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Exclusive Journeys with SURFIRAN: Premier Iran Tours Tailored for the Avid Explorer

Discover the true essence of Iran, a country often misunderstood yet full of potential to redefine our world view. With its deep historical roots, vibrant culture, and unmatched hospitality, Iran promises an authentic journey beyond ordinary sightseeing. SURFIRAN's tours invite travelers to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Iran's heritage.

This article aims to debunk myths and position Iran as a premier destination for those seeking authentic cultural exchanges and adventure.

Iran's Untold Beauty

Iran's diverse landscape offers a stunning array of contrasts, from snow-capped peaks to sun-soaked deserts, mirroring its rich cultural mosaic. Cities like Tehran, Isfahan, Shiraz, and Yazd serve as gateways to explore this diversity, each telling its own story. Beyond its architectural marvels and natural beauty, it's the interactions with the Iranian people that leave lasting memories, as their hospitality truly distinguishes Iran.

Cultural Treasures of Iran Tours

Spanning thousands of years, Iran's history offers a peek into the cradle of civilization. Sites like the ruins of Persepolis, Isfahan's breathtaking mosques, and Shiraz's poetic gardens are gateways to the past. However, Iran's culture extends beyond its monuments; its bazaars, squares, and tea houses are alive with the vibrant essence of Iranian society.

Unmatched Hospitality

Renowned for their warmth, Iranians go above and beyond to welcome visitors, embodying a deep-seated tradition of hospitality that reflects their genuine curiosity and amiability. Tales of invitations to family meals or spontaneous guided tours of Iran exemplify the true spirit of Iranian hospitality.

Safe and Enlightening Travel with SURFIRAN

At SURFIRAN, we prioritize the safety and satisfaction of our travelers, offering guided Iran tours that ensure security and provide deep insights into Iran's culture and history. We focus on authentic experiences, allowing visitors to truly connect with the essence of Iran.

Welcoming US Citizens

Despite challenges, including the Covid era and travel restrictions, SURFIRAN has consistently welcomed American travelers since 2013. Our dedication shone especially during the travel ban, as we continued to offer warm welcomes to Americans, facilitated by our knowledgeable guides. Today, diverse groups and individual travelers from the US explore Iran's wonders with us.

Iran's Culinary Delights

Iranian cuisine is a sensory feast, reflecting the country's regional diversity. From Tehran's savory kebabs to Shiraz's rich stews, each dish narrates a story of tradition, innovation, and the joy of communal dining.

The Transformative Power of Travel

Travel has the capacity to shift perceptions, a truth most evident in Iran. By experiencing the country firsthand, travelers can move beyond stereotypes, discovering a nation eager for peace and understanding. SURFIRAN's tours are designed to encourage cultural exchanges, bridging gaps between visitors and locals.

Embark on a Journey with SURFIRAN

SURFIRAN offers a variety of tours, from group adventures to custom journeys, designed to reveal the beauty and diversity of Iran. Whether exploring ancient ruins, navigating vibrant bazaars, or experiencing the desert's serenity, SURFIRAN opens a window to the soul of Iran.

Embrace the Adventure

For those seeking adventure and cultural enrichment, Iran presents a unique opportunity. It's a chance to delve into a land rich with history and culture, connect with its people, and form personal impressions. Iran awaits with open arms, ready to share its stories and traditions.

Making Your Dream a Reality

Planning your trip to Iran has never been easier. With SURFIRAN, navigating visa processes, accommodations, and itineraries is straightforward. From obtaining your tourist visa to choosing the ideal hotel, SURFIRAN and OrientTrips provide comprehensive services to ensure a seamless and unforgettable travel experience.

Final Thoughts

Iran exemplifies the power of travel to foster understanding and peace. Through its array of experiences, Iran challenges preconceptions and unveils a world of beauty, warmth, and cultural richness. Join SURFIRAN on this journey and discover the heart of Iran, a country that defies expectations and invites you to view the world anew.

