The evolution of Parsi Cuisine is quite interesting. During the early 17th century, the Parsis migrated from Iran to all parts of the world. History shows that most of them decided to reside in Karachi in Pakistan or on the west coast of India. In India, the Parsi community primarily settled in cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, and Hyderabad.
With time, Indians started to fall in love with the mouth-watering Parsi cuisine. According to many reports, even before Italian and Chinese cuisine were introduced in Mumbai, India, Parsi cuisine was a favourite of many. It became an integral part of all roadside cafes and restaurants as time passed.
Parsi cuisine comprises several delectable vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes and some lovely desserts. It is also considered one of the world’s oldest and most sought-after cuisines.
What does Parsi Cuisine include?
Parsi cooking uses premium ingredients like saffron and cinnamon, giving it its unique taste. The Iranian fare includes mutton, chicken, stew, seafood, and dry fruits. The most famous Parsi dishes are Mawa cake, bun maska, berry pulao, and keema pav.
These items have become inextricably linked with the Indian palate, and a new Indian Parsi cuisine has evolved. One indispensable item to most Parsis is fish. Also, they love the tanginess of tomatoes and the sweetness of jaggery in their food. Moreover, vegetables are also an essential part of their food. However, things have now changed. For example – Chorpat Par Edu, a famous Parsi dish, is primarily cooked with eggs and a bitter gourd.
How is Parsi food changing?
Authentic Parsi food underwent several modifications as time passed and started catering more to Indian taste buds. However, it is still highly influenced by the Iranian food culture. Besides the main courses or appetisers, desserts are an exciting part of every Parsi’s life. They are delicious and mouth-watering. However, the deserts are inspired mainly by colonial India. For example – The Lagan Nu Custard is a delicious pudding, whereas, Chapat, which tastes and looks exactly like pancakes, is served with hot, ginger-flavoured tea.
Unfortunately, with time, Parsi food is beginning to lose its authenticity. As a result, most cafes serving Parsi food are beginning to shut down. So, if you’re craving delicious Parsi food, you either have to go to a Parsi home or maybe you can cook it by yourself!
List of top 7 Parsi recipes
Parsi dishes are an exotic mix of herbs, spices, sweetness and tangy flavours. Here is the list of the top 7 Parsi Cuisine recipes to try:
- Sali Boti
- Akuri
- Sali Marghi
- Parsi Mutton Cutlets
- Patra Ni Marchi
- Dhansak Masala
- Sali Par Edu
If you haven’t tried the mouth-watering Parsi cuisine dishes yet, why not make them at home? If you’re a fan of Parsi Cuisine and haven’t tried it yet, you can check out some of these authentic recipes – Kolmi Ni Patio, and Parsi Mutton Dhansak. Happy cooking!