Podcast
Modern Persian Food
Hosted by Bita Arabian & Beata Nazem Kelley · EN
Podcast co-hosts and food bloggers Bita Arabian and Beata Nazem Kelley share the rich flavors and fresh ingredients of Persian Cooking and how to incorporate them into today's modern lifestyles. The duo introduces the flavors, tastes, and techniques they use, and also their cultural stories and perspective growing up in the US in Persian families.
16episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Doogh: Persia's Tangy Yogurt Drink You'll Love or Hate
Oct 100:23:23Tap to summarizeDo 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 for the first time, this episode will give you a new appreciation for this iconic Persian yogurt beverage. ✨ What you'll learn: What is Doogh? Why some people love it and others find it "too tangy" How to pair Doogh with Persian meals Tips for making your own authentic Doogh recipe at home Tune in, sip along, and discover why Doogh continues to spark debate at Persian tables around the world! Episodes referenced: Episode 36: Persian Drinks | Nooshidani Episode 65: Persian Cocktails Episode 9: Persian Tea | Chai Episode 5: Yogurt Episode 107: Demystify the Ancient Persian Medicine of Hot and Cold Food with Candice Walker of the Proportional Plate All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes Sign up for the email newsletter here! Check us out on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube Subscribe+ to the Modern Persian Food podcast on your favorite podcast player, and share this episode with a friend. Opening and closing music composed by Amir Etemadzadeh, www.amirschoolofmusic.com Podcast production by Alvarez Audio
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Summer Plates, Persian Roots
Sep 300:30:19Tap to summarizePodcast 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: Experimenting with lighter, healthier variations of tahchin by mixing in extra grains Celebrating her brand-new certification as a pediatric health coach and how it influences her cooking approach While this summer began on a somber note in the world, both hosts reflect on how food can be a bridge—for healing, culture, and togetherness. Through the flavors of Persian tradition, they hope to offer listeners a sense of comfort, joy, and inspiration. ✨ Tune in to hear their stories, recipes, and reflections on how cooking can nourish both body and soul. Past episodes and recipe references: Episode 31: Cultural Spotlight: Caspian Sea Regional Foods with Special Guest The Caspian Chef Episode 71: Medicinal Properties of Persian Spices with Dr. Mahtab Jafari Episode 133: Kashk with Omid The Caspian Chef Episode 173: Celebrating Yalda: A Persian Winter Solstice Tradition Persian Salad Olivieh – BeatsEats Maast o Khiar (Persian Cucumber and Yogurt Dip) – BeatsEats Persian Jeweled Tahchin – BeatsEats All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes Sign up for the email newsletter here! Check us out on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube Subscribe+ to the Modern Persian Food podcast on your favorite podcast player, and share this episode with a friend. Opening and closing music composed by Amir Etemadzadeh, www.amirschoolofmusic.com Podcast production by Alvarez Audio
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Sizzling Summer: How to Grill Persian Food Like a Pro
Jun 4, 202500:22:25Tap to summarizeGet 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 and saffron chicken to grilled tomatoes and eggplants, you'll learn how to bring the flavors of a Persian summer to your table — wherever you are. In This Episode, We Cover: The different types of grills you can use (charcoal, gas, electric, stovetop grill pans) Must-have tools for grilling Persian-style Our go-to marinades and seasoning techniques for Persian grilling What to serve alongside your Persian BBQ spread Our favorite vegetarian-friendly grilled sides And some of our favorite memories! Links and Resources: Episode 141: Discover the Tantalizing Taste of Balal: Persian Grilled CornEpisode 86: Persian Episode 140: Savoring Summer: Joojeh Kabob for Your Summer Cookouts Episode 86: Persian Kababs Episode 68: Smoky Persian Flavors Episode 4: Onions All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes Sign up for the email newsletter here! Check us out on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube Subscribe+ to the Modern Persian Food podcast on your favorite podcast player, and share this episode with a friend. Opening and closing music composed by Amir Etemadzadeh, www.amirschoolofmusic.com Podcast production by Alvarez Audio
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Sweet Traditions: Exploring Persian Desserts
