TEHRAN - Motaharabad, a village in Zarand county of Kerman province, is set to host a culinary festival dedicated to baking the largest-ever Komaj Sehen, a traditional pastry of the region.

The event aims to raise funds for the war-torn people of Gaza Strip and Lebanon, blending cultural heritage with humanitarian aid.

Mohammad Eslami, the head of the local Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts office, emphasized the significance of this event in promoting both cultural heritage and social responsibility. "The festival aims to blend the rich culinary tradition of Zarand with a noble cause, making it a meaningful celebration," he stated during a planning meeting.

Deputy Governor of Zarand, Mohammad Izadi, highlighted the global resonance of this initiative. "This festival is not just about baking a large pastry; it is a demonstration of global solidarity against oppression and violence.”

It is a testament to the widespread anger and grief over the atrocities faced by the people of Gaza and Lebanon by the Zionist regime, he added.

Komaj Sehen, a cherished sweet from the Kerman region, is made by combining wheat sprout flour with regular wheat flour. The dough is filled with dates, nuts like walnuts, almonds, or pistachios, and seasoned with spices such as clove and fennel seeds. Despite lacking preservatives, this high-calorie pastry is known for its long shelf life and its ability to provide a sense of satiety when paired with milk.

The festival is scheduled for Friday, November 8.

AM