Sheep Neck Meat

500 grams lamb neck, teriyaki sauce, crispy rice (Tahdig)

Chelo-ye Gerdan (Lamb Neck with Rice) is one of the most authentic and delicious Iranian dishes, especially cherished among lovers of traditional and ceremonial foods. This dish is made from lamb neck, which is slowly cooked with patience in a blend of onions, saffron, cinnamon, turmeric, and other aromatic spices until it becomes fully cooked, tender, and flavorful. Due to the natural bones and fat in the neck, after several hours of slow cooking, it develops a rich, tender, and very pleasant taste that, together with chelo (white, fragrant Iranian rice), offers a royal experience.

Chelo-ye Gerdan is usually served at the best tourist restaurant in Rasht alongside golden crispy rice (tahdig), barberries, fresh herbs, pickles, or Shirazi salad. It is among the most popular dishes at formal ceremonies, gatherings, and traditional restaurants. The unique taste of neck meat, infused with Iranian spices and combined with buttery or saffron rice, creates a memorable flavor. This dish symbolizes patience in Iranian cooking, as its slow and long cooking process is the key secret to its tenderness and deliciousness.