Feast of Norouz
March 25, 2007
Fertility festivals around the world do not compare to the sumptuous delights of the Persian New Year called Norouz. Norouz is celebrated on the day of the astronomical vernal equinox (start of spring in northern hemisphere), which usually occurs on the March 21st or the previous/following day depending on where it is observed.
I had the honor of attending a Norouz feast at my boyfriend's parents' house. I was treated to a delicious spread traditionally referred to as the Haft Seen table, or the Seven S's table. The table includes seven items starting with the letter S pronounced "seen" in Persian. The items symbolically correspond to seven creations and holy immortals protecting them. Originally called Haft Chin, the Haft Seen has evolved over time, but has kept its symbolism. Traditionally, families attempt to set as beautiful a Haft Seen table as they can, as it is not only of traditional and spiritual value, but also noticed by visitors during Norouzi visitations and is a reflection of their good taste.
The Haft Sin items are:
sabzeh - wheat, barley or lentil sprouts growing in a dish - symbolizing rebirth
samanu - a sweet pudding made from wheat germ - symbolizing affluence
senjed - the dried fruit of the oleaster tree - symbolizing love
sîr - garlic - symbolizing medicine
sîb - apples - symbolizing beauty and health
somaq - sumac berries - symbolizing (the color of) sunrise
serkeh - vinegar - symbolizing age and patience
Other items on the table may include:
Sonbol - Hyacinth (flower)
Sekkeh - Coins - representative of wealth
traditional Iranian pastries such as baghlava, toot, naan-nokhodchi
dried nuts, berries and raisins (Aajeel)
lit candles (enlightenment and happiness)
The food I ate at this lovely festival included a traditional rice dish made with basmati rice, fresh chopped dill, fava beans, and some safron turned rice. Lucky for me, I have left overs.
So Happy Norouz, eat well, be merry.
