In Episode #123, co-hosts Bita and Beata chat about all things dates! Persian dates that you eat, dates in recipes both traditional and modern, and dates that you go on. They also share experience and stories around Persian matchmaking and getting set up on dates Iranian style. Persian dates are dates in dried form which taste sweet and buttery/caramel-y. Hot dates Heat in microwave with almond butter for a healthy snack Wrap in bacon or prosciutto as an appetizer Recipes with dates Pitted and f...
Feb 08, 2023•14 min•Season 1Ep. 123
Bita and Beata are joined by guest Rachel Kashef from Little Persian Learning to share insights and inspirational resources on how to blend Persian culture into today's modern families. Rachel is a former school teacher and has founded a learning kit and greeting card company in response to what she felt was lacking in today's cross-cultural communities. The conversation rounds out with the role of food and the incredible flavors of Persian cuisine. Listen, get inspired, and try your hand at a P...
Feb 01, 2023•23 min•Season 1Ep. 122
The Beats uncover the top 5 things to grab next time you find yourself in a Persian or middle eastern market! Whether you have a market near you or you stumble into one on an adventure, Bita and Beata share their favorite things to shop for that are unique and specialty items. Don't forget to submit a question or comment for us to address live on the show. Simply shoot us an email: hello@modernpersianfood.com or leave us an audio message on Instagram! @modernpersianfood All Modern Persian Food p...
Jan 25, 2023•15 min•Season 1Ep. 121
In today's episode, Beata and Bita dive into the classic Persian layered rice dish Adas Polo. The medley of lentils, onions, raisins and dates along with the steamed rice provides a nutritious, comforting, and delicious wintry wintery dish. Learn some recipe shortcuts including some modern twists on this staple Persian dish. Are you ready for an umami, savory dish with hints of sweet and cinnamony notes? Which version will you try? Stay tuned to the end to hear strategies for warming up Persian ...
Jan 18, 2023•18 min•Season 1Ep. 120
In today's episode, Beata and Bita take a deep dive into a single ingredient, oranges, and the many forms they are used in Persian cuisine - orange as a fresh fruit, the rind or peel of oranges, and orange blossom water. Orange you glad you listen to this episode? Ask the Beats! Amy from Veggies Save the Day wants to know, what gluten-free and vegan options are there in Persian restaurants? All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes Co-host Beata Nazem Kelley blog: BeatsE...
Jan 11, 2023•16 min•Season 1Ep. 119
Beata and Bita, collectively known as the Beats, are honored to be joined by the culinary expert, Andy Baraghani! Tune it to learn about how growing up in a Persian American family influenced and shaped Andy's life in food. Learn how to make a basic Persian "torshi" and have some adventures in pickling. Find out the best ways to eat sour, tart flavors in Persian cuisine, and finally, Support Andy by grabbing a copy of his new cookbook, "The Cook You Want to Be" Andy's Instagram handle: @andybara...
Jan 04, 2023•32 min•Season 1Ep. 118
In this episode we are gifting you with 5, fun Persian-inspired cocktails! With our unique ideas you'll have festive cocktails twists to ring in the new year. Pomegranate fizz Sekanjabin mojito Watermelon slushie Gohl Getter Cardamom Hot Toddy Disclaimer: all of these drinks can easily be made without any alcohol as mocktails. If you choose to drink, be sure to drink responsibly and have a designated driver. Cheers to a healthy, hopeful new year ahead, beh salamaty! All Modern Persian Food podca...
Dec 28, 2022•13 min•Season 1Ep. 117
How about a fun and unique twist to holiday baking? Bita and Beata share recipes, inspiration and short-cuts to create delicious and easy Persian-ish desserts to add new flavors to your holiday treats. All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes Co-host Beata Nazem Kelley blog: BeatsEats – Persian Girl Desperately Addicted to Food! Co-host Bita Arabian blog: Oven Hug - Healthy Persian Recipes | Modern Persian Recipes Recipes references: Bita's digital download cookbook, Mo...
Dec 21, 2022•20 min•Season 1Ep. 116
Learn more about the #CookForIran global movement of dinners, restaurants, and chefs. Beata and Bita are joined by Layla Yarjani in an insightful conversation about an opportunity to help spread awareness about the situation and people in current events in Iran. For more information check the website: Cook for Iran All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes Co-host Beata Nazem Kelley blog: BeatsEats – Persian Girl Desperately Addicted to Food! Co-host Bita Arabian blog: O...
Dec 14, 2022•19 min•Season 1Ep. 115
Beata and Bita are eager to share about Yalda (also known as Shab-e Yalda), the longest darkest night of the year, which happens on the Winter Solstice. They want to inspire you to celebrate Yalda, in whatever form you can, this year. Listen to get ideas of incorporating elements from this ancient festival to your holiday gatherings, end-of-year events, or on the actual night of Yalda. In the spirit of Yalda, this episode includes three special family music and poetry clips to get listeners in t...
