Kalam polo – Persian fragrant pilaf with cabbage & lamb

Kalam polo is a type of delicious Persian rice pilaf originating from Shiraz.  Kalam means cabbage and polo is rice in Farsi hence the title “Kalam Polo” however it often contains meat of some kind. Like many Persian recipes there are many different versions of this dish which are all equally as tasty. Sometimes even…

Lemon & Olive Chicken Tagine

A Tagine is a Moroccan stew that is cooked and served in a “Tagine” which is where it gets its name from. It doesn’t mean you need to have a Tagine to make one – a decent heavy based saucepan will do – however I feel that clay material that a tagine is made from…

Moroccan Orange & Lemon Roast Chicken

I think one of my earliest “pleasureful” memories of eating as a kid is one of eating roast chicken. My mother made the best, (of course) and it was a dish that brought us all together. I even remember her roasting a chicken and wrapping it in foil for long plane journeys so we could…

Persian Love Cake

This cake is one of the most fragrant and elegant that I have ever made and every time I make it again I am always reminded of just how simple yet luxurious and flavourful it is. The ground almonds ensure a very moist finish and it can keep for several days if sealed well in…

Ghalieh Mahi – Persian Herbed Fish

Ghalieh Mahi is a fragrant fish dish that originates from the Caspian Sea region in Iran where fresh fish is abundant. It has an exciting piquant flavour that is typical of many Persian dishes and is served mostly at the beginning of spring. My version is prepared differently to the traditional version (which is a…

Sabzi Kuku – Green Herb Frittata

Omelettes are often a forgotten meal – which is such a shame as they are so easy to make (my 13 year old is becoming an expert) and are really nutritious. A beautiful omelette packed with veg and other yummy morsels makes a perfect breakfast, brunch, quick lunch or even a simple supper – it’s…