The meals are a mix of the most nutritious ingredients including meat, rice, vegetables, beans and spices, according to chef Aliyeh.
“Iranian meals are simple, affordable to prepare and low in fat, making them ideal for the health-conscious,” she said.
Herbs are frequently used, along with fruits such as plums, pomegranates, quince, prunes, apricots and raisins.
Sour foods are also a big deal, with sour cherries, vinegars and pickled vegetables (torshi) among the favourites.
Join in the class at the Granville Centre on Thursday, May 27, 6-9pm, costing $50-$80.
Aliyeh says she will be teaching participants how to prepare a Shirzi Salad with finely chopped cucumber, tomato, red onion, lemon juice and parsley as well as Vegetarian Samboshi with potato, parsley, beans, onion, garlic and curry powder in puff pastry.
“Afterwards, we will dine together at the centre which has a beautiful, purpose-built space set up and any leftovers will be shared,” she said.
“Participants will also enjoy a gluten-free Nargili Sweet for dessert and get to take home the bonus recipe.”
Offering a cosy experience for about 10 participants, each Flavours of Auburn class is engaging and hands-on.
Classes are delivered by cooks from Auburn Small Community Organisation Network (ASCON) and House of Welcome, and offer participants an opportunity to learn about ingredients, recipes and culture.
Bookings: eventbrite.com.au, 8757 9796 or Marika.Kahle@cumberland.nsw.gov.au.
Chef to share secret of creating Iranian cuisine
THE next Flavours of Auburn cooking class will see participants “take a trip to Iran” and get a taste of the cuisine enjoyed by families there today as well their Persian ancestors.