The followers of Prophet Zarathushtra, who was born in Airyana Vaeja in the Central Asian mountain foothills, are known as Parsis and hail from the former Persian Empire. This prophet revealed Zoroastrianism, the world’s first monotheistic religion, 3,500 years ago. Despite being so old, there are still roughly 200,000 Zarathustis who practise their religion globally. Around 1,200 years ago, in the 9th century, many people evacuated Persia and immigrated to India.
They arrived in Gujarat, where they were welcomed with the stringent proviso that they were not allowed to seek for converts, and there they started a new chapter in their lives. Locals in this tiny settlement of Zarthustis were then known as Parsis. The Parsi community is currently facing extinction throughout the world and is also dealing with internal concerns about how to preserve the survival of their faith and culture, predominantly their cuisine.
Evolution of Parsi Cuisine
The Parsis went from Iran to all corners of the globe in the early 17th century. History reveals that the majority of them made the decision to settle in Karachi, Pakistan, or on India’s west coast. The Parsi population in India mostly immigrated to cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, and Hyderabad.
Indians eventually began to fall in love with the delectable Parsi food. Numerous reports claim that Parsi cuisine was popular in Mumbai, India, long before Italian and Chinese food were imported. As time went on, it was a crucial component of every roadside cafe and eatery.
The delicious vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, as well as some wonderful sweets, are all part of the Parsi cuisine. It is also regarded as one of the most traditional and popular cuisines in the world.
The Distinct Flavours
Premium ingredients like saffron and cinnamon are used in Parsi food to give it its distinct flavour. Mutton, chicken, stew, shellfish, and dry fruits are among the dishes served in Iran. The Mawa cake, bun maska, berry pulao, and keema pav are among the most well-known Parsi foods.
With the emergence of a new Indian Parsi cuisine, these ingredients have been closely tied with the Indian palate. Fish is a staple food for the majority of Parsis. They also enjoy the sweetness of jaggery and the tanginess of tomatoes in their meals. In addition, veggies are a crucial component of their diet. But now, circumstances have shifted. For instance, the popular Parsi dish; Chorpat Par Edu is largely prepared with eggs and a bitter gourd.
Modifications in the dishes
As time went on, traditional Parsi cuisine experienced numerous changes and began to appeal more to Indian palates. However, the Iranian culinary tradition continues to have a significant influence. Desserts are an exciting aspect of any Parsi’s life, in addition to the main courses or appetisers. They are mouth-watering and excellent. However, imperial India serves as a major inspiration for the deserts. For instance, Chapat, which is served with hot, ginger-flavored tea, tastes and looks precisely like pancakes but is a delectable custard called Lagan Nu Custard.
Unfortunately, the authenticity of Parsi food is eroding over time. As a result, the majority of cafés that serve Parsi cuisine are starting to close. In order to satisfy your hunger for delectable Parsi food, you must visit a Parsi food joints or you may be able to prepare it yourself.
Top Seven Dishes
The flavours in Parsi cuisine are an unusual fusion of herbs, spices, sweetness, and tang. The top 7 Parsi cuisine recipes to attempt are listed below:
Sali Boti
Akuri
Sali Marghi
Parsi Mutton Cutlets
Patra Ni Machchi
Dhansak
Sali Par Edu
Why not prepare the delectable dishes of Parsi cuisine at home on Navroz? Kolmi Ni Patio and Parsi Mutton Dhansak (or the vegetarian variant) are two real recipes to try if you’re a fan of Parsi cuisine but haven’t yet.
