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…

Kooftah Berenji – Persian Lamb & Rice Meatballs

These succulent spiced lamb meatballs are quite unusual as they are combined with split peas (chana dhal) and rice and then simmered lightly in a rich sweet/sour broth which is utterly heavenly. The word Kofta, or Kufta or Kooftah comes from a Persian word meaning “to pound” or “to grind”, and is referring (obviously) to the…

Lentil & Herb Stuffed Vine Leaves (Dolmas)

Dolmas epitomise everything I love about Mediterranean food. Simple peasant-style fare that is often made using left-overs from other dishes in order not to waste, but doesn’t feel, look or taste like peasant food at all. I have always loved Dolmas, and some of my earliest vital memories of food are watching my grandmother stuff…