Throw a Persian-Themed Dinner Party

A Tehran native who spent part of her childhood in Canada, Naz Deravian balances blogging with roles on shows like Homeland and Criminal Minds. Her recipes fuse the ancient flavors or Iran with local ingredients. Deravian and her husband, Drew Wicks, bring together friends at their Los Angeles home for Yalda, a Persian celebration of the winter solstice, the longest night of the year. Take a look into the recipes that bring the celebration to life.

When warmed, tart barberries—popular in Persian dishes—turn a jewel-like red. Don’t let the many steps here dissuade you; they fit together for maximum efficiency.

Recipes:

Saffron Chicken

Barberry Rice

A heaping platter of herbs and vegetables is served with the main dish to deliver the perfect bite.

Recipe: Fresh Herb Platter

Deravian always serves this cooling, delicate yogurt with barberry rice. If you like, add raisins, chopped walnuts, dill, minced garlic or green onions, or chopped chives.

Recipe: Cucumber Yogurt with Mint and Rose

Deravian serves this gentle, refreshing drink for Yalda. Its red hue symbolizes light.

Recipe: Cranberry Orange Rose Sharbat