haftsin

Haftsin is a traditional Persian dish that originates from the city of Yazd in central Iran. It is a type of stuffed bread, often associated with the Nowruz festival, which marks the Persian New Year. The dish is typically prepared during the last week of the Persian year, known as Haftsin, which translates to "seven sins" in English, symbolizing the cleansing of sins and the beginning of a new cycle.

The name Haftsin is also the name of a specific meal served on the last night of the Persian New Year celebrations, known as Chaharshanbe Suri. This meal consists of seven symbolic items, each beginning with the Persian letter "S" (س), which are placed on a shared plate. While the traditional Haftsin meal includes items like sabzeh (sprouts), senjed (dried oleaster fruit), serkeh (vinegar), sir (garlic), somaq (sumac), samanu (wheat germ pudding), and seer (apples), the term Haftsin itself specifically refers to the stuffed bread.

The bread is made from a simple dough, often flavored with saffron or rosewater, and is stuffed with a mixture of ground walnuts, dried fruits like raisins or apricots, and spices such as cinnamon and cardamom. The filling is sometimes combined with a bit of sugar or honey to enhance its sweetness. The dough is rolled out, stuffed, and then baked until golden brown. Haftsin is typically enjoyed as a sweet treat, often served with tea or other beverages.

This dish reflects the rich culinary traditions of Iranian cuisine and is a beloved part of Nowruz celebrations, symbolizing unity, prosperity, and the renewal of life. Its preparation and sharing are central to the festive atmosphere during this time.