Pashmak (پشمک) is a traditional Iranian confection resembling cotton candy in appearance. The name “pashmak” in Persian literally means “small wool” or “a little wave,” referencing its characteristic fluffy and fibrous texture.
Pashmak: Iranian Cotton Candy
This sweetness is popular in Iran and other Middle Eastern countries, where it is traditionally served at various holidays, celebrations, or family gatherings.
Pashmak is one of the traditional Persian sweets with a long history, as techniques for making similar fibrous confections were known as early as the 15th century. It is associated with the Iranian city of Yazd, which is famous for its confectionery production.
Ingredients and Flavors of Pashmak
The main ingredients for making pashmak are sugar, flour, oil (typically sesame oil), and sometimes also pistachios, cardamom, or saffron for flavoring and coloring. Today, pashmak is available in many different flavors, and you can easily find:
- vanilla pashmak
- saffron pashmak
- chocolate pashmak
- pistachio pashmak
- pashmak with rose water (my favorite)
How Pashmak Is Made
The traditional production of pashmak is quite complex and requires experience and patience.
- First, sugar is boiled with water until a thick sugar syrup is formed.
- Roasted flour is added to the syrup, along with oil, most commonly sesame oil. This mixture is then stirred and kneaded intensively until it reaches the right consistency.
- Once the proper consistency is achieved, the mixture is repeatedly stretched, twisted, and pulled. This process requires the confectioner’s skill and dexterity, as it must form thin, delicate, and long sugar fibers resembling wool.
- The finished fibers are packed into smaller portions.
Iranian Pashmak vs. Turkish Pișmaniye
Pashmak is often compared with the Turkish confection pişmaniye, which has a similar fibrous texture and appearance. Both confections are made in a similar way by stretching and pulling sugar syrup mixed with flour and oil, and they are indeed very similar, with only small differences.
Pashmak, like Turkish pişmaniye, is one of my favorite treats.
Bon appétit!
