Naomi Duguid’s Taste of Persia: A Cook’s Travels Through Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Iran, and Kurdistan is more than just a cookbook—it’s a beautifully woven tapestry of culture, history, and the deep connection between food and identity. Duguid, an expert in exploring the intersection of cuisine and heritage, takes readers on a journey through the diverse and rich culinary landscapes of the Persian world. With its stunning photography, evocative storytelling, and well-researched recipes, The Taste of Persia is an immersive experience for anyone interested in food, travel, or the human stories behind traditional dishes. https://www.naomiduguid.com/
My father grew up by the Caspian Sea so when my Ancestry DNA showed some Persian heritage, I was curious about the region. Persia, as Duguid presents it, is not confined to modern-day Iran. Instead, it encompasses a vast and interconnected cultural sphere, touching parts of the Caucasus, Central Asia, and the Middle East. By including Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Kurdistan alongside Iran, she broadens the reader’s perspective on how deeply intertwined these regions are, despite their political and national boundaries.
Duguid’s approach is deeply personal, as she shares her experiences traveling through these lands, meeting home cooks, bakers, farmers, and artisans. She captures the warmth of hospitality, the resilience of cultures, and the passion people have for their food traditions. Through her writing, readers get a sense of sitting at a family table in Tbilisi, tasting saffron-infused dishes in Isfahan, or biting into a freshly baked lavash in Yerevan.
The book offers over 125 recipes, ranging from well-known Persian classics like fesenjan (pomegranate and walnut stew) to regional gems like Thanksgiving Pumpkin Rice and Georgian khinkali (dumplings). Duguid presents these recipes with a keen eye for authenticity while also making them accessible to home cooks unfamiliar with the cuisine. Since it will soon be Easter, we thought you’d like to try the Easter Stew with Tarragon in our Recipe section…with lamb, of course!
Each recipe is accompanied by a story, historical context, or an anecdote about the people who prepare it. For example, her section on flatbreads showcases not only the techniques for baking them but also the communal spirit behind their preparation. She respects the traditions but also acknowledges the variations that exist from village to village, demonstrating the fluidity and adaptability of these culinary traditions.
One of the most compelling aspects of The Taste of Persia is its breathtaking photography. Duguid’s images capture not only the food but also the landscapes, markets, and everyday life of the people she meets. The book is as much a travelogue as it is a cookbook, making it a joy to flip through even when one isn’t in the mood to cook.
We first met world traveler Naomi Duguid through her book The Miracle of Salt at https://canadiancookbooks.ca/the-miracle-of-salt-2/ To see and purchase both books go to https://www.naomiduguid.com/books and win the Persian delight in our Giveaway section.
Naomi Duguid has once again proven herself to be a masterful storyteller and cultural guide. The Taste of Persia is an essential book for anyone passionate about global cuisine, history, and the connections between food and identity. It’s a celebration of resilience, tradition, and the power of food to bring people together across borders. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a curious traveler, this book will inspire you to explore the flavors and stories of the Persian world.
Excerpted from Taste of Persia (Artisan Books). Copyright © 2016. Photographs by Naomi Duguid and Gentl & Hyers. https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/naomi-duguid/taste-of-persia/9781579655488/
