Remarkably similar to French nougat, Gaz is perhaps one of the most unusual delicacies in the world when it comes to sweets. It has a robust pistachio flavor with a subtle green color, but good things start to happen when you take your first bite!
Iran (IMNA) - Instantly recognizable for its spongy texture and soft sweetness, this yummy pastry is made from rose water, pistachios, chopped almonds, egg whites, and sap of a special plant.
Narratives say that its history dates back to the Safavid era about 450 years ago, when a native of Isfahan named Mohammad-Ali Shekarchian, maybe by chance, added pistachios, rose water, and Gaz-angbin as sweeteners to Halvachobeh, which is a humble mixture of egg white and sugar. In 2021, the traditional method of making Gaz earned a place on Iran's national list of intangible cultural heritage.
Gaz is traditionally accompanied by tea or sherbet and is eaten as a dessert after the main course. It is also served on festive occasions such as Nowruz, the Iranian New Year.
Most Iranians have a sweet tooth, which is why countless types of sweets are produced in all corners of the country. However, the vast majority may be completely unaware that this confection is named after its original sweetener, Gaz-angebin, which is a plant sap produced from the rare honeydew delicacy of a small insect.
While in Isfahan, you may enjoy those sumptuous nougats in a genteel teahouse while taking a look at the architectural wonders of the ancient city. You may bring some Gaz home and share that sweetness with your loved ones.
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