 Old-world and modern recipes featuring honey and figs, from comforting classics to fresh, contemporary ideas ❤️ How cooking and sharing food create intimacy, connection, and meaning—especially during the month of love We also share ways you can bring these ingredients into your own kitchen to create moments of warmth and romance—whether you're cooking for a partner, friends, family, or yourself. ✨ Plus: Learn more about Bita's health coaching practice visit her website:  Coach Bita Wellness.  First coaching session is free, schedule  HERE Explore Beata's Persian cooking classes in the Bay Area, designed to help you connect with culture, community, and joyful living. Persian Cooking Classes with Beata Nazem Kelley – BeatsEats If you love Persian food, cultural storytelling, and using food as a bridge to love and belonging, this episode is for you. 🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts, and don't forget to subscribe, rate, and share with someone you love. Recipes from this episode: Persian Fig Jam – Morabah Anjeer – BeatsEats   All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes   Sign up for the email newsletter here!   Check us out on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube   Subscribe+ to the Modern Persian Food podcast on your favorite podcast player, and share this episode with a friend.   Opening and closing music composed by Amir Etemadzadeh, www.amirschoolofmusic.com Podcast production by Alvarez Audio

In episode #184 of Modern Persian Food, we explore two emerging trends that are reshaping home cooking: using AI to spark Persian recipe ideas and incorporating resistant starches for better gut health.   Bita Arabian shares how she's been turning to AI for quick menu inspiration—especially when trying to use up ingredients already in her fridge. From brainstorming Persian-inspired meals to reducing food waste and unlocking creative flavor pairings, she shows how technology can be a helpful (and fun!) kitchen sidekick.   Beata Nazem Kelley then highlights the growing conversation around resistant starches, explaining what they are, why they matter, and how Persian dishes naturally lend themselves to this gut-healthy approach. She offers simple examples of foods that increase resistant starch when cooked and cooled—like rice, potatoes, legumes, and whole grains—and suggests easy recipes and techniques to maximize their benefits.   If you enjoyed this episode, tell a friend! And we'd love to hear from you: How are you using AI to inspire your cooking? What resistant starch foods or Persian/Persian-inspired dishes are you trying at home?   Recipes: Ash Reshteh Persian Noodle, Bean, and Herb Soup - BeatsEats Persian Rice with Tahdig (Katte Recipe) – BeatsEats Persian Salad Olivieh – BeatsEats Persian Haleem Recipe (Oat & Chicken Porridge) | Nourishing & Satisfying – BeatsEats Maast o Khiar (Persian Cucumber and Yogurt Dip) – BeatsEats Maast-o Laboo – Persian Beet and Yogurt Dip – BeatsEats   Additional Resources: Coach Bita Wellness Coaching Consultation Call for Wellness Coaching - Schedule HERE   Persian Cooking Classes with Beata Nazem Kelley – BeatsEats Contact [email protected] More info on Resistant Starches HERE:  https://beatseats.com/🌾-resistant-starches-persian-cooking-a-delicious-way-to-support-gut-health/ Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube so you never miss an episode.   All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes   Sign up for the email newsletter here!   Subscribe+ to the Modern Persian Food podcast on your favorite podcast player.   Opening and closing music composed by Amir Etemadzadeh, www.amirschoolofmusic.com Podcast production by Alvarez Audio 

In this festive episode of Modern Persian Food, co-hosts Beata and Bita welcome listeners into the warm glow of Shab-e Yalda, the Persian Winter Solstice celebration. They kick things off by reminiscing about memorable Yalda moments from past episodes—stories filled with family traditions, cozy gatherings, and of course, food.   From there, the conversation explores the history and meaning of Yalda, diving into the symbolism behind the holiday's signature color, red. The hosts share how foods like pomegranates, watermelon, and crimson-hued nuts represent warmth, light, and the triumph of the sun as the nights begin to shorten.   Naturally, no Yalda episode is complete without talking about snacking. Beata and Bita highlight classic Yalda treats along with fun, modern twists you can bring to your own celebration. They chat about everything from dried fruits and mixed nuts to the sweet and savory bites that keep everyone grazing late into the longest night of the year.   To inspire your own celebration, the co-hosts each offer creative ideas to upgrade your Yalda table (sofreh). Expect tips on thematic décor, color palettes, and layout—plus a whimsical dessert idea guaranteed to spark delight for guests of all ages. Whether you're hosting a traditional gathering or adding your own flair, you'll come away with fresh ways to make your Yalda night meaningful, beautiful, and delicious.   Tune in to learn:   - The cultural and historical roots of Yalda - Why the color red is at the heart of the holiday - Snackable must-haves for the longest night - Simple upgrades to elevate your Yalda sofreh   A fun and unexpected dessert idea to end the night sweetly   Celebrate light, warmth, and community—Yalda style!   All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes   Sign up for the email newsletter here!   Check us out on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube   Subscribe+ to the Modern Persian Food podcast on your favorite podcast player, and share this episode with a friend. Opening and closing music composed by Amir Etemadzadeh, www.amirschoolofmusic.com Podcast producition by Alvarez Audio

