Semeni

Semeni is a Central Asian and Iranian tradition celebrated during Nowruz, the Persian New Year. It is a dish made from germinated wheat, representing fertility, rebirth, and the sweetness of life. Semeni is a thick, sweet pudding, usually prepared over a long period, often involving communal cooking. The preparation itself is a ritual, typically involving women, who sing and pray while stirring the mixture.

The process begins weeks before Nowruz, when wheat grains are soaked and allowed to sprout. These sprouts are then ground and cooked in water. The resulting milky liquid is then slowly simmered for many hours, sometimes days, with flour and often other ingredients like nuts. The long, slow cooking process transforms the starch into sugars, resulting in a naturally sweet flavor without the addition of refined sugar.

Semeni holds significant symbolic value. The sprouting wheat represents new life and prosperity for the coming year. The communal preparation fosters a sense of community and togetherness. The final product is often decorated with symbolic items, such as apples, candles, and painted eggs, which are part of the Nowruz Haft-Seen (the seven S's) table setting.

Semeni is not just a dish; it's a cultural symbol deeply embedded in the traditions of Nowruz. It represents hope, renewal, and the enduring spirit of the Persian New Year.