Book your journey with SURFIRAN today and embark on an extraordinary adventure. Discover peace, beauty, and ancient traditions in a welcoming land. Iran is not just a destination; it's an experience, one that promises lasting memories.

LEARN MORE

Iran Small Group tours

Iran Cultural Tours

Silk Road Tours

Iran Luxury Tours

Desert Safari

Iran Nomad Tours

Iran Expedition Tours

Iran Wildlife Tours

Ski Touring in Iran

Customize your tour of Iran

Iran Visa – Application & Requirements

#irantours #iran #traveliran #surfiran #visitiran

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surfiran · 2 months

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Introducing OrientTrips™: Explore Iran Like a Pro

We are excited to announce the launch of OrientTrips™, our new website that offers an innovative approach to travel services. As we celebrate our eighth year of operation here at SURFIRAN, we’re proud to introduce this new platform that allows you to book directly and conveniently.

Our passion is to deliver exceptional travel experiences to our customers. With our direct booking model, we can offer affordable prices without compromising on quality. We’re excited to embark on this new journey with you and look forward to providing reliable and comfortable travel services in Iran through OrientTrips.

Whether you’re planning a trip to Iran in advance or you’re already in the country, OrientTrips has got you covered. Our user-friendly platform allows you to easily select and book the services that best suit your needs and schedule. Plus, you can rest assured that you will receive reliable and comfortable services, without any hassle or worry.

Thank you for choosing OrientTrips, and we look forward to serving you on your next trip to Iran.

Contents

What does OrientTrips do?

OrientTrips offers a range of travel services to tourists and travelers worldwide, with a particular focus on catering to FIT (Free Independent Travelers) travelers. Our comprehensive range of services includes everything from accommodation and transportation to airport transfers, visas, domestic flights, train and ferry tickets, and anything else that a traveler may need while in Iran.

One of our platform’s most significant advantages is the ability to make purchases in Iran from anywhere in the world, regardless of the user’s banking system. This feature eliminates the need to carry large amounts of cash when traveling to Iran, providing an added layer of convenience and security for our users.

Travel along the Silk Road

At present, OrientTrips operates exclusively in Iran, serving as a gateway on the Silk Road for travelers visiting the country. However, in the near future, we plan to expand our network to include other key countries along the Silk Road, such as Armenia, Georgia, Uzbekistan, and Central Asian countries.

We believe that providing seamless travel experiences across these regions will enable tourists and travelers to explore the rich culture and history of this ancient trade route more easily. Our team is working tirelessly to create partnerships and collaborations with trusted service providers in each destination to ensure that our clients have access to the same level of reliable and efficient service across all of our destinations.

Effortless Booking and Payment

OrientTrips offers an effortless online booking and payment process. You can book your desired tourism services online and complete your payment securely using all major credit cards or PayPal.

At OrientTrips, we are committed to making your travel experience as seamless and convenient as possible. Our user-friendly platform and hassle-free booking process allow you to plan your trip with ease, knowing that you are getting reliable and trustworthy services.

We look forward to helping you plan your next adventure through OrientTrips!

Website: www.OrientTrips.com

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Iran with OrientTrips, where every travel detail is meticulously curated to ensure a seamless and enriching experience. Below, we delve into the essence of each service and booking option, alongside highlighting top destinations, each linked directly to their respective pages for easy access.

BOOKING

Flight: Secure your gateway to adventures across the Silk Road with our convenient flight booking service.

Hotel: Rest in comfort and luxury, choosing from our handpicked hotels, each brimming with local charm.

Airport Taxi: Begin and end your journey smoothly with our reliable airport taxi services, ensuring timely transfers.

Bus: Navigate the Silk Road with ease, connecting to its myriad cultures and landscapes by bus.

Train: Travel through time and terrain, experiencing the romance and grandeur of Silk Road railways.

Experience: Dive deep into authentic local experiences, from culinary tours to historical excursions.