In this vibrant episode of the Modern Persian Food Podcast, cohosts Beata and Bita dive into the dazzling world of Jeweled Persian Rice (Morassa Polo or Javaher Polo) — the show-stopping dish that shines at celebrations and feasts. They share the story and history behind this sweet, tangy, and aromatic rice, layered with colorful "jewels" like dried fruits, candied orange peel, pistachios, and carrots. You'll hear their favorite toppings, flavor combinations, and customizable variations, plus practical tips and tricks to help your jeweled rice turn out perfectly balanced — not too sweet, not too heavy, and full of fragrance. Later in the episode, Beata and Bita chat about what's been cooking in their kitchens this season, from a Persian-inspired granola to new flavor twists on Haleem, the comforting slow-cooked porridge that's a cold-weather favorite. Whether you're a seasoned Persian cook or just discovering this beautiful cuisine, this episode will inspire you to bring more color, creativity, and culture to your table. Listen now and get inspired to create your own Persian masterpiece! #PersianFood #ModernPersianFoodPodcast #JeweledRice #MorassaPolo #PersianCooking #PersianCuisine #FoodPodcast #CookingInspiration Recipes: BeatsEats - Persisn Jeweled Rice BeatsEats - Haleem Oat Porridge BeatsEats - Jeweled Tahchin BeatsEats - Jeweled Cinnamon Rolls All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes   Sign up for the email newsletter here!   Check us out on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube   Subscribe+ to the Modern Persian Food podcast on your favorite podcast player, and share this episode with a friend.   Opening and closing music composed by Amir Etemadzadeh, www.amirschoolofmusic.com Podcast production by Alvarez Audio

Do you love it, hate it, or just find it a little too weird? In this episode of the Modern Persian Food Podcast, we explore Doogh, the salty, tangy, and refreshing fermented yogurt drink that's a staple in Persian cuisine. Join us as we share: The origin story of Doogh and its role in Persian food culture How Persians traditionally drink Doogh and the best dishes to pair it with Special audio clips from Doogh fans Creative and modern ways to enjoy Doogh today An easy recipe for homemade Doogh you can try in your own kitchen Whether you're a longtime Doogh lover or tasting it for the first time, this episode will give you a new appreciation for this iconic Persian yogurt beverage. ✨ What you'll learn: What is Doogh? Why some people love it and others find it "too tangy" How to pair Doogh with Persian meals Tips for making your own authentic Doogh recipe at home Tune in, sip along, and discover why Doogh continues to spark debate at Persian tables around the world! Episodes referenced: Episode 36: Persian Drinks | Nooshidani Episode 65: Persian Cocktails Episode 9: Persian Tea | Chai Episode 5: Yogurt Episode 107: Demystify the Ancient Persian Medicine of Hot and Cold Food with Candice Walker of the Proportional Plate   All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes   Sign up for the email newsletter here!   Check us out on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube   Subscribe+ to the Modern Persian Food podcast on your favorite podcast player, and share this episode with a friend.   Opening and closing music composed by Amir Etemadzadeh, www.amirschoolofmusic.com Podcast production by Alvarez Audio

