Fesenjan – Sauteed Ground Walnuts in Pomegranate Sauce with Chicken and Rice

Shaherzad is one of the many Persian restaurants on Westwood boulevard and like the others I’ve been to, it’s great for a tasty, quick and filling lunch or a nice leisurely dinner.

But I don’t live near Westwood, so screw dinner. Let’s talk lunch!

Whether you order a Kabob, a Koobideh or a Stew, you’ll be guaranteed a plate of rice that could feed an army of Kardashians. No one will leave hungry. Not even Khloe.

During the day, you can order half size orders (which are plenty for 4 peeps to share) of Hummus and the super tasty Shirazi salad to accompany the incredible flatbread you are given to nosh on.

The Fesenjan stew (walnuts and pomegranates) was both rich and tart, a nice accompaniment to the chicken and rice. It’s one of my favorite dishes of all time and Shaherzad does it proud.

The Chicken Koobideh was very solid, no complaints. I think I might prefer Beef Koobideh, however. Make a note of that, if you’re keeping track of my likes and dislikes for any reason.

Stalker.

I really loved the Shirin Polo, which is a big pile of that super long grain rice tossed with orange peel, pistachios, almonds, rosewater and saffron. Unique and festive. Just a touch on the sweet side, really goes well with any meat.

Shaherzad is larger and has a more casual decor than the other gals on Westwood, which probably makes it a more ideal lunch spot rather than dinner.

Shirazi Salad – Cucumbers, Tomatoes. Cilantro with Lime and Olive Oil

Hummus

Barley Soup

Fesenjan – Sauteed Ground Walnuts in Pomegranate Sauce with Chicken

Shirin Polo – Orange peels, pistachios, almonds, saffron and rosewater mixed with rice.

Chicken Koobideh – Seasoned ground chicken rolled around skewers