Haji badam (حاجی بادام) is a traditional Iranian sweet made from almonds. It originates from the city of Yazd, which is renowned for its rich history of confectionery and dessert making. This small sweet is one of the popular regional specialties.
Haji badam typically has a small, round shape and a light, golden color. Its texture is delicate and slightly crunchy.
The name “haji badam” consists of two Persian words: “haji” (حاجی), referring to a person who has completed a pilgrimage to Mecca, and “badam” (بادام), meaning almond. The exact reason why this sweet is called “haji badam” is unknown. Some sources suggest that it might have originally been made for pilgrims heading to Mecca or was a typical gift brought back by pilgrims from their journey.
The main ingredients of haji badam are ground almonds, sugar, egg yolk, saffron, and cardamom. The characteristic combination of these ingredients gives the sweet its distinctive aroma and flavor.
Haji badam is commonly served in Iran during various festive occasions, holidays, celebrations, or when visiting friends and family. This sweet is also a popular food souvenir that tourists often bring back from Yazd (in the famous confectionery Haj Khalifeh Ali Rahbar & Shoraka, a 500 g package cost approximately 110,000 IRR, i.e., 0.10 EUR).
Have you had the chance to try haji badam? What do you think of this tiny sweet?
Bon appétit!