Podcast Show Notes Episode #180 – Summer Plates, Persian Roots This week, Bita and Beata catch up after a full summer of food, life, and cultural connection. From refreshing drinks to layered rice dishes, they share what's been inspiring them in the kitchen and beyond. 🍉 Beata's Summer Creations: Cooling melon-based drinks that make hot afternoons sweeter Goat cheese sabzi khordan wraps, perfect for picnics and concerts in the park A new chapter: teaching Persian cooking classes to connect more deeply with her heritage and inspire others 🍚 Bita's Summer in the Kitchen: Experimenting with lighter, healthier variations of tahchin by mixing in extra grains Celebrating her brand-new certification as a pediatric health coach and how it influences her cooking approach While this summer began on a somber note in the world, both hosts reflect on how food can be a bridge—for healing, culture, and togetherness. Through the flavors of Persian tradition, they hope to offer listeners a sense of comfort, joy, and inspiration. ✨ Tune in to hear their stories, recipes, and reflections on how cooking can nourish both body and soul. Past episodes and recipe references: Episode 31: Cultural Spotlight: Caspian Sea Regional Foods with Special Guest The Caspian Chef Episode 71: Medicinal Properties of Persian Spices with Dr. Mahtab Jafari Episode 133: Kashk with Omid The Caspian Chef Episode 173: Celebrating Yalda: A Persian Winter Solstice Tradition   Persian Salad Olivieh – BeatsEats Maast o Khiar (Persian Cucumber and Yogurt Dip) – BeatsEats Persian Jeweled Tahchin – BeatsEats   All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes   Sign up for the email newsletter here!   Check us out on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube   Subscribe+ to the Modern Persian Food podcast on your favorite podcast player, and share this episode with a friend.   Opening and closing music composed by Amir Etemadzadeh, www.amirschoolofmusic.com Podcast production by Alvarez Audio

Get your skewers ready — it's time to fire up the grill! In this summer-inspired episode of the Modern Persian Food podcast, we're diving into one of the most beloved traditions in Persian cuisine: grilling! Whether you're working with a backyard BBQ or just your stovetop or air fryer, we're sharing all the secrets to achieving that authentic smoky flavor that makes Persian kabobs and grilled vegetables truly unforgettable. We break down the different grilling methods, must-have tools, marinades, and how to hack the grill experience even if you don't have one. From juicy kabob koobideh and saffron chicken to grilled tomatoes and eggplants, you'll learn how to bring the flavors of a Persian summer to your table — wherever you are. In This Episode, We Cover: The different types of grills you can use (charcoal, gas, electric, stovetop grill pans) Must-have tools for grilling Persian-style Our go-to marinades and seasoning techniques for Persian grilling What to serve alongside your Persian BBQ spread Our favorite vegetarian-friendly grilled sides And some of our favorite memories! Links and Resources:   Episode 141: Discover the Tantalizing Taste of Balal: Persian Grilled CornEpisode 86: Persian  Episode 140: Savoring Summer: Joojeh Kabob for Your Summer Cookouts Episode 86: Persian Kababs Episode 68: Smoky Persian Flavors Episode 4: Onions   All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes   Sign up for the email newsletter here!   Check us out on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube   Subscribe+ to the Modern Persian Food podcast on your favorite podcast player, and share this episode with a friend.   Opening and closing music composed by Amir Etemadzadeh, www.amirschoolofmusic.com Podcast production by Alvarez Audio

In this delicious episode, we dive into the enchanting world of Persian sweets, where every bite tells a story. Join us as we explore the artful balance of crispy, syrupy, soft, and chewy textures that make these desserts irresistible.   We journey through regional specialties, from the delicate kaak of Kermanshah to the fragrant sohan of Isfahan. We share some of our favorite flavors and memories tied to these traditional treats — think saffron, rosewater, pistachios, and more.   Whether you're nostalgic for a childhood favorite or discovering Persian desserts for the first time, this episode promises a sweet escape into a world rich with history, flavor, and craftsmanship.   Thank you for joining us — and don't forget to leave a review or share this episode if you loved today's taste of tradition!   Episodes referenced:  Episode 74: Persian Cookies   Recipes referenced: Persian Tea Cookies with Aunt Pari Joon – BeatsEats   All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes   Sign up for the email newsletter here!   Check us out on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube   Subscribe+ to the Modern Persian Food podcast on your favorite podcast player, and share this episode with a friend.   Opening and closing music composed by Amir Etemadzadeh, www.amirschoolofmusic.com Podcast production by Alvarez Audio

