It is incredible to watch how nature goes through cycles of change each season – a process involving rebirth, renewal and reawakening. Persian New Year, or Nowruz, which literally translates to ‘New Day’, celebrates such evolution. Celebrating the spring equinox, it welcomes the new season and brings with it hopes of rejuvenation, mindfulness, positivity and prosperity.
Laughter, music, family and especially good food – these are the fond memories I have when I think of Nowruz.
In the weeks leading up to it, I prepare for our celebrations following the same ancestral rituals practised by my mother, grandmother and many generations before them. Activities include cleaning the house from top to bottom to bless our home with positive energy; sprouting lentil seeds for my ‘Sofreh Haft-Seen’ and buying new clothes.
The ‘Sofreh Haft-Seen’ is a symbolic table set to embrace the New Year. Seven items that begin with the letter ‘S’ are set on the sofreh, including: somagh (sumac) to represent light and the colour of the sunrise; serkeh (vinegar) for age and patience; samanu (a sweetmeat made of germinated wheat) for affluence, fertility and the sweetness of life; sabzi (lentils growing in a dish) for rebirth; seeb (apple) for health and beauty; seer (garlic) for medicine and health; and senjed (dried lotus fruit) for love. In addition to these items, there is a mirror to symbolise self-reflection; a goldfish in a bowl to represent movement and life; candles to represent light; painted eggs for fertility; and coins for wealth and prosperity.
In preparation for this Nowruz, I’ve allowed myself time to really think about the last 12 months. We have all faced challenges (some far more difficult than others) and had to accept unfamiliar experiences as the new norm. A year ago, I would have been mortified if I had walked into a supermarket with a mask on. It used to be unheard of for my husband to work from home, yet today it is weird when he tells me he is heading to the office. And when I watch shows on Netflix, I catch myself wondering why people aren’t socially distancing.
Looking at how nature and the seasons evolve is a good reminder that collectively we are part of a much bigger process which is under constant transition. It’s our role to adapt and grow. Nowruz is a personal reminder that I need to be grateful for all that it represents.
Each ingredient used to make the kookoo sabzi I have shared is a mindful reminder of life and all its blessings. Traditionally, it is served with sabzi polo (mixed herb rice) and mahi (fried fish) on Nowruz day. I have prepared them in small cupcake size portions to be served as part of a welcoming sharing platter which I see as symbolic of family, love and community. I hope you enjoy these moreish snacks as part of your celebratory spread.
Wishing you and your family a Happy Nowruz!
