Introduction
Parsi cuisine originated from the Persian Empire. It refers to the traditional cooking of Parsis from India and Pakistan. The cuisine usually works with rice, lentils, or curry. It dates back to 3,500 years ago. Yet, it’s a gastronomical creation many still appreciate to date. Parsi has been greatly influenced by the Persian and Indian culture. Needlessly to say that Parsi food offers a unique distinction as it utilizes nuts, dry fruits, and shirini. Other commonly used ingredients include ginger, chili, saffron, cinnamon, and turmeric.
Currently, there’s only a handful of Parsis left including the late Freddy Mercury. Because only a few know about it, the cuisine is most patronized in Mumbai rather than in other parts of the world. Likewise, it has been a clique to the working population.
For Parsi cuisine, meat and eggs are a staple together with garlic, ginger, onion, and tomato. It’s a hearty and comforting food. The Holy Trinity is Spicy-Sour-Sweet (Tikhu, Khatu, and Mithu), which is key to most, if not all Parsi dishes. Parsi’s love for eggs, meat, and potatoes is incomparable. This is clearly manifested as meat dishes are mostly combined with potatoes.
There are many Parsi dishes. Dhansak for one, is a very well-represented Parsi dish, and its popularity stands out from the others. There’s also the Parsi omelet, a proud breakfast meal of scrambled eggs topped with virtually any kind of vegetable, herb, and gram flour. Pickles and achars are the best side dishes to a typical Parsi meal. But most importantly, Parsi desserts takes the medal for the home run. Dishes are typically added with rosewater, cardamom, nutmeg, vanilla, almonds, and other nuts. What makes the ultimate difference in this cuisine is its creativity when using spices in juxtaposition to Western food.
There are many Parsi dishes you can try. Some of the best ones are:
- Akuri
Make breakfasts great with akuri. This is made with fried onion, ginger, chili, and black pepper. The eggs are cooked until almost runny. Pair with bread and your favorite warm beverage.
- Marghi Ni Farch or Chicken Farcha
Fried chicken is absolutely everyone’s food. Marghi Ni Farcha or Chicken Farcha is usually served as an appetizer. This is fried chicken – Parsi style. Great for kids and kids at heart. It is crispy outside and tender inside. Whether paired with rice, dals, or curries, it blends superbly fantastic. It is cooked by simmering the chicken on low heat with coriander, celery, and chilis. After this, the chicken is cooled and coated with eggs and breadcrumbs, then fried. Eat with chips, rice, or eggs.
- Parsi Mutton Kebab
Snack time has not been any better Parsi style. Parsi Kebabs are distinct from other dishes as they are either steamed or saffroned. Parsi Mutton Kebabs are usually meal starters and are best paired with rice or naan. In addition, tomatoes are served on the side, and rice is topped with butter or raw egg yolk.
- Dhansak
This simple meat with lentil curry is the bomb of all Paris dishes. This popular dish is created with mutton or goat and combined with lentils and vegetables. Best paired with caramelized white rice. This kind of dish is specially made on Sundays as it takes a very long time to prepare it. However, Dhansak is never served on special festivities such as weddings for the reason that in tradition, dhansak is always served on the fourth day of someone’s death.
- Salli Boti
Mutton curry is an exquisite dish everybody loves. Try the Parsi way with tomatoes, jaggery, onions and vinegar.
- Patra Ni Machhi
This is created by steaming fish wrapped in banana leaves. It is even more enhanced as it is topped with chutney.
- Mutton Cutlets
Try out mutton Parsi style. This appetizer is served to add life to dinners, festivities, and special occasions. It’s very quick and easy to make. It can be prepared a day ahead and kept frozen.
- Saas Ni Macchi
A typical wedding dish, this is a fish dish cooked in white, savory sauce. It’s very popular in Parsi homes usually paired with Khichri or Basmati rice.
- Sali Par Eedu
If you’re a fan of hashbrowns, you’d probably get crazy with this. Sali Par Eedu is served as fried eggs with potato straws. Simply filling and delicious!
- Parsi Sev
Since Parsis are known for delectably scrumptious desserts, parsi sev doesn’t fall short of anyone’s expectations. Cooked with dried fruits, nuts and jaggery, it’s a great way to finish a meal.
- Parsi Sali Keema
Minced meat cooked in spicy tomatoes and onion gravy. The flavor is even more appetizing when served with julienne potatoes.
- Lagan Nu Custard
Custards are special in Parsi cuisine. Lagan Nu Custard can always be seen served in wedding ceremonies.
- Dal Ni Pori
When looking for a snack during tea time, you can try out this delectable pastry. It is stuffed with lentil making it a great healthy afternoon go-to finger food.
- Vasanu
Vasanu is another healthy snack alternative. It is made of ghee together with various dry fruits, dry ginger, lotus stem, and herbs.
- Malido
A sweet pudding made from wholewheat flour, malido is served mostly at religious ceremonies. It’s very nutritious that mothers love it for their kids, and themselves as pregnant and post-delivery sustenance.
Conclusion
The Parsi cuisine still remains in the corner hoping to get discovered. Most Indian chefs took the responsibility of sharing it with the world. Artisanal favors have been given the chance to be experienced by more people.