Iran is known for its meaty kebabs from chicken joojoeh to koobideh, mince meat. But what about after? When the samovar is bubbling away releasing hot, steaming chai, tea, think about satisfying your sweet tooth and tuck into one of these desserts.
Bastani Akbar Mashti
The most well-known type of ice cream in Iran, this delightful treat is a mix of saffron vanilla ice cream flavoured with rosewater and pistachios, with chunks of frozen cream. Do as the locals do, and enjoy the ice cream between two thin wafers like a sandwich.
Gaz
Esfahan is the place to try gaz, nougat. The main ingredient of the gaz is made with the angevin plant’s sap. Mixed with egg whites, pistachios and lashings of rosewater, the dessert is soft from the nougat but provides a huge crunch with the pistachio nuts too.
Sohan
Qom is where sohan originates, a crunchy saffron brittle. With eggs, rosewater, sugar, butter, cardamon and wheat sprout and of course, pistachios, this is a tasty dessert to enjoy while you’re in the city. Usually presented in tins, this golden coloured treat is a keen favourite for Iranians.
Shirin Yazdi
Visitors to Yazd will enjoy the confectionary made in this alluring desert city. There’s a great range of desserts available to try. Head to the Amir Chakhmaq Square to find Haj Khalifa Confectionery. Sample pashmak, fluffy candy floss, crispy Iranian baklava and loze nargil, coconut diamonds and plenty more.
Bahmieh
Bahmieh is an unforgettable dessert in Iran. Made up of fried pieces of dough soaked in a rosewater and saffron-infused syrup, you’ll find yourself constantly wiping your chin while tucking in. Crunchy on the top and gooey and soft on the inside, this is a real treat.
Rangiak
The Persian Gulf and the south of Iran is where to find all the glorious date palms – and the best rangiak. The dessert consists of crunchy walnuts found inside sweet, soft dates. On top of all that, you’ll find a delicious mixture of butter, cinnamon, cardamon and toasted flour. Crushed pistachios are also thrown on top of this sweet treat. With a mix of colours, layers and textures, rangiak is a wonderful feast.
Halva
This dessert is often served during religious periods or funerals. The halva found in Iran is different to others served in the region. It’s a dense paste made of wheat flour, sugar, butter, rosewater and saffron. There are slices of pistachios and silvered almonds served on top. Find pretty, delicate designs in halva, which are usually made with the edge of a spoon.
Another Iran 