DIY Book Club

It’s impossible to read The Lion Women of Tehran and not get hungry. So many mouthwatering food references!

Fortunately, Persian recipes abound on the internet.

We chose 10 to try out for you, dishes you can make for a book club discussion or simply if you’re curious to learn more about this oh-so-flavorful cuisine. None of them is hard, though a few are rather fussy (but worth the effort if you have the time).

You can also look for recipes on your own at sites like these: saffronandherbs.com, unicornsinthekitchen.com, beatseats.com and themediterraneandish.com.

Additionally, author Marjan Kamali has a few recipes on her website for dishes described in her book.

Some of the more unusual ingredients can be found at Middle Eastern food stores such as Shirazi Persian Market, 2864 N. Oakland Ave., Indian Groceries and Spices, 10700 W. North Ave., Penzeys, 12001 W. Capitol Drive, or online.

Note: Saffron is a key ingredient in Iranian cuisine, but it is very expensive. Turmeric can be substituted, though the flavor will be different. For the closest approximation, use ¼ teaspoon turmeric plus ½ teaspoon paprika for every large pinch (or ¼ teaspoon) of saffron. If the recipe calls for saffron bloomed in water, be sure to add the same amount of water.

Happy reading, cooking and feasting!

For a quicker, easier option, your book club could share one or more of these snacks that were mentioned in the book:

• Toast with feta cheese, cherry jam and quince jam
• Plate of dates and walnuts
• Platter of oranges, apples, cucumbers and grapes
• Tray of tea (such as bergamot), dates, sugar cubes with baklava and other pastries
• Caviar on toast (fancy!)