Try Yazd’s traditional sweets:
Haji Badam and Maqut
Many believe that the term “cultural heritage” applies exclusively to historical artifacts and tangible remains left behind by previous generations. However, it’s important to recognize that our intangible heritage, encompassing cultural creations and practices of our ancestors, holds great significance as well. These intangible aspects often find their rightful place in the country’s national heritage list.
Our country’s cultural wealth encompasses both tangible and intangible treasures. The tangible aspects, such as magnificent architectural structures and captivating artworks, showcase our rich heritage. Yet, equally significant are the intangible elements that shape our culture, including melodies, festivals, traditions, delectable culinary delights, and handicrafts. Together, they form an exquisite tapestry of our cultural heritage, ISNA wrote.
Intangible heritage represents the intangible forms of culture, which may not have physical presence but are experiential and recordable. Unlike their tangible counterparts displayed in museums, they transcend physical spaces, enriching our collective heritage.
Boasting a magnificent ancient heritage, Yazd Province captivates with its abundance of historical marvels and fascinating landmarks. From tangible treasures to intangible wonders, many of them have received national and even global recognition.
Although many tangible heritage sites in Yazd are well-known, the intangible heritage of this region, which includes some significant local delicacies such as Haji Badam sweet, remains largely unknown. Nevertheless, they hold cultural value and have even received national recognition.
Haji Badam is a true gem among Yazd’s renowned pastries. Made with the finest almond flour, chickpea flour, nutmeg, and eggs, this delicacy boasts extraordinary nutritional value. But that’s not all. Its exquisite flavor and unparalleled distinction truly make it a pastry like no other.
Haji Badam has a great reputation among families due to its delicious taste and small size. It is also baked in some other cities of Iran like Kashan and Saveh. However, the fascinating history of this pastry dates back to Yazd itself, where it originated and became a global brand.
According to research, almond is rich in unsaturated fats and nutritious proteins, making it a beneficial and health-promoting element. Almonds also contain a significant amount of fatty acids that help soften the skin. Due to its high content of vitamin E, almond has anti-aging properties and helps prevent the formation of wrinkles.
On the other hand, nutmeg is widely recognized for its remarkable therapeutic effects in alleviating various types of pain. In traditional medicine, the nutmeg fruit and its oil are extensively utilized to effectively address ailments associated with the nervous and digestive systems.
Moreover, one of the hidden gems of Yazd culinary delights is a dessert called Maqut. This mouthwatering treat is not only known for its exquisite taste, but it also boasts a captivating aroma and vibrant colors. Moreover, Maqut is incredibly nourishing and promotes health. Indulging in this heavenly dessert will surely leave you satisfied and energized.
This exquisite Yazdi dessert is truly one-of-a-kind; it is typically enjoyed during the colder seasons, as it is not usually prepared during the hot summer days. Its production spans from mid-autumn to mid-winter, creating a delightful treat for your taste buds.
The yummy ingredients of this delightful dessert include starch, water, fragrant rosewater, and melted Persian sugar candy. The cooking method is easy. First, we mix the starch with a cup of cold water, allowing the starch to dissolve completely in the water. Next, we carefully pour the dissolved starch into boiling water and give it a gentle stir, ensuring a perfect blend of flavors without any lumps formed.
Then, we boil all the ingredients for about 10 minutes and stir them regularly until it reaches the desired thickness. We pour the prepared mixture into a bowl and place it in the refrigerator. Once it sets, we add rosewater and musk.