Dec 07, 2022•25 min•Season 1Ep. 114
What makes a Persian steakhouse different than a regular Persian restaurant or chelo kababi. Join Bita, Beata and Fera Hashemi as they explore the nuances of a modern approach to eating out Persian style with a twist. It's all in the in-house aged meats, the quality of the meat, the presentation and special Persian hospitality. The chef is Fera's husband who is in the kitchen making his version of fesenjoon on meatballs and eggplant dip molded into elegant designs. Join us in a culinary feast of...
Nov 30, 2022•16 min•Season 1Ep. 113
Have you had Haleem, known by some as Persian porridge? If not, definitely give this episode a listen. Bita & Beata break down traditional and modern recipes of a classic, rich and delicious Persian food made with primarily wheat and meat. Much more delicious than it sounds, it's creamy and luscious and super comforting. Also spelled Halim. Don't have time to boil, strain, simmer, and mash? Not to worry, Beata has a quick and easy solution using oats and store-bought chicken. Bita joon share...
Nov 23, 2022•19 min
What does it mean to have a Persian Thanksgiving? Join Beata & Bita in a fun and festive conversation sharing how each co-host feels thankful and blessed this Thanksgiving season. The co-hosts share creative strategies for bringing in Persian culture and cuisine and blending it into western Thanksgiving meals. As a bonus, learn how to cook a turkey! Tackle the fear, if the Beats can do it, you can do it too. What is Ask the Beats? Dial in by leaving an audio message through Instagram messagi...
Nov 16, 2022•22 min•Season 1Ep. 111
Join us, Bita and Beata, for a candid conversation as we share our thoughts and feelings around the uprising revolution in Iran and the worldwide demonstrations supporting women and human rights. We reflect about growing up in the U.S. as an Iranian American, what that was like, and how finding confidence in self-identity helped shape who we are and what we do now. We've been inspired by a recent Roqe podcast episode which left us hopeful for change and a sense of Iranian pride. The "Ask the Bea...
Nov 09, 2022•29 min•Season 1Ep. 110
Have you tried Persimmons? It's one of the Beats most beloved fruit. Who do you think loves it more? Join us as we explore the two types of persimmons including fun ways to gobble them up. Now for a listener quiz: Which are you going to try first? Hachiya or Fuyu? Time for a quiz - which is good for baking? Which version can be eaten like an apple without further ripening? Will you be adding them to your fall natural table decor? This week's "Ask the Beats" comes from Bita's daughter, Leyla joon...
Nov 02, 2022•18 min•Season 1Ep. 109
Ready to get a sugar rush? Join the Beats as they break down 5 original, Persian-inspired candies and treats and how to make them! Unique twist on Halloween Candy and Treats Sohan | Persian Brittle (made in a modern way with Saltine crackers, would work in mini version with oyster crackers too) Chocolate-covered Pretzel rods garnished with pistachios and zereshk (also try with dried, candied orange peel) Toot | Marzipan (try shaping as candy corn or spooky finger nails) Ajeel in cute halloween t...
Oct 26, 2022•24 min•Season 1Ep. 108
The Beats are joined by special guest, Candice Walker of the Proportional Plate. Together they break down and define the ancient Persian philosophy of Warm vs Cold Foods (in the Persian language "garm" vs "sard" foods). Through Candice's world travels she found commonality and crossovers with Ayurveda and ancient Chinese herbal medicine. Listen to this intriguing conversation and learn how our ancestors' warnings and advice, the words of our mothers, grandmother, and great-grandmothers were wise...
Oct 19, 2022•21 min•Season 1Ep. 107
In light of the Zan, Zendegi, Azadi movement (Women, Life, Freedom) we are not broadcasting new content this week. Instead, we are "re-beating" an earlier episode about Khoresh (original episode #8). Co-hosts Bita and Beata talk about their favorite Persian stews which are served with rice - what's in them, how to prepare them, short-cuts (Beats Cheats) and favorites. What is Persian Stew (khoresh or khoresht) and is it really a stew? More of a hearty sauce made with delicious braised meat, vege...
Oct 12, 2022•21 min•Season 1Ep. 106
One Beat loves rose, the other is not so sure but willing to try. Which camp will you join? The fragrance of rose can be associated with mood lifting qualities. It also adds classic flavors to desserts, drinks, and even savory foods. Bring more joy to your life and add some culinary rose to your cooking! This week's "Ask the Beats" uncovers Beata and Bita's favorite non-Persian dishes to make during the week. Episodes referenced: Episode 71: The Medicinal Properties of Persian Spices with Dr. Ma...
Oct 05, 2022•21 min•Season 1Ep. 105
Upgrade your party dip with creamy and nutritious Persian Borani (also spelled Boorani). It's a cooked vegetable and yogurt dish that can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or light meal. Beata and Bita share the most common versions of Borani, plus their go-to recipes so you can make some tonight! This week's "Ask the Beats" covers favorite ingredients to cook with. Episodes referenced: Episode 5: Yogurt Episode 4: Onions All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes Co-...
