Bastani | Persian Ice Cream

In Episode #34, co-hosts Bita and Beata dream of rich, decadent, flavorful Persian ice cream known as Bastani in Farsi.

Unique attributes to Bastani

• Saffron and rose water
• Frozen chunks of cream
• Pistachio nuts

Unique attributes of Persian ice cream sandwiches

• Lightly sweetened, thin, crispy wafers
• Where to find ice cream sandwiches
• • International/middle eastern markets
  • DIY make at home Persian ice cream platter sandwiches

Other frozen Persian treats

• Faloodeh - frozen vermicelli noodles laced with lime juice and cherry syrup
• How it's served
• • Solo or "makhloot" meaning mixed in Farsi - mixed with Persian ice cream, half and half
• Carrot Ice Cream Floats - in Farsi Ab Haveej Bastani
• • What is it? - Persian ice cream and carrot juice served in a tall decorative glass

Ideas for Persian frozen treats with Persian flavors and flair

• Vanilla ice cream served with pomegranate molasses, pistachios, and pomegranate arils
• Vanilla ice cream served with date syrup and walnuts

Modern ideas for healthy frozen treats

• "Nice cream" - dairy free soft serve
• • Base of peeled frozen bananas, add frozen fruits
  • For Persian version try it with saffron, rose water and pistachios!

Ask the Beats!

Megan from NYC asks "how do you bloom saffron?"

• Grind dried saffron and dissolve in hot water
• Grinding and storage tips

Podcast production by Alvarez Audio