Nowruz Recipes: A Taste of Spring and Renewal

Nowruz, the Persian New Year, is all about new beginnings, fresh flavors, and a beautifully set Haft-Seen table. Cooking for Nowruz is more than just making food—it’s about tradition, family, and welcoming a year full of blessings. Here are a few simple yet classic recipes that anyone can make to celebrate the occasion.

1. Sabzi Polo (Herbed Rice with Fish)

Fresh herbs, fluffy rice, and crispy fish—this dish is a Nowruz must-have!

Ingredients

• 2 cups basmati rice
• 1 bunch parsley, chopped
• 1 bunch cilantro, chopped
• 1 bunch dill, chopped
• 1 bunch green onions, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon saffron (bloomed in 2 tablespoons hot water)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 fillets of white fish (sea bass or tilapia)
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons flour (for coating the fish)
• 3 tablespoons oil (for frying the fish)

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice a few times until the water runs clear. Soak for 30 minutes in salted water.
2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, drain the soaked rice, and cook it in boiling water for about 7-8 minutes until slightly soft. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large pot, melt the butter and layer in the rice, alternating with chopped herbs. Pour the bloomed saffron over the top. Cover and let steam on low heat for 30-40 minutes.
4. For the fish, season with salt, pepper, and turmeric, then lightly coat with flour. Heat oil in a pan and fry until golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve the herbed rice with the crispy fish and enjoy!

2. Kuku Sabzi (Herb & Egg Frittata)

A super green, super delicious dish packed with herbs and a hint of crunch!

Ingredients

• 1 bunch parsley, chopped
• 1 bunch cilantro, chopped
• 1 bunch dill, chopped
• 1 bunch chives or green onions, chopped
• 5 eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 2 tablespoons flour (optional, for a firmer texture)
• 2 tablespoons walnuts (optional, for crunch)
• 2 tablespoons barberries (optional, for a sweet contrast)
• 3 tablespoons oil (for frying)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, baking powder, salt, pepper, and turmeric.
2. Stir in all the chopped herbs. Add flour if you prefer a denser texture.
3. Heat oil in a non-stick pan and pour in the mixture. Cook on low heat for 8-10 minutes until set, then carefully flip and cook for another 5 minutes.
4. Slice into wedges and serve warm. This pairs beautifully with yogurt and fresh bread!

3. Shirini Napeloni (Persian Napoleon Pastry)

A light and flaky dessert perfect for Nowruz gatherings!

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry
• 2 cups milk
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 egg yolks
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (whipped)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

1. Roll out the puff pastry and bake at 200°C (400°F) until golden and crispy. Let cool and slice into squares.
2. In a saucepan, whisk together milk, cornstarch, sugar, vanilla, and egg yolks over medium heat until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. Fold in whipped cream for a light texture.
4. Layer the pastry squares with the cream mixture, stacking them to create layers.
5. Dust with powdered sugar and serve chilled!

These dishes bring the true flavors of Nowruz to your table, filling your home with warmth, joy, and delicious aromas. Whether you’re celebrating with family or trying these recipes for the first time, each bite is a reminder of renewal, hope, and the start of a beautiful year ahead.

This article was previously published on UAE Moments. To see the original article, click here