TEHRAN - Khoresht-e Maast, a traditional Iranian stew made with yogurt, has been officially patented by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), a subsidiary of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.

Mojgan Izadi, an official from the Isfahan Chamber of Commerce, announced the registration on Wednesday.

The side dish, which features beef, yogurt, sugar, and saffron, is a culinary staple in Iranian cuisine and holds cultural significance in the central region of Isfahan.

Speaking on the occasion, Izadi emphasized that food is an integral part of a region’s intangible heritage. She noted that securing patents for traditional dishes not only preserves cultural identity but also serves as a catalyst for boosting tourism in the areas where such recipes originate.

As mentioned by Izadi, the new registration highlights global recognition of Iranian cuisine and underscores the value of protecting traditional culinary practices on an international scale.

Isfahan is Iran’s top tourist destination for good reason. Its profusion of tree-lined boulevards, Persian gardens, and important Islamic buildings gives it a visual appeal unmatched by any other Iranian city, and the many artisans working here underpin its reputation as a living museum of traditional culture.

Walking through its historical bazaars, over the picturesque bridges, and across the gigantic UNESCO-listed Naqsh-e Jahan Square are sure to be highlights of a holiday in the ancient city.

AM