The Sweet Side of Iran: Exploring Persian Desserts in Toronto

Toronto’s vibrant culinary scene is a melting pot of cultures and flavors, and among the many cuisines represented, Iranian food has carved out a special niche. While many are familiar with savory Iranian dishes like kebabs and stews, the sweet side of Iranian cuisine is equally captivating. Persian desserts, known for their delicate flavors and fragrant ingredients, offer a unique taste experience that is unlike any other. In this article, we’ll explore the delightful world of Persian desserts and where to find these sweet treats in Toronto, bringing the richness of Iranian food in Toronto to your palate.

The Art of Persian Desserts

Persian desserts are often a harmonious blend of sweetness, fragrance, and texture. Ingredients like saffron, rosewater, cardamom, and pistachios are commonly used, infusing each dessert with aromatic and exotic flavors. Many Persian sweets also have a subtle sweetness, making them a perfect companion to a cup of Persian tea.

Key Ingredients in Persian Desserts:

• Saffron: Known as the most expensive spice in the world, saffron adds a golden hue and a distinctive flavor to many Persian desserts.
• Rosewater: A staple in Persian desserts, rosewater gives sweets a floral aroma and a delicate taste.
• Cardamom: This spice is used for its warm, aromatic flavor, often paired with saffron or rosewater.
• Pistachios: A common garnish, pistachios add a nutty flavor and a vibrant green color to many Persian sweets.

Must-Try Persian Desserts in Toronto

Toronto is home to several Iranian bakeries and restaurants that offer authentic Persian desserts. Here are some must-try sweets and where you can find them in the city:

1. Baklava

• What It Is: Persian baklava is different from its Greek counterpart, as it tends to be lighter and less sweet, with layers of thin pastry, finely chopped nuts, and a hint of rosewater.
• Where to Find It: Tavazo Nuts and Dried Fruits (257 Finch Ave W, North York, ON) offers a variety of Persian baklava that is freshly made and perfectly balanced in sweetness.

2. Faloodeh

• What It Is: One of the oldest known frozen desserts, faloodeh is a refreshing treat made from thin rice noodles, rosewater syrup, and a splash of lime juice. It’s a perfect summer dessert.
• Where to Find It: Pomegranate Restaurant (420 College St, Toronto, ON) serves a delightful version of faloodeh, often garnished with sour cherry syrup.

3. Sholeh Zard

• What It Is: Sholeh Zard is a fragrant saffron rice pudding, sweetened with sugar and often garnished with cinnamon, almonds, and pistachios. The saffron and rosewater give it a beautiful color and a unique flavor.
• Where to Find It: Shirin Mahal (6103 Yonge St, North York, ON) offers this delicacy, perfect for those seeking a comforting and aromatic dessert.

4. Persian Love Cake

• What It Is: A romantic and aromatic cake made with rosewater, cardamom, and sometimes saffron, often garnished with pistachios and dried rose petals. It’s rich, moist, and full of flavors that represent the essence of Persian sweets.
• Where to Find It: Takht-e Tavoos (1120 College St, Toronto, ON) is known for its beautifully presented Persian Love Cake, which is as delightful to look at as it is to eat.

5. Zoolbia-Bamieh

• What It Is: These are deep-fried sweets, often enjoyed during the month of Ramadan. Zoolbia is a crunchy, syrup-soaked fritter, while Bamieh is a doughnut-like pastry, both soaked in a rosewater and saffron syrup.
• Where to Find It: Khorak Supermarket (6125 Yonge St, North York, ON) offers a variety of freshly made Zoolbia-Bamieh, which are perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Persian Desserts at Home

For those who are inspired to bring the sweet side of Iranian food in Toronto into their own kitchens, here’s a simple recipe to try:

Recipe: Persian Saffron Ice Cream (Bastani Sonnati)

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground saffron, dissolved in 1 tablespoon hot water
  • 1 tablespoon rosewater
  • 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
• Instructions:
  1. In a saucepan, combine milk, cream, and sugar. Heat until the sugar dissolves, then remove from heat.
  2. Stir in the saffron water and rosewater. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
  3. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  4. In the last few minutes of churning, add the chopped pistachios.
  5. Transfer the ice cream to a container and freeze until firm.
  6. Serve with additional pistachios on top.

Conclusion

Exploring Persian desserts in Toronto is a journey into the rich, fragrant, and flavorful world of Iranian cuisine. Whether you’re indulging in a delicate baklava, savoring the floral notes of faloodeh, or creating your own Persian saffron ice cream at home, these desserts offer a sweet glimpse into the heart of Iranian food in Toronto. So next time you’re craving something sweet, take a detour from the usual and dive into the world of Persian desserts—your taste buds will thank you.