Ferry: Traverse majestic waters, linking distant shores and hidden gems along the Silk Road.

SERVICES

Visa: Smooth your path to discovery with our comprehensive visa assistance, tailored to your travel needs.

Insurance: Travel with peace of mind, knowing you're covered every step of the way.

Tourist Card: Enhance your travel experience with exclusive perks and conveniences, available through our tourist card.

Sim Card: Stay connected and share your adventures as they unfold with our convenient SIM card services.

TOP DESTINATIONS

Isfahan: Marvel at Isfahan's stunning Islamic architecture and vibrant bazaars, a crossroads of culture.

Shiraz: Immerse yourself in the poetic soul of Shiraz, home to gardens, poets, and ancient ruins.

Tehran: Explore Tehran's dynamic blend of modernity and tradition, set against the Alborz Mountains.

Yazd: Wander the ancient lanes of Yazd, a desert city preserving Persian architecture and Zoroastrian heritage.

Kashan: Discover Kashan's alluring blend of architectural wonders and deeply rooted carpet weaving traditions.

Kish: Experience the tranquility of Kish, an island paradise with crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches.

Through each service and destination, OrientTrips invites you to embark on a journey not just across distances, but through histories, cultures, and stories waiting to be discovered. Visit the links to learn more and begin charting your course to the heart of the Silk Road and beyond.

#irantours #traveliran #surfiran #mustseeiran

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surfiran · 2 months

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Top 10 Persian Foods You Must Try

Discover the heart of Persian cuisine with our curated list of Top 10 Persian Foods You Must Try. From the rich flavors of kebabs to the delicate layers of saffron-infused rice, each dish offers a unique glimpse into Iran's culinary heritage. Whether you're a food lover or a curious traveler, this guide promises to take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey. Explore the diversity and richness of Persian dishes that have captivated palates for centuries. Dive into our list and prepare to be amazed by the flavors Iran has to offer.

From the earliest times, Persian cuisine has been a cornerstone of Iranian culture, symbolizing the essence of their renowned hospitality. This is evident whether in the actions of a tribesman offering rest and refreshment to a weary traveler, or an urbane city dweller presenting a sumptuous repast to his guests.

Tradition requires that guests or visitors be treated to the finest Persian food available, served in the most bountiful manner possible. Accounts of early travelers to Iran indicate that these dishes have not changed appreciably over the centuries.

Persia’s geography, history, and cultural influences, enriched by the diversity of Persian food, have shaped the variety of ingredients and cooking methods in one of the world’s oldest and most sophisticated cultures. Persia – or Iran –, despite repeated invasions, has steadfastly maintained its culture, language, and identity throughout the centuries.

The vast size of the country encompasses a wide array of local dialects, lifestyles, regional traditions and customs, not to mention an extraordinary variety of landscapes and climates.

All these are reflected in the country’s food. In the north, around the southern coast of the Caspian Sea, the landscape is lush and green and as a result of plentiful rainfall there is great diversity of fruit, vegetables and herbs.

The northern regional cuisine features simple, fresh notes of taste and aroma, and there is a preference for sweet and sour flavours, as opposed to spicy. Further south, in the provinces near the Persian Gulf, where the climate is drier, the season for fresh ingredients is much shorter and the variety available is not as great.

There is also a long tradition of trade through the sea routes with spice-rich countries like India. The resulting cuisine is more complex in taste than in the north of the country, with long notes of spices, tamarind and chillies.

Top 10 Must-Try Persian Dishes

In this post, we’ll explore the culinary delights of Iran, showcasing top Persian recipes that are a must-try during your visit. Iranian cuisine offers a diverse array of flavors and dishes, each telling a story of the country’s rich cultural heritage. From savory stews to aromatic rice dishes, here’s a glimpse into some of Iran’s national dishes that you absolutely shouldn’t miss.

1. Khoresht-e Fesenjan: A Classic Persian Food

Khoresht-e Fesenjan: a classic blend of pomegranate, walnuts, and tender meat, served with aromatic rice.

