Hot beans

This post is also available in: English فارسی العربية

Hot beans

Lobia Dagh (literally “Hot Beans”) is one of the traditional, simple, and very popular Iranian dishes made with beans (usually pinto or red beans), potatoes, crispy fried onions, tomatoes or tomato paste, and warm spices. This dish is mostly served during the colder months of the year—especially in autumn and winter—and is loved for its warming nature and delightful taste. Lobia Dagh is served both as a complete meal and sometimes as a hearty appetizer or afternoon snack in the best tourist restaurants in Rasht. It is often accompanied by fresh sangak bread, sabzi khordan (fresh herbs), pickles, or even strained yogurt.

While the preparation is easy, it requires time for the beans to cook thoroughly until tender and for the flavors to fully develop. Some variations include diced or mashed potatoes, and occasionally even mini meatballs or ground meat, to make the dish more nourishing. Lobia Dagh is rich in fiber, plant-based protein, and iron, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians or anyone seeking a hearty, meat-free yet nutritious meal. The flavor can vary from mild to bold and spicy, depending on the amount of tomato paste, garlic, chili, and other seasonings used.