Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Qom, Iran
1. Aab Garm-e Khooni (Warm Blood Soup)
A traditional dish made from sheep's blood, seasoned with onions, salt, and pepper. It's served warm in a bread bowl.
- Unique Ingredient: Uses fresh sheep's blood as its primary ingredient.
- Warming Effect: Served warm to combat the cold weather in Qom.
- Local Tradition: A centuries-old dish deeply rooted in local culture.
2. Khoresht-e Gheimeh (Split Pea Stew)
A thick stew made with lamb, split peas, and aromatic spices like saffron and turmeric.
- Spice Blend: Distinctive flavor from the blend of saffron and turmeric.
- Meat Content: Uses tender lamb pieces as its main meat ingredient.
- Community Meal: Typically served during family gatherings and special occasions.
3. Adas Polo Ba Mahicheh (Lentil Rice with Nuts)
A flavorful rice dish prepared with lentils, barberries, and a variety of nuts.
- Sweet-Savory Balance: Balances the sweetness of barberries and savory flavors from the rice and lentils.
- Nutty Texture: Enhances the dish with a crunchy texture from the various nuts.
- Healthy Option: Made with lentils and nuts, providing a nutritious meal choice.
4. Zaghoosht-e Qom (Qom Style Lamb Stew)
A hearty lamb stew cooked with potatoes, tomatoes, and special Qom spices.
- Local Spices: Includes unique Qom spices that give it a distinctive flavor.
- Slow-Cooked: Cooked slowly to allow the flavors to fully develop and meld together.
- Comfort Food: A popular comfort food in Qom, enjoyed during colder months.
5. Faludeh Khamir (Persian Yogurt Soup)
A refreshing yogurt-based soup made with rosewater, vermicelli noodles, and cornstarch.
- Cooling Effect: Provides a cooling sensation on a hot day.
- Unique Ingredients: Includes rosewater, a distinct flavor that sets it apart.
- Quick Preparation: Can be prepared quickly compared to other Persian dishes.
6. Kaleh Pache (Persian Pudding)
A sweet pudding made with rice flour, sugar, and rosewater.
- Sweet Delight: Satisfies a craving for something sweet after a meal.
- Flavorful Ingredients: Infused with the delicate flavor of rosewater and aromatic spices.
- Texture Variation: Offers a contrasting texture between the creamy pudding and crunchy nuts on top.
7. Gol-e Zemestan (Iranian Ice Cream)
Traditional Persian ice cream made with rosewater and saffron.
- Flavorful Additions: Flavored with rosewater and saffron for an exotic taste.
- Traditional Process: Made using traditional methods passed down through generations.
- Cooling Treat: A refreshing treat to beat the heat in Qom.
8. Beryani (Beriani)
A dish made with marinated lamb or chicken, served on top of saffron-infused rice.
- Delicate Spices: Infused with aromatic spices like saffron and cardamom.
- Meat Varieties: Available in both lamb and chicken varieties.
- Special Occasion Dish: Typically served on special occasions like weddings or holidays.
9. Sholeh Zard (Saffron Rice Pudding)
A creamy rice pudding prepared with saffron, rosewater, and almond slivers.
- Exotic Flavor: Infused with the exotic flavors of saffron and rosewater.
- Nutty Texture: Enhances the dish with a crunchy texture from the almond slivers.
- Rich and Creamy: Offers a rich, creamy consistency that is satisfying.
10. Mirza Ghassemi (Fried Eggplant Dish)
A dish made with fried eggplant, garlic, and tomatoes.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with just a few simple ingredients: eggplant, garlic, and tomatoes.
- Versatile Dish: Can be served as a main dish or side dish.
- Flavorful Combo: The combination of eggplant, garlic, and tomatoes creates a unique flavor profile.
11. Kebab-e Koobideh (Persian Grilled Skewer)
Grilled minced meat skewers seasoned with garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Flavorful Meat: Seasoned with garlic, salt, and pepper for a rich flavor.
- Street Food Option: Often found on the streets of Qom's bustling markets.
- Popular Choice: A popular dish among locals and tourists alike.
12. Torshi (Pickled Vegetables)
Preserved vegetables such as carrots, cucumbers, and eggplants in a tangy pickle.
- Tangy Snack: Provides a refreshing, tangy snack to complement other dishes.
- Long Shelf Life: Has a long shelf life, making it an ideal dish for travelers.
- Versatile Condiment: Can be used as a condiment or enjoyed on its own.
13. Adas Polo Ba Morgh (Lentil Rice with Chicken)
A flavorful rice dish prepared with lentils, chicken, and aromatic spices.
- Protein-Rich Dish: Contains protein from the tender chicken pieces.
- Flavorful Rice: Infused with aromatic spices and the taste of tender chicken.
- Healthy Option: Offers a balanced meal with both protein and grains.
14. Jujeh Kabob (Chicken Skewers)
Grilled chicken skewers marinated in a mixture of yogurt, garlic, and spices.
- Tender Chicken: Marinated to ensure tender, juicy chicken pieces.
- Spiced Marinade: Infused with a flavorful yogurt and spice marinade.
- Street Food Option: Found on the streets of Qom, making it easy to find.
15. Nan-e Sangak (Persian Bread)
A flatbread made in a stone oven, with a crispy crust and chewy interior.
- Versatile Accompaniment: Accompanies various dishes, acting as both a utensil and side dish.
- Crispy Texture: Features a crispy crust for contrast against the chewy interior.
- Quick Preparation: Can be prepared quickly and easily, making it ideal for meals on-the-go.