This iconic stew, a key element of Persian food, is an essential part of every Persian wedding menu. Khoresht-e fesenjan traditionally made with duck, this dish also works well with chicken or lamb.

In the north of Iran it is sometimes made with fish. It is a relatively easy khoresht to make, but it must be cooked slowly to allow the flavours to develop in the sauce. The consistency should be thick and creamy and the colour almost black. The distinctive flavour combines the nutty taste of ground walnuts with the sweet and sour flavour of pomegranate syrup.

Khoresht-e Fesenjan Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 1/2 pounds chicken legs, cut up

1 white onion, thinly sliced

1/2 pound walnuts, toasted and finely ground in a food processor

1 teaspoon salt

4 cups pomegranate juice

1/2 teaspoon cardamom (optional)

2 tablespoons sugar (optional)

2. Zereshk Polo

Zereshk Polo with Chicken: Juicy chicken meets tart barberries and saffron-infused rice, a harmony of flavors.

The sweet and sour flavour of zereshk (barberries) and the glistening ruby red berries set against the white and saffron tinged grains make this a feast for the taste buds and the eyes.

Iranian barberry rice, or Zereshk polo, a Persian food, is popular at celebrations, known for its impressive look and easy preparation for large groups. Zereshk polo is usually served with chicken.

Zereshk Polo Ingredients

1 medium onion

2-3 chicken breasts

Liquid saffron

Sugar (3-4 spoons usually is enough)

3 cups rice – soak in salt water after washing the rice

1 cup zereshk (barberries)

Salt/Pepper

Turmeric

Oil

3. Khoresht-e Ghormeh Sabzi

Khoresht-e ghormeh sabzi, a classic traditional Persian food, is sour and bursting with aromatic herbs. A popular favorite throughout Iran, this dish is a staple for festive occasions and family meals. Recipes from different regions may vary slightly; for instance, the Azerbaijani version substitutes black-eyed beans for red kidney beans.

Recipes in the south of the country add chilli and garlic, while in Shiraz potatoes are sometimes used instead of beans. The recipe here departs from tradition by adding spinach to enhance the taste and give the dish a softer texture. Fenugreek gives a very distinctive aroma and flavour.

Ghormeh Sabzi Ingredients

1 onion

4 cloves garlic

1 tsp turmeric

1 lb. stewing meat

4 dried Persian limes

1/3 cup kidney beans, dried

4 cups fresh parsley, packed

2 cups fresh cilantro, packed

1 cup fresh fenugreek

2 cups fresh chives

Salt/Pepper

Oil

4. Sabzi Polo

Sabzi Polo with Fish: Fragrant herbs in fluffy rice, paired with perfectly seasoned fish.

For the Persian New Year (Nowruz) celebrations it is traditional to serve Sabza Polo as rice dish with fish – traditionally fillets of smoked white fish from the Caspian Sea. However, fresh fish is now widely available.

In Northern Iran, the fish is marinated with lemon juice and saffron and then fried to perfection, while Southern Iranian culinary traditions favor stuffing the fish and baking it.

This rice perfectly complements Persian food, serving as the ideal accompaniment to both fish and meat dishes.

Sabzi Polo Ingredients

2 cups basmati rice

Salt

8 cloves garlic

Vegetable oil

Smidgen ground saffron

1 package frozen Sabzi Polo

2 Tbsp dried dill weed

5. Kabab Koobideh: Best Persian Food

Chelo Kabab Koobideh: Juicy, grilled ground meat kebabs, served on a bed of buttery, steamed rice.

Kebab or Kabab, especially Kabab Koobideh, stands as the famed traditional Persian food, deeply loved throughout Iran.

Kabab Koobideh is the most popular Persian food, especially among foreign travelers exploring Iranian cuisine. This dish is famous for its distinct flavors and authentic preparation. Travelers love its unique taste, making it a top choice in Persian cuisine.

