A look at Persian foods for holidaymakers

Iranian food is a highlight of traveling in the country, with considerable variety on offer.

For many Iranians, eating is a social event; and, if you take time over the meal, to savor both the tastes on offer and the company you're sharing it with, you're halfway towards becoming a local.

Teahouses: Traditionally where Iranians would go to socialize and eat, with tea, water pipe, and food.

Kababis: Simple kababis tend to be found around major squares and serve kababs.

Take-away: Fast food is popular and begins (and often ends) with bread-roll sandwiches.

Restaurants: Found across the country, most serve ash-e jo (pearly-barley soup) and salad as standard starters.

At home: Possibly the best food you'll ever taste.

No Persian meal is complete without an abundance of herbs. Every table is usually set with sabzi khordan, a basket of fresh herbs, radishes, and scallions, which are eaten raw and by the handful.  

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