faloodeh

Faloodeh (Persian: فالوده) is a traditional Iranian cold dessert consisting of very thin, spaghetti-like noodles made from starch, usually rice starch, mixed with a semi-frozen syrup flavored with rose water and lemon or lime juice, and served over finely shaved ice. It is one of the oldest Persian frozen desserts and is closely associated with Shiraz in southern Iran, though versions are prepared across the country. The dish has centuries of presence in Persian culinary culture and remains a popular summer treat.

Preparation and ingredients typically involve briefly boiling the starch noodles, rinsing and cooling them, and then tossing them with a sugar syrup scented with rose water and mixed with citrus juice. The mixture is served over crushed or shaved ice, often in a glass or bowl. Common toppings include crushed pistachios or almonds; some regional variants add pomegranate or sour cherry syrups for additional tartness and color.

Regional variations and distinctions: Faloodeh is distinct from falooda, a related dessert popular in South Asia and the Middle East that usually combines vermicelli with milk or ice cream and basil seeds. In traditional Iranian faloodeh, the preparation is dairy-free, though modern or fusion versions sometimes incorporate dairy components or accompaniments.

Historical and cultural notes: The dessert is embedded in Persian culinary heritage and is emblematic of hot-season street and table fare in Iran. Shops and vendors in cities such as Shiraz are noted for their faloodeh offerings, and the dish continues to be adapted by chefs and home cooks alike while preserving its core combination of starch noodles, rose-scented syrup, and ice.