May 7, 202500:22:58Tap to summarizeIn 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 time, this episode promises a sweet escape into a world rich with history, flavor, and craftsmanship. Thank you for joining us — and don't forget to leave a review or share this episode if you loved today's taste of tradition! Episodes referenced: Episode 74: Persian Cookies Recipes referenced: Persian Tea Cookies with Aunt Pari Joon – BeatsEats All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes Sign up for the email newsletter here! Check us out on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube Subscribe+ to the Modern Persian Food podcast on your favorite podcast player, and share this episode with a friend. Opening and closing music composed by Amir Etemadzadeh, www.amirschoolofmusic.com Podcast production by Alvarez Audio
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Healthy Persian Cooking Techniques
Jan 10, 2024Tap to summarizeWelcome to the first episode of 2024, where we're embracing a fresh start with a healthy twist on Persian cuisine. Listen in as we, Bita and Bita, share our New Year's resolutions, including being more present with our loved ones and pursuing exciting professional opportunities. We're also thrilled about our new monthly podcast format, which allows us to create even richer content for our listeners. If you have a passion for Persian culture, join us on this journey—we're on the lookout for an intern to help bring our vision to life. This episode is a celebration of Persian food's nutritious heart, especially post-holiday when many of us are looking to detox and achieve our health goals. Discover how dishes like khoresh and the traditional herb frittata kookoo (kuku) sabzi can be made healthier with simple cooking tweaks. We also explore the power of Persian spices, like saffron and turmeric, and how they can be integrated into our daily routines for their incredible health benefits. Plus, we answer a listener's question about these spices, sharing personal insights and unique ways to incorporate them into our cooking. Tune in for a wholesome start to your year with us. All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes Sign up for the email newsletter here! Check us out on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube Subscribe+ to the Modern Persian Food podcast on your favorite podcast player, and share this episode with a friend. Opening and closing music composed by Amir Etemadzadeh, www.amirschoolofmusic.com Podcast production by Alvarez Audio
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Aromatic Spices
Oct 14, 2020Tap to summarizeWelcome to the second episode of the Modern Persian Food podcast! Co-hosts Bita and Beata provide some insight into one of the foundations of Persian cuisine - aromatic spices! Turmeric and Saffron are the most common spices associated with Persian cuisine What they are, forms and versions, how to use them, and what foods they enhance The best way to store spices How spices are sold in Iran and Turkey What's included in an advieh spice mix Dry edible rose petals | Gohleh Mohamadi Cardamom (in teas) and Orange blossom uses Oatmeal and Haleem porridge Cinnamon versatility and recipes Sumac's traditional and modern uses Dried mint as garnish and key ingredient in appetizers and main dishes How to use dried Limoo Amani Preferences and foods with fenugreek "Ask the Beats" - Question: What kind of rice do you use to make perfect Persian rice? Email hello@modernpersianfood.com to be featured in a future episode Recipe links from this episode: Rice: Bita's recipe How to Prepare Persian Rice in a Rice Cooker (with bit on saffron) Spice mix: Bita's recipe: Advieh mix recipe Cinnamon Oatmeal: Bita's Healthy Creamy Oatmeal recipe with Cinnamon Ash Reshteh: Bita's recipe: Ash Reshteh recipe Beata's recipe: Asheh Reshteh – Persian Noodle Soup Koo Koo Sabzi Bita's recipe: Koo Koo sabzi recipe Beata's recipe: Persian Frittata Koo Koo Sabzi Persian appetizers with mint: Bita's recipe: Persian Yogurt and Cucumber Dip with Mint | Mast o Khiar Bita's recipe: Eggplant Borani recipe Beata's recipe: Persian Salads: Maast-o-Khiar with Shallot and Salad Shirazi Khoresh Karafs Bita's recipe: Persian Celery and Artichoke Stew (vegetarian version) Beata's recipe: Khoreshteh Karafs Celery and Herb Beef Stew Khoresh Ghemeh Bita's recipe: Persian Yellow Split Pea Stew Lubia Polo Bita's recipe: Loobia Polo | Persian Rice with Green Beans Beata's recipe: Lubia Polo for the Persian New Year Sezdeh be Dar Picnic Podcast production by Alvarez Audio
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