Cooking Through the Chaos: What’s Filling Our Kitchens Right Now
Modern Persian Food
In today’s episode, we’re taking a step back from the noise of the world and reconnecting in the most familiar way we know how—through food. With everything feeling a bit heavy and unpredictable lately, we wanted to keep things simple and grounding. This episode is a casual kitchen catch-up, where we share what’s been cooking in our homes, the flavors we’re leaning into, and how food continues to anchor us through it all. Beata shares how ground beef has been on repeat in her kitchen lately—showing up in a variety of family-friendly meals and comforting favorites. She talks about...
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Honoring Nowruz
Modern Persian Food
As we welcome Nowruz this year, we do so with a heavy heart. And yet, even in difficult times, we feel called to honor and commemorate this ancient, beautiful tradition. Nowruz reminds us that light returns, spring follows winter, and renewal is always possible. For Episode 186 of the Modern Persian Food podcast, we are revisiting one of our most beloved and foundational episodes — Episode 126 — where we walk through every part of the Persian New Year season and its rich cultural meaning. Nowruz (also spelled Norooz) literally translates to “new day.” Celebrated for over 3,000 years...
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Peace, Love, Honey & Figs
Modern Persian Food
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...
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Trends in Persian Food - AI Kitchen Inspiration + Resistant Starches
Modern Persian Food
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...
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Modern Yalda Bites
Modern Persian Food
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...
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Jeweled Persian Rice – A Celebration of Color and Flavor
Modern Persian Food
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...
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Doogh: Persia’s Tangy Yogurt Drink You’ll Love or Hate
Modern Persian Food
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...
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Summer Plates, Persian Roots
Modern Persian Food
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: ...
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Sizzling Summer: How to Grill Persian Food Like a Pro
Modern Persian Food
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...
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Sweet Traditions: Exploring Persian Desserts
Modern Persian Food
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...
info_outlineEmbrace 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!
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Opening and closing music composed by Amir Etemadzadeh, www.amirschoolofmusic.com
Podcast production by Alvarez Audio