In episode #177 of the Modern Persian Food Podcast, we take on the challenge of creating a delicious Persian-inspired four-course meal using only ingredients from Trader Joe's! Whether you're short on time or just looking for easy ways to incorporate Persian flavors into your cooking, we've got you covered. We share our favorite Trader Joe's hacks, shortcuts, and pantry staples that help bring the essence of Persian cuisine to your table—without the fuss! What You'll Learn in This Episode: ✅ How to craft a full Persian meal (appetizer/sides, main, drinks, and dessert) using Trader Joe's finds ✅ Clever ingredient swaps that keep things simple while staying true to Persian flavors ✅ Time-saving hacks for busy weeknights and Persian food on-the-go ✅ Must-have Trader Joe's products to stock up on for Persian cooking Join the Conversation! We'd love to hear how you use Trader Joe's products to make Persian-inspired meals! Tag us on social media or leave us a review and share your favorite Persian food hacks. Tune in now and get inspired to cook Persian food the easy way! Episodes and Resources: All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes Maast-o Laboo – Persian Beets and Yogurt – BeatsEats Persian Jeweled Tahchin – BeatsEats Vegan Khoresh Karafs – Celery Stew With Mint and Parsley – BeatsEats Ash Reshteh | Persian Noodle Soup – BeatsEats Lubia Polo for the Persian New Year Sezdeh be Dar Picnic – BeatsEats   Sign up for the email newsletter here!   Check us out on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube   Subscribe+ to the Modern Persian Food podcast on your favorite podcast player, and share this episode with a friend. Opening and closing music composed by Amir Etemadzadeh, www.amirschoolofmusic.com   Podcast production by Alvarez Audio

Get ready for the biggest holiday in the Persian culture by spring cleaning your kitchen, home, and mind! Persian New Year, also known also as Nowruz or Norooz, marks the beginning of spring and is celebrated around the world.    In this episode, we'll give you the tools to tackle "Khooneh Takoni" spring cleaning through your house and life, and prepare for a clean slate to start the new year off on. The beginning of the year is about renewal, a fresh start, and hope for a bright future.    We'll share an overview of the Nowruz/Norooz season, covering off traditions and rituals to get us ready, how to celebrate the actual event, including what to eat, and the grand final nature picnic on the 13th day after Nowruz.   Green foods are the staple for this occasion and we chat about our favorite dishes and how to serve them.   Check out these previous episodes for an indepth listen to Nowruz/Norooz Persian New Year: Episode 22:  Prelude to Persian New Year and Char Shambeh Souri  Episode 23 :  Persian New Year Haftseen and Food  Episode 24:  Persian New Year Siz Da Bedar   Episode 73: Growing Sabzeh with Naz Deravian Episode 75:  Norooz Haftseen  Episode 126:  Persian New Year Nowruz  Episode 128: Setting Sofreh Episode 164:  Extra Sweet Nowruz with Zozo Baking    All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes   Sign up for the email newsletter here!   Check us out on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube   Subscribe+ to the Modern Persian Food podcast on your favorite podcast player, and share this episode with a friend.   Opening and closing music composed by Amir Etemadzadeh, www.amirschoolofmusic.com   Podcast production by Alvarez Audio

Join us for a fun conversation as we explore the stunning and symbolic Persian Love Cake. Learn how to make it using Bita's recipe from scratch, or Beata's shortcuts for an easy version. We customize with flavors of almond, cardamom, saffron and rosewater and include modern twists and tips to inspire you.    In the second half of the episode, we chat about Food as an expression of Love, especially in Persian culture, and also what we've been eating lately. We get personal about our gut and what some of our comfort foods are.   Recipes Referenced: Bita's recipe for Flourless Almond Cake | Persian Love Cake Beata's recipe for Nourishing Persian Haleem: Oat Porridge with Chicken – BeatsEats   Episodes Referenced: Episode 85:  Persian Weddings Episode 123:  Persian Dates Episode 135:  Bachelor Cooking with Reza Jax   All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes   Sign up for the email newsletter here!   Check us out on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube   Subscribe+ to the Modern Persian Food podcast on your favorite podcast player, and share this episode with a friend.   Opening and closing music composed by Amir Etemadzadeh, www.amirschoolofmusic.com   Podcast production by Alvarez Audio

Today in episode 174, we'll explore the essential kitchen tools and gadgets needed to cook delicious Persian food – and the surprising part is, you may already have most of them! Persian cuisine is full of rich flavors, diverse textures, and comforting dishes. We want to encourage you to embrace cooking Persian food in the new year: Get ready to be the chef in your own kitchen and try making some classic Persian dishes or new modern twists!   Podcast episode is broken into 2 categories:  The Basics Specialty Tools that make Persian cooking easier, faster, more convenient   Why make Persian food? Health benefits  A way to connect with family traditions or challenge yourself in the new year  Can layer flavors and create delicious meals with short ingredient lists and easy techniques. Gather your tools, pick a recipe and get cooking!   Send us your pics and cooking experiences with us and we'll try to share it on our social pages.    All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes   Sign up for the email newsletter here!   Check us out on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube   Subscribe+ to the Modern Persian Food podcast on your favorite podcast player, and share this episode with a friend.   Opening and closing music composed by Amir Etemadzadeh, www.amirschoolofmusic.com   Recipes referenced: Persian Salad Olivieh Tips and tricks on how to make Persian style Salad Olivieh potato salad with eggs and chicken. Persian Style Saffron Braised Lamb Shank Persian Jeweled Tahchin Maast-o Laboo – Persian Beets and Yogurt Kateh Persian Rice with Tahdig   Podcast production by Alvarez Audio

