Washoe County Library System

"Growing up in Isfahan, a province in central Iran, Nasim Alikhani was a passionate cook almost from birth, spending the first decades of her life in the kitchen alongside her mother. And so, when she departed after the revolution--with two suitcases, both filled with Iranian pantry staples--it was by recreating the dishes of her childhood that she was able to feel connected to her home. After decades of cooking for friends and classmates, she opened...

"Though the countries in the Persian culinary region are home to diverse religions, cultures, languages, and politics, they are linked by beguiling food traditions and a love for the fresh and the tart. Color and spark come from ripe red pomegranates, golden saffron threads, and the fresh herbs served at every meal. Grilled kebabs, barbari breads, pilafs, and brightly colored condiments are everyday fare, as are rich soup-stews called ash and alluring...