Bottom of the Pot: Persian Recipes and Stories

Description

Winner of the IACP 2019 First Book Award presented by The Julia Child Foundation"Like Madhur Jaffrey and Marcella Hazan before her, Naz Deravian will introduce the pleasures and secrets of her mother culture's cooking to a broad audience that has no idea what it's been missing. America will not only fall in love with Persian cooking, it'll fall in love with Naz. ” - Samin Nosrat, author of Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat: The Four Elements of Good CookingNaz Deravian lays out the multi-hued canvas of a Persian meal, with 100+ recipes adapted to an American home kitchen and interspersed with Naz's celebrated essays exploring the idea of home. At eight years old, Naz Deravian left Iran with her family during the height of the 1979 Iranian Revolution and hostage crisis. Over the following ten years, they emigrated from Iran to Rome to Vancouver, carrying with them books of Persian poetry, tiny jars of saffron threads, and always, the knowledge that home can be found in a simple, perfect pot of rice. As they traverse the world in search of a place to land, Naz's family finds comfort and familiarity in pots of hearty aash, steaming pomegranate and walnut chicken, and of course, tahdig: the crispy, golden jewels of rice that form a crust at the bottom of the pot. The best part, saved for last. In Bottom of the Pot, Naz, now an award-winning writer and passionate home cook based in LA, opens up to us a world of fragrant rose petals and tart dried limes, music and poetry, and the bittersweet twin pulls of assimilation and nostalgia. In over 100 recipes, Naz introduces us to Persian food made from a global perspective, at home in an American kitchen. Review: This book is a gem! A journey of flavors and stories. - I bought the "Bottom of the pot” to give to my friend as a gift and as soon I received it I ordered another copy for myself! I was struck by its sheer beauty. The cover design and vibrant colors instantly grab your attention and invite you to explore the rich world of Persian cuisine within its pages. The stunning imagery throughout the book is a visual feast, showcasing not only the dishes themselves but also the cultural and historical significance behind them. This book effortlessly transport you to another realm. The captivating stories accompanying each recipe are a true treasure. The author's eloquent descriptions and vivid storytelling bring to life the traditions, customs, and flavors of Persian cuisine. It is as if you are sitting at a family gathering, listening to tales passed down through generations, while indulging in the most exquisite dishes. The recipes themselves are a testament to the authenticity and soul-nourishing nature of Persian cuisine. Each dish is thoughtfully curated, providing a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, the instructions are clear, concise, and easy to follow. The ingredient lists are accessible, and the book even includes helpful tips and techniques to ensure success. What truly sets "bottom of the pot" apart is the way it stimulates the senses. The descriptions of the aromas, textures, and flavors are so vivid that you can practically taste, smell, and savor each dish as you read. From the fragrant saffron-infused rice to the tender and juicy kababs, the book offers a true culinary journey that will leave you longing for more. In conclusion, "Bottom of a pot” is a work of art that celebrates the rich heritage of Persian cuisine. Whether you are a food enthusiast, a lover of culture, or simply seeking to expand your culinary horizons, this book is a must-have. It not only provides you with authentic and delicious recipes but also immerses you in the captivating world of Persian flavors and traditions. I wholeheartedly recommend this book, and I am certain that it will make a cherished gift for your dear friend or anyone passionate about exploring the wonders of Persian cuisine. Review: Excellent recipes beautiful photographs and stories - To make tahdig....the crispy part of the rice I have several Persian cookery books.....married to an Iranian and living in Iran for a number of years so I have a lot of recipes in my repertoire. The book is beautifully written and you get a sense of Iranian family life. I made the tah dig and it turned out better than it ever had done so happy with my purchase. Lots more recipes to try.