What is samanak?

Samanak is a traditional Iranian dish that is typically made during the Persian festival of Mehregan, which celebrates the autumn harvest. It is a sweet pudding-like dish made from wheat germ and flour that is cooked slowly over low heat for several hours until it reaches a thick, sticky consistency.

Samanak is traditionally prepared by a group of women who take turns stirring the pot and singing songs as they cook. This communal cooking process is said to bring good luck and prosperity to the household.

The ingredients used to make samanak can vary slightly depending on the region, but the basic recipe includes wheat germ, flour, sugar, and water. Some recipes also call for ingredients like milk, butter, or saffron to add flavor and richness to the dish.

Once the samanak is cooked to the desired consistency, it is traditionally served with nuts, dried fruits, and spices like cinnamon and cardamom. It is often enjoyed as a dessert or sweet snack during the Mehregan festival, but can also be eaten year-round as a special treat.