A Flavorful Beginning to Every Persian Meal
Every memorable meal starts with the perfect appetizer, and in Persian cuisine, these small plates are full of flavor, color, and tradition. At Shamshiri Persian Restaurant in Glendale, we believe that appetizers should do more than just open your appetite — they should tell the story of a culture built on hospitality and balance. From creamy Mast-o-Khiar to stuffed Dolmeh, Persian appetizers offer a delicious glimpse into the heart of Middle Eastern flavor.
The Art of Persian Appetizers
Persian starters, known as “mazzeh,” are designed for sharing. They create a communal experience, encouraging conversation and connection long before the main course arrives. Each dish blends herbs, spices, and textures that awaken the senses — a perfect introduction to what’s to come.
At Shamshiri, our most popular appetizers showcase the diversity of Persian cooking, where simplicity meets sophistication.
Mast-o-Khiar: Cool, Creamy, and Refreshing
This beloved dish is a refreshing blend of yogurt, cucumber, mint, and a hint of garlic. Light yet flavorful, Mast-o-Khiar is often compared to Greek tzatziki but carries a uniquely Persian twist with its use of dried rose petals and subtle spices.
Perfect for cooling your palate between bites of kabob or stew, this appetizer is both healthy and comforting, embodying the balance Persian cuisine is known for.
Dolmeh: The Little Parcels of Joy
If there’s one dish that surprises first-timers, it’s Dolmeh — grape leaves stuffed with a fragrant mix of rice, herbs, and sometimes ground meat. Every bite bursts with flavor, offering a balance of tangy, savory, and slightly sweet notes.
At Shamshiri, our Dolmeh is made using a traditional family recipe, slow-cooked to perfection and served warm or cold depending on the season.
Kashk-e-Bademjan: A Persian Classic
Few Persian appetizers capture the depth of flavor like Kashk-e-Bademjan, a creamy eggplant dip topped with caramelized onions, garlic, and kashk (a tangy whey sauce). Smooth, smoky, and layered with textures, it’s a favorite among locals in Glendale and beyond.
Pair it with lavash bread, and you’ll instantly understand why it’s one of the most requested starters on our menu.
Sabzi Khordan: Fresh Herbs for the Soul
Sometimes simplicity says it all. Sabzi Khordan — a basket of fresh herbs like basil, parsley, mint, and tarragon — represents renewal and vitality. Served with radishes, walnuts, and feta, it’s a staple of Persian tables and the perfect accompaniment to any dish.
Experience the Variety
From Glendale to neighboring cities like Burbank, Pasadena, Los Angeles, and San Fernando, food lovers can discover these Persian appetizers right here at Shamshiri. Every dish is crafted with care, using the freshest ingredients and authentic techniques passed down through generations.
Want to explore all the areas we serve? Visit our Locations and find out where you can enjoy Shamshiri’s signature appetizers and dishes near you.
Q&A: Persian Appetizers Explained
Q: What does “Mast-o-Khiar” mean?
A: It literally translates to “yogurt and cucumber,” a cooling side dish found on nearly every Persian table.
Q: Are Persian appetizers vegetarian?
A: Many are! Dishes like Mast-o-Khiar, Kashk-e-Bademjan, and Sabzi Khordan are naturally vegetarian and full of fresh, wholesome ingredients.
Q: Which appetizer should I try first?
A: Start with Mast-o-Khiar or Kashk-e-Bademjan — both are creamy, flavorful, and perfect introductions to Persian cuisine.
Q: Can I order these appetizers for takeout?
A: Yes, all our appetizers are available for takeout or delivery, so you can enjoy a Persian feast at home.
Q: What’s the difference between Dolmeh and other stuffed grape leaves?
A: Persian Dolmeh uses distinct spices, herbs, and sometimes kashk, giving it a unique balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Start Your Persian Feast the Right Way
Every great meal begins with an unforgettable first bite — and in Persian cuisine, that bite is full of history, passion, and flavor.
At Shamshiri Persian Restaurant in Glendale, our appetizers are crafted to set the tone for your dining experience. Whether you’re dining in or ordering for delivery, our Mast-o-Khiar, Dolmeh, and Kashk-e-Bademjan are ready to make your day more delicious.
👉 Visit Shamshiri Glendale or order online to discover why our Persian appetizers are the talk of Southern California.
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