Ardabil is one of the most picturesque regions in Iran, with a melting pot of culinary influences from Azerbaijan, Turkey and Iran. Sule, our guest chef from the area who cooked with us through our connection with Bristol Refugee Rights, presented a few of her favourite dishes that are not only popular in Ardabil but also throughout the whole of Iran. We begin with some mushroom filled pastries known as ghotab, served here with a rich tomato sauce. Next, marinated grilled lamb with saffron rice, yogurt sauce and a simple salad. Finally for dessert, Iran’s answer to rice pudding, sholezard - subtly flavoured with cinnamon and rose.