TEHRAN - In a vibrant celebration of culinary heritage, the Samanu festival was held in Bojnourd in collaboration with the municipality and the Cultural Heritage Department of North Khorasan province on Friday.

The festival, hosted at the Bojnourd Citizens' Cultural Center, witnessed a remarkable turnout from the local community, eager to partake in the festivities.

Several skilled Samanu chefs from the city of Daraq showcased their expertise in preparing this traditional delicacy, engaging attendees in the art of Samanu-making.

Alongside the preparation of Samanu, various other dishes such as Aash Reshteh (noodle soup), Dolmeh (stuffed vegetables), and Qottqab (a type of dessert) were also cooked and served, adding to the gastronomic delights of the event.

In addition to the culinary experiences, the festival featured an array of regional performances including traditional music and local dances, enhancing the festive atmosphere.

Daraq, popularly known as the capital of Samanu in Iran, boasts a reputation for producing Samanu of exceptional quality, renowned for its longevity and lasting flavor.

The festival, called Samanu-Pazan by the locals, as a cherished spiritual tradition, holds a special place in the hearts of Iranians, particularly during the Nowruz festivities, symbolizing renewal and the arrival of spring.

Samanu is one of the items included in Haft-Seen, an arrangement of seven symbolic items traditionally displayed in the Iranian New Year, Nowruz.

Setting a “Haft-Seen” spread for Nowruz is a custom that is being observed by almost all Iranians worldwide.

Seven items on the table start with ‘S’ in Persian, in addition to goldfish, colorful eggs, the holy Quran, candles, and a mirror.

The seven items include Sabzeh (wheat, barley, mung bean, or lentil sprouts growing in a dish), Samanu (sweet pudding made from wheat germ), Senjed (wild olive fruit), Seer (garlic), Seeb (apple), Sumac (a spice) and Serkeh (vinegar).

AM