Sep 28, 2022•17 min•Season 1Ep. 104
It's almost fall and the Beats have apples top of mind! Bita & Beata explore the role of apples in Persian culture, some of the symbolic meanings behind the representation of apples in traditional sofrehs (table settings) and occasions, and of course how apples are used in Persian cuisine. This week's "Ask the Beats" takes a peek into what Bita & Beata make for dinner that's not actually Persian! Episodes referenced: Episode 51: Mehregan All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be fo...
Sep 21, 2022•16 min•Season 1Ep. 103
Special guest actor/comedian Payam Banifaz joins Beata and Bita on the podcast to talk about Persian food, favorite LA restaurants, and building community within the Iranian-American community. Payam confides he was a picky eater growing up, and shares the dish he dislikes the most! Find Payam on Instagram at: Payam Banifaz (@pbani) Restaurants Referenced: Sadaf in Encino Raffi's in Glendale All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes Co-host Beata Nazem Kelley blog: Beats...
Sep 14, 2022•29 min•Season 1Ep. 102
Beata and Bita have fun talking about beets in this week's podcast episode. They uncover their favorite beet recipes, cooking techniques, and nostalgia with beet street food in Iran. The "Ask the Beats" dives into the question: "When did you first start cooking Persian Food?" Episodes referenced: Episode 55: Persian Nuts Episode 32: Maz Jobrani on Persian Food All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes Co-host Beata Nazem Kelley blog: BeatsEats – Persian Girl Desperately ...
Sep 07, 2022•18 min•Season 1Ep. 101
Bita and Beata celebrate the 100th episode of the Modern Persian Food podcast by sharing their top most memorable moments since first launching the show in 2020. The co-hosts give a sneak peek of a stellar guest line up, modern recipes to come, as well as offer new ways to listen and learn including YouTube and live broadcast shows for more listener engagement. Stay tuned for 100 more! Episodes referenced: Episode 71: Medicinal Properties of Persian Spices with Dr. Mahtab Jafari Episode 66: Pers...
Aug 31, 2022•32 min•Season 1Ep. 100
Bita and Beata get energized drinking and talking about coffee, coffee houses, and types of coffee in Persian culture and cuisine. Learn how to make strong Turkish coffee or easy stir in instant "nescafe" coffee and get your boost for the day! The duo reminisce about getting their "faal" read from coffee grounds and what their daily coffee rituals are. The "Ask the Beats" is from Elika from Organizing with Elika asking about easy go-to Persian dinner recipes. All Modern Persian Food podcast epis...
Aug 24, 2022•27 min•Season 1Ep. 99
Bita and Beata are chatting about suitcases full of soghati! Giving and receiving soghati souvenir gifts are part of Persian culture and often include golden saffron, savory nuts, delicate sweets, and other Persian specialties and extravagances! Hear about their stories growing up and what this cultural gift giving tradition looks like. The "Ask the Beats" this week is about popular Persian dishes and was asked by Beata's daughter. All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episod...
Aug 17, 2022•22 min•Season 1Ep. 98
Get ready to get hungry! Beata and Bita are covering what and how to order in a Persian restaurant. From delicious appetizers, savory kababs, and khoresh stews to mixed rice dishes and addictive desserts, the Beats help you navigate the extensive menu at your local Persian eatery. This week's Ask the Beats is from a listener in Iran about trying new ingredients. All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes Co-host Beata Nazem Kelley blog: BeatsEats – Persian Girl Desperatel...
Aug 10, 2022•26 min•Season 1Ep. 97
The Beats are breaking down a simple, classic Persian salad recipe, Salad Shirazi! Bright, light, crispy, crunchy! The salad staples include tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions in a simple citrus dressing. Play with the ratios to suit your taste! All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes Co-host Beata Nazem Kelley blog: BeatsEats – Persian Girl Desperately Addicted to Food! Co-host Bita Arabian blog: Oven Hug - Healthy Persian Recipes | Modern Persian Recipes Bita's recipe f...
Aug 03, 2022•17 min•Season 1Ep. 96
Oh anar, Persian for pomegranate, how we love you! A classic, iconic Persian fruit that is both beautiful and sensual, prevalent in dishes both sweet and savory. We hope you enjoy listening to the last of our summer Re-Beats series! Original episode: Episode 53: Pomegranates | Anar Additional episodes referenced: Episode 16: Khoresh Fesenjoon | Persian Pomegranate and Walnut Stew Episode 31: Cultural Spotlight: Caspian Sea Regional Foods with Special Guest The Caspian Chef Subscribe+ to the Mode...
Jul 27, 2022•13 min•Season 1Ep. 95
Breaking bread together is so lovely. That's why the Beats are happy to bring back Persian Breads, the 3rd in a 4 part series of repeating or as they like to call it, the "Summer Re-Beats". Be sure to share your favorite "loghmeh" or perfect bite of something wrapped in bread with us! Original episode: Episode 49: Persian Breads Subscribe+ to the Modern Persian Food podcast on your favorite podcast player, and tell a friend or write a review! All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found...
Jul 20, 2022•14 min•Season 1Ep. 94
