Habeh anab is an Iranian jujube cube. This is a traditional sweet made from the pulp of the jujube fruit. These small cubes are created by compressing and drying the jujube pulp, which gives them a naturally sweet taste reminiscent of dates. In Iran, they are eaten on their own or added to tea and desserts.
Gaz is a traditional Iranian confection resembling nougat. It is made from egg whites and a natural sweet sap called manna, complemented by pistachios or almonds. It originates from the city of Esfahan, where it has been produced since the Safavid dynasty. Originally a delicacy for the nobility, gaz is now a symbol of Esfahan’s confectionery and a popular souvenir.
Nabat is traditional Iranian crystallized sugar. It consists of large, transparent or yellowish crystals, often on sticks. It is mainly used to sweeten tea. Apart from Iran, it is also popular in other Middle Eastern and South Asian countries.
Haji badam is a traditional Iranian sweet made from almonds. It originates from the historic city of Yazd, which is famous for its desserts and confectionery. This small, round treat with a golden color and crunchy texture is made from ground almonds, sugar, egg yolk, saffron, and cardamom.
Lavashak is a thin sheet of dried fruit purée with a distinct sweet-and-sour taste and a slightly chewy texture. It is made from various types of fruit, cooked into a purée, strained, and dried. This method of fruit processing has a long history in Iran, serving as a practical way to preserve seasonal produce. Similar products can also be found in Georgia and Turkey.
Loz is a traditional Iranian sweet made from ground almonds. It is distinguished by its delicate texture, distinct flavor, and typical diamond shape. There are many variations, such as coconut, saffron, or orange blossom extract. Loz is a staple of Iranian confectioneries.
Faloodeh Yazdi is a traditional cold dessert from the city of Yazd. It consists of thin starch noodles soaked in thick syrup made from rose water and sugar. Unlike the more widespread Faloodeh Shirazi, which contains slushy ice, Faloodeh Yazdi is characterized by its thicker syrup and the addition of water-absorbing seeds.
Bambalouni, a Tunisian specialty from Sidi Bou Said, is a fried dessert resembling a doughnut. It is a popular street food in Tunisia. Bambalouni are served hot, coated in sugar.
Tunisian zrir is a dessert made from roasted and ground sesame seeds, honey, and various nuts. Its pleasantly sweet flavor is enhanced by aromatic spices like cinnamon or anise. This typical Tunisian delicacy is traditionally prepared for special occasions such as the birth of a child or a wedding.
Assidat zgougou is a traditional Tunisian dessert primarily prepared for Mawlid celebrations but available year-round in pastry shops. The dessert has a characteristic creamy texture, achieved thanks to its main ingredient – the seeds of the Aleppo pine. The surface is decorated with nuts, often arranged in artistic patterns.