Join us for our annual Yalda Winter Solstice episode where we celebrate Shab Yalda, the longest and darkest night of the year!  In this episode, we feature members of our community to honor Persian traditions of poetry, storytelling, music, and of course food!   Stay up late with your family and friends, drinking tea, and eating ajeel trail mix, pomegranate soup, and watermelon! Send us your pics and video clips to be featured on our social media pages.    Links referenced in the episode:   Modern Persian Food Podcast's previous Yalda episodes: Episode 161: Yalda 2023; Creating Identity through Traditions New and Old Episode 114: Yalda Winter Solstice Episode 63: Yalda Episode 10: Yalda Winter Flavors   Omid Roustaei, Chef and Author: Website: The Caspian Chef - Pre-order book: Bitter & Sweet    Anahita Tamaddon, author: Fereydoon and the Serpent King full story recording on YouTube The story of Fereydoon & the Serpent King, read by author Anahita Tamaddon, on Modern Persian Food Link to her books: Amazon   Amir Etemadzadeh, musical composer and instructor: Amir School Of Music   All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes   Sign up for the email newsletter here!   Check us out on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube   Subscribe+ to the Modern Persian Food podcast on your favorite podcast player, and share this episode with a friend.   Opening and closing music composed by Amir Etemadzadeh, www.amirschoolofmusic.com   Podcast production by Alvarez Audio

Join us for an exciting exploration of Persian-inspired pies perfect for Thanksgiving and fall. We kick off the episode by sharing our love for the big fall holiday, Thanksgiving, a time of gratitude and family togetherness, and how we blend Persian and American traditions at our holiday tables. This year, we've introduced a new interactive format where each presents unique pie recipes we've developed and shares creative culinary ideas for savory and sweet pies. Our goal is to inspire you to embrace cross-cultural dining experiences, enriching your cultural identity through the joy of food.   Our Ask The Beats segment is inspired by a recent listener interaction who asked us to take a closer look at Shirazi Kalam Polo. We share our personal experiences and tips for making this vibrant cabbage and mini meatball dish a show-stopping addition to any table. Join us as we celebrate the beauty and flavors of fusion cuisine and get ready for upcoming episodes that promise to deepen your culinary journey.   Links to previous Thanksgiving episodes: Episode 160: Fall Flavors for a Persian-Inspired Thanksgiving  Episode 111: Persian American Thanksgiving Episode 60:  Persian Thanksgiving Leftovers  Episode 59:  Persian Thanksgiving Episode 58: Lubia Polo | Green Bean Rice Episode 57: Zereshk Polo | Barberry Rice   All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at Episodes   Sign up for the email newsletter here!   Check us out on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube   Subscribe to the Modern Persian Food podcast on your favorite podcast player, and share this episode with a friend.   Opening and closing music composed by Amir Etemadzadeh, www.amirschoolofmusic.com   Podcast production by Alvarez Audio

 Embrace the changing of season by setting up a Sofreh Mehregan or trying out a new Persian recipe. Mehregan is the celebration of love, friendship, and a good harvest or bounty. Similar to other ancient Persian holidays, there is a dedicated sofreh setting for Mehregan. Typical items on the Mehregan sofreh include a mirror, candles, espand/esfand, wheat, grapes and other fall fruits, ajeel trail mix or nuts in the shell. A holy book or book of poetry, coins, sweets, and sunflowers round out the table setting. The main color of Mehregan is purple with accents of yellow, orange, and red.  Bita and Beata talk about their previous Mehregan events and traditions and their plans for a Northern California event to spread the word and joy of this cultural celebration. In the second half of the episode, the Beats dig into what they have been cooking and eating lately.  Beata's Saffron Braised Lamb Shank recipe.  Share this episode with your friend, cousin, neighbor, or anyone you think would like to learn about Persian food in our modern world!  All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes Sign up for the email newsletter here! Check us out on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube Subscribe+ to the Modern Persian Food podcast on your favorite podcast player, and share this episode with a friend. Opening and closing music composed by Amir Etemadzadeh, www.amirschoolofmusic.com Podcast production by Alvarez Audio