In the realm of Persian food, kebabs offer an impressive variety. Take Koobideh, for instance: ground meat seasoned with minced onion, salt, and pepper. The result is a taste sensation that’s simple yet sublime. Then there’s Kebab-e Barg, featuring thinly sliced lamb or beef, enlivened with lemon juice and onion, and enriched with a saffron and butter baste.

Joojeh, the traditional chicken kebab, usually uses the whole chicken, bones included, to intensify its flavor. While American restaurants might opt for skinless chicken breasts, the authentic method involves marinating the chicken in lemon and onion, then basting it with saffron and butter. Let’s not forget Jigar, the lamb liver kebab, a true delicacy often garnished with fresh basil leaves and served with a lemon wedge.

Kabab Koobideh: Key Persian Food Ingredients

3 lbs (1360 g) Ground Beef (85% Lean)

2 Small Onions

1 Tbsp (Approximately) Salt or as preferred

1 Tsp (Approximately) Black Pepper Powder or as preferred

1 Tsp Turmeric

1 Tsp (Approximately) Ground Sumac.

1/4 Tsp Saffron

6. Khoresht-e Gheimeh

Khoresht-e Gheimeh: A rich stew of tender meat, split peas, and tangy tomatoes, topped with crispy potato fries.

Before the introduction of electric fridges, families in the colder, northern provinces of Iran such as Azerbaijan devised ingenious ways to preserve meat for consumption during the winter months.

Small pieces of meat, referred to as gheimeh, are fried with onions, seasoned with turmeric and other spices, and then stored in large earthenware vats. To protect against microorganisms, a solid layer of fat solidifies on top, sealing the contents. These vats find a home in cool, dark basements during the winter months.

Each day, a portion is scooped out to enhance the khoresht. Khoresht-e gheimeh consists of diced meat mixed with yellow split peas, dried limes, saffron, and fried potatoes.

This popular Persian food enjoys widespread popularity throughout Iran and is a staple year-round. Paired with rice, the combination of meat and pulses offers a wholesome meal. Khoresht-e Gheimeh is one of the top Persian foods in Iran.

Khoresht-e Gheimeh Ingredients

100 g/3½ oz. yellow split peas

1 medium onion

4 dried limes

300 g/11 oz. leg of lamb

50 g/2 oz. butter

4 tablespoons vegetable oil

2 teaspoons turmeric

2 teaspoons powdered dried lime

Salt and black pepper

1 litre / 1¾ pints boiling water

1 tablespoon tomato purée/tomato paste

2 tablespoons lemon juice

2 tablespoons liquid saffron

7. Tahchin: A Premier Traditional Persian Food

Tachin or Tahchin is a saffron-infused rice cake, layered with succulent chicken and a golden, crispy crust.

Tahchin, a savory Iranian rice cake within Persian cuisine and one of the best Persian meals, combines rice, yogurt, saffron, egg, and chicken fillets. You can also substitute chicken with vegetables, fish, or other meats to suit different tastes.

Tahchin consists of two distinct layers: The first is the thin Tahdig section at the pot’s bottom, which encompasses chicken fillets, saffron, and other ingredients. The second layer is the white rice. However, in many restaurants, Tahchin is primarily presented without the white rice component.

Tahchin Ingredients

600 g/1 lb. 5 oz. basmati rice

4 tablespoons salt

8 chicken pieces

1 large onion

4 tablespoons vegetable oil

½ teaspoon turmeric

3 tablespoons lemon juice

6 tablespoons liquid saffron

Salt and black pepper

500 ml/just under 1 pint water

50 g/2 oz. butter

400 g/14 oz. Greek-style full-fat/whole milk yogurt

1 egg (optional)

8. Abgoosht: A Top Local Persian Food

Abgoosht: A hearty, traditional Persian broth brimming with tender meat, chickpeas, and aromatic spices, served with fragrant bread.

