The Rich Flavors and History of Persian Cuisine

 The flavors of the Middle East are rich in history and tradition. Foods that have been daily staples in this part of the world have been gaining in popularity in other parts of the world over the last decade or so.
Persian cuisine has long been rich in vegetables, fruits and herbs that have recently been gaining appreciation for their health benefits. For example, onions and garlic, pomegranate, and sabzijat (various green herbs) foods that have been regular ingredients in many Persian dishes for generations are now widely being appreciated for their nutritional value.
If you walk into most Persian homes, both overseas and here in the states, you’re likely to see a bowl of fresh fruit on most tables. Fresh dates and figs, many citrus fruits, apricots, peaches, sweet and sour cherries, apples, plums, pears, pomegranates and many varieties of grapes and melons are some you are likely to see. When fresh fruits are not available, a large variety of excellent dried fruits such as dates, figs, apricots and peaches are used instead.
Flavorful dishes of vegetables and herbs are standard sides to most meals. Persians are also fond of fresh green salads dressed with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, salt and pepper and garlic. Tomatoes, cucumbers and scallions also often accompany a meal.
Getting hungry? No need to travel overseas. Persia Lounge & Restaurant in Newhall brings the orient to you.
Along with exotic entrees and sizzling kabobs, you’ll find an array of fresh vegetables and appetizers on their lunch buffet, Monday to Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
On any given day, the lunch buffet at Persia offers a variety of salads, yogurt dips, and their famous hummus. Lavash, a Persian flatbread, is served with butter as you arrive. At dinnertime, most entrees are accompanied by your choice of a special recipe chicken soup or salad.
If you’d like to try something different, Persia Lounge & Restaurant offers dolma, prepared by lightly parboiling the fresh leaves in salted water, then stuffing them with a mixture of grape leaves seasoned rice mixture and steamed. They are quite tasty by themselves or served with a yogurt and cucumber dip.
This is just the beginning! Persia Lounge & Restaurant tempts us with many wonderful dishes; from Lula kabobs, to quail, to lamb shank and more. Dine-in or take out. Persia is even available to cater your next party. Persia also serves Hookah on the outdoor patio.
Your table is waiting, at Persia Lounge & Restaurant. For information, please call 661-259-4100 and visit www.persia-lounge.com.