Persian Feasts

Recipes & Stories from a Family Table

Leila Taghinia-Milani Heller author Lila Charif author Laya Khadjavi author Bahar Tavakolian author

Format:Hardback

Publisher:Phaidon Press Ltd

Published:12th Sep '24

Should be back in stock very soon

Persian Feasts cover

This cookbook offers 100 traditional Persian recipes, beautifully interwoven with family stories and cultural insights, making Persian Feasts a delightful culinary journey.

In Persian Feasts, readers are invited to explore a rich tapestry of Iranian cuisine through 100 carefully curated home-cooking recipes. This collection is not just a compilation of dishes; it is a heartfelt tribute to family traditions and the culinary heritage passed down through generations. When Nahid Taghinia-Milani emigrated to the United States in 1979, she brought with her a treasure trove of recipes that reflect the vibrant flavors and aromas of her homeland. Each dish in Persian Feasts encapsulates a story, offering insights into the culture and history of Persian cooking.

The book showcases a diverse array of dishes, from hearty stews to fragrant rice and succulent kebabs, all prepared with seasonal ingredients and aromatic spices. Readers will discover unexpected combinations that create distinctive flavors, such as the comforting Eggplant, Walnut & Pomegranate Stew and the delicate Cardamom and Rose Water Pudding. These recipes not only celebrate the artistry of Persian cooking but also highlight the significance of food in family gatherings and celebrations.

Accompanied by stunning food photography, Persian Feasts is more than just a cookbook; it is a sensory experience that captures the essence of Persian culture. With personal anecdotes, historical context, and celebratory menus, this book serves as an invitation for home cooks to embrace the warmth and richness of Persian cuisine, ensuring that these cherished recipes continue to be shared and enjoyed for years to come.

‘A work of art … with elegant prose and gorgeous full-color photography, Persian Feasts stands out as a stunning tribute to culinary tradition and family ties.’ – SAVEUR, Best Cookbooks of Fall 2024

‘While much discussion has focused on various aspects of Iranian culture in recent times, Persian cuisine is rarely highlighted, despite being one of the finest expressions of Iranian heritage. Persian Feasts by Leila Heller is a celebration of this ancient culture and a heartfelt tribute to her mother, Nahid Joon, an extraordinary woman whose generous, delicious cooking and warm hospitality captivated her community. Years after her passing, Persian Feasts documents Nahid Joon’s remarkable legacy and is destined to remain as one of the most significant books ever written about Persian cuisine.’ – Shirin Neshat, artist

‘I have always been a big admirer of Leila Heller and her taste for entertainment, culture, and tradition. She has written one of the most soulful and personal books on refreshing, fragrant, and delicious Persian dishes that express her youth, family tradition, and sophistication. Just like me, enjoy Leila’s recipes at home for your next party.’ – Daniel Boulud, chef and restaurateur


‘An artistic masterpiece. It's as beautiful to look at as it is to cook from.’ – Food & Wine, Best Cookbooks of Fall 2024
‘Colorful … It’s so easy to get lost in the maze of dazzling salads glittering with ruby-hued pomegranate seeds, caramelized pears scattered with bright green slivered pistachios, and endless stews and curries dyed yellow with saffron.’ – Eater, Best Cookbooks of Fall 2024
‘Full of colorful, fragrant dishes highlighting the stunning breadth of Persian cuisine, Heller bridges the gap between food, art, culture and history in a way that is both inspiring and totally novel.’ – Salon

‘A beauty of a cookbook with its lush food photos set on backgrounds of Middle Eastern designs.’ – New York Journal of Books

‘Interspersed amongst the recipes are family stories and reflections on Iranian culture that give deeper significance to these comforting meals.’ – Chowhound

‘What if your family’s recipes got made into a cookbook? That’s exactly what Leila Heller did – travel through time (and taste) in Persian Feasts.’ – B&N Reads, Best Cookbooks of 2024

‘Comprehensive appendices--detailed explanations and directions about staples, menus, ingredients, even "food properties" – encourage and enable the aspiring home chef.’ – Shelf Awareness
‘Interspersed amongst the recipes are family stories and reflections on Iranian culture that give deeper significance to these comforting meals.’ – Chowhound

ISBN: 9781838667528

Dimensions: 270mm x 205mm x 17mm

Weight: unknown

272 pages