Explore the array of Persian foods with a dive into the world of Abgoosht, the quintessential Iranian stew that defines comfort food. This dish is perfect for cold weather, offering a nutritious blend of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Paired with fresh herbs and yogurt, it creates a fulfilling and robust meal.

From its modest origins as a meal for the less affluent, Abgoosht has become a cherished dish for family dining. Initially prepared with basic lamb cuts and fats, it was slow-cooked in clay pots at tea houses and caravanserais, nestled in the heat of wood stove ashes.

Abgoosht’s beauty is its regional diversity. The standard preparation includes chickpeas without tomato purée, while our recipe welcomes potatoes, red kidney beans, split peas, and a splash of tomato purée for a richer flavor profile.

The preparation of Abgoosht is straightforward but requires the slow fusion of its ingredients for full flavor. For best results, prepare it a day ahead until you add the red kidney beans. When it’s time to serve, reheat the stew, adding lemon juice and saffron for an aromatic and flavorful kick. Discover how to cook this Persian culinary staple and impress at your next gathering.

Abgoosht Ingredients: Key Elements of Persian Food

3 lbs (1360 g) Beef Shank

1 Can 15 oz. (425 g) Chickpeas

1 Can 15 oz. (425 g) White Beans

3 Garlic Cloves

1 Large Onion

5 Dried Limes

2 Bunches Cilantro

5 Small Potatoes

5 Small Tomatoes

1-2 tbsp Savory

Turmeric, Black Pepper Powder, Salt

9. Mirza Ghasemi

Mirza Ghasemi: Smoky roasted eggplant, enriched with tomatoes, garlic, and eggs, a North Iranian specialty.

This mouth-watering local traditional Iranian food hails from the Northern regions of Iran, particularly Gilan province, known for its lush landscapes and culinary inventiveness. Mirza Ghasemi is a tantalizing blend of smoked eggplants, garlic, and tomatoes, graced by the flavors of turmeric and sometimes a hint of smoky saffron. This beloved vegetarian dish often appears on Iranian breakfast tables but is a treat that can be relished any time of the day.

Mirza Ghasemi Ingredients

2 large eggplants

4 cloves of garlic, minced

2 ripe tomatoes, finely chopped

1 teaspoon turmeric powder

Salt to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 eggs (optional)

A pinch of saffron (optional)

10. Baghali Polo: A Unique Persian Food

Baqhali Polo is a fluffy rice mixed with dill and broad beans, often accompanied by tender lamb shanks.

Baghali Polo, a staple in Iranian cuisine, marries the fragrance of Basmati rice with the fresh taste of dill and the satisfying bite of fava beans. This classic dish frequently pairs with succulent lamb or tender chicken, enhancing its rich profile.

Celebrated during Nowruz, Iran’s New Year festivities, Baghali Polo embodies the freshness of spring with its green-hued ingredients. This dish not only delights the palate but also represents the joy and renewal that spring brings to the Persian table.

Baghali Polo Ingredients

2 cups Basmati rice

1 cup fresh dill, finely chopped

1 cup fava beans, shelled

1 teaspoon saffron, ground and dissolved in water

Salt to taste

2 tablespoons butter or ghee

1 tablespoon olive oil

The Bottom Line

Iranian cuisine offers more than just some Persian dishes; it’s an exploration of centuries-old culinary traditions that await your discovery. Each dish tells a story of the landscapes, history, and people of Iran. With flavors and ingredients as rich and diverse as its culture, Iranian food is an adventure for the palate, promising an authentic taste of Persia’s hospitality and heritage.

Whether you’re sampling the fresh herbs and tangy flavors of the Caspian Sea’s lush shores or the bold spices of the southern coast, the experience is bound to be unforgettable. So, plan your journey, book your travel or buy your travel services via OrientTrips with SURFIRAN, and prepare to indulge in a feast of senses. This is Iranian cuisine, where every bite is a passage through time and a celebration of flavor.

#Perdisn food #Food #Iranian dishes #irantours #traveliran

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