Iranians are extremely hospitable, so when a guest comes to visit, they are certain to serve something. The Iranian snacks served in Veil of Roses are very simple. They consist of 2 elements: Fruits and nuts served with tea.
Fruits
The fruit that was often serve was usually dried apricots. Dried fruits still retain most of the nutritional value as fresh fruits, but last much longer. Iran is 1st in fruit production in the middle east and North Africa region and they are 8-10th globally.
source
Nuts
The nuts Tamila served weren’t identified, but I assume it was agil (term for mixed nuts: pistacios, almonds, cashews, hazelnuts, seeds, and raisins). Nuts are also produced in Iran: Persian walnuts, pistachios, and almonds. Iran tops pistacios production and they are typically a favorite. They can be eaten salted, roasted, limed, spiced, or plain.
source
Tea
Iran is the 7th largest producer of tea. They have the highest per capita of tea consumption. The typical Iranian tea consisted of loose tea leaves with an addition of dried rose petals.
source
Shrini Keshmeshi Cookies
Tamila in Veil of Roses mentioned bring Nane Shirini cookies to her classmates. I wanted to try them, but they contained nuts. With my son being allergic to them, but an avid cookie eater, I decided to search for another Iranian cookie. Thus enter the shirini keshmeshi cookies. They are butter cookies with raisins inside (if not nuts, then dried fruit, right?)
They are very easy to make and I am proud of myself because I think this is my first successful cookie ever. I wonder if butter cookies are my specialty. My daughter and husband loved them while they were fresh. My daughter said, “These would be better without the raisins.” My son fell asleep and wasn’t able to try them until the next day. He explicitly stated,”I don’t like this.” So much for being thoughtful.
source
Would you try any of these Iranian snack?
Facebook / Instagram / Twitter/ Pinterest