Make Authentic Bastani Sonnati in 6 Steps

Update Date: October 2, 2024

Are you one of the fans of ice cream? Have you ever tasted Bastani Sonnati? If yes, what was its taste? Did you like it? In this article we want to give you an authentic recipe for Iran’s popular saffron ice cream which is well-known worldwide. If you enjoy ice cream and the unique taste of saffron you cannot close your eyes on Bastani Sonnati. This traditional Persian ice cream has been tickling taste buds of various generations for centuries and enjoys rich flavor and taste.

In this article we will focus on the history of Bastani Sonnati, its ingredients, and the preparation method. So if you want to learn how to make this tasty Persian dessert, please scroll down to find the minute explanation of this savory Iranian ice cream.

What is Bastani Sonnati?

Bastani Sonnati is a traditional Persian ice cream enjoyed in Iran for centuries. “Bastani Sonnati” literally means “traditional ice cream” in Farsi. It is typically made with a combination of milk, cream, sugar, and saffron, which gives it a distinctive yellow color and a slightly floral taste. 

This delicious ice cream is often served between two thin wafers or in a cone, and it is sometimes garnished with additional pistachios or saffron. It is a beloved dessert in Iranian cuisine and an essential part of Persian culinary heritage.

Bastani Sonnati History

This Iranian ice cream has a long and rich history in Iran, dating back to at least the Safavid dynasty (1501-1722). At that time, ice cream was a luxury reserved for the wealthy, as ice was a rare commodity that had to be brought down from the mountains.

Over time, Bastani Sonnati became more widely available and accessible to people from all walks of life. It became a popular Persian dessert during religious festivals, weddings, and other special occasions. It is still served as a symbol of Iranian hospitality and generosity.

In addition to its historical significance, Bastani Sonnati is an essential cultural symbol in Iran. It is considered a symbol of national pride and a way to connect with Iran’s rich cultural heritage. This tasty ice cream is more than just a dessert in Iran; it is a cultural icon representing the Iranian people’s history, traditions, and hospitality. 

It is often offered to guests as a sign of welcome and respect, and sharing a bowl of Bastani Sonnati is seen as a way to bond and strengthen relationships.

Bastani Sonnati Ingredients

Bastani Sonnati ingredients are:

• Milk;
• Cream;
• Sugar;
• Saffron;
• Pistachios;
• Rose water;
• Sometimes frozen clotted cream. 

These ingredients are combined to make a creamy base for the ice cream. Saffron, a red Persian spice commonly used in Persian cuisine, gives ice cream its distinctive yellow color and a slightly floral taste.

How to make Bastani Sonnati at home?

Here is an easy-to-follow Bastani Sonnati recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups heavy cream;
• 2 cups whole milk;
• 1 cup sugar;
• 1/2 tsp ground saffron;
• 1 tbsp rose water;
• 1/2 cup chopped pistachios (optional).

Instructions:

1. Combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar in a large saucepan. Heat the mixture, stirring occasionally, to see the sugar has dissolved and the ice cream mixture is hot but not boiling;
2. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir saffron and rose water in the ground. Let the mixture cool to room temperature;
3. Once the ice cream mixture has cooled, pour it into a large bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Place the bowl in the freezer and let it freeze for about 2 hours or until it is partially frozen;
4. Remove the bowl from the freezer and use an electric mixer to beat the Persian ice cream mixture to have a creamy texture. Return the mixture to the freezer and let it freeze for an additional 2 hours;
5. Repeat step 4, beating the mixture every 2 hours until it is fully frozen and has a smooth and creamy texture;
6. Once the Iranian ice cream is frozen, scoop it into bowls and garnish with chopped pistachios.

This recipe makes about six servings of Bastani Sonnati (Bastani zaferani). You can adjust the amount of saffron and rose water to your taste and experiment with different garnishes, such as dried fruit or chocolate chips. Enjoy!

Is there a vegan version of Bastani Sonnati?

Yes, there are vegan versions of Bastani Sonnati made without animal products. If you want to make this Persian ice cream at home, it is the recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups unsweetened almond milk:
• 2 cups full-fat coconut milk:
• 1 cup granulated sugar;
• 1/2 tsp ground saffron;
• 1 tbsp rose water;
• 1/2 cup chopped pistachios (optional).

Instructions:

1. Combine almond, coconut, and sugar in a large saucepan. Heat the mixture, stirring occasionally, and wait to see if the sugar has disappeared and the mixture is hot but not boiling;
2. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir saffron and rose water in the ground. Let the mixture cool to room temperature;
3. Once the mixture has cooled, transfer it into a giant bowl and cover it. Place the bowl in the freezer and let it freeze for about 2 hours or until it is partially frozen;
4. Remove the bowl from the freezer and use an electric mixer to beat the ice cream mixture until it is smooth and creamy. Return the mixture to the freezer and let it freeze for an additional 2 hours;
5. Repeat step 4, beating the mixture every 2 hours until it is fully frozen and has a smooth and creamy texture;
6. Once the ice cream is frozen, please take it to bowls and garnish with chopped pistachios.

This vegan Bastani Sonnati replaces the heavy cream and whole milk with almond and coconut milk. It still has the same delicate flavor profile and creamy texture as the traditional recipe, making it a delicious and vegan-friendly alternative.

Are there any specific rituals or customs associated with serving Bastani Sonnati?

Yes, there are some specific rituals and customs associated with serving this Iranian ice cream, including:

• Serving Bastani Sonnati as a sign of hospitality: As mentioned earlier, offering guests a bowl of ice cream is considered a sign of hospitality in Iranian culture. It is a way to show respect and welcome guests into one’s home;
• Sharing a bowl of Bastani Sonnati: In Iran, it is common for people to share a bowl of Iranian ice cream with others. The bowl is typically passed around the table, with each person taking a scoop or two before passing it on to the next person. This tradition is seen as a way to bond and connect with others;
• During the sweltering summer days, Iranians welcome guests with a tasty bowl of ice cream.

How is Bastani Sonnati traditionally served and enjoyed in Persian culture?

Iranian ice cream is traditionally served and enjoyed in various ways in Persian culture, including:

1. In a cone: The best Iranian ice cream is often served in a crispy wafer cone, similar to a waffle cone. The cone is usually made from thin sheets of bread rolled into a cone shape and baked until crispy. The ice cream is then scooped into the cone and topped with garnishes such as pistachios and saffron;
2. Between two wafers: Another traditional way to serve saffron ice cream is between two thin wafers. The wafers are similar to the ones used in ice cream sandwiches and provide a nice creamy texture;
3. With fruit: Sometimes, it is served with fresh fruit, such as sliced bananas, pineapples, strawberries, or pomegranate seeds. It provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the ice cream;
4. In a bowl: Bastani Sonati can also be served in a bowl, either on its own or with toppings such as crushed pistachios, saffron, or rose petals.

Persian ice cream is traditionally enjoyed slowly, savoring each bite regardless of how it is served. It is often enjoyed as a dessert after a meal or as a refreshing treat on a hot summer day.

How does Bastani Sonnati differ from other types of ice cream worldwide?

This Persian ice cream, differs from other types of ice cream around the world in a few ways:

1. Firstly, it has a unique flavor profile due to using saffron and rose water. These ingredients give the ice cream a delicate floral flavor that is not found in other types of ice cream;
2. Secondly, Bastani Sonnati has a different texture than other types of ice cream. It is typically denser and creamier than Western-style ice cream, which is often lighter and has a higher air content;
3. Thirdly, it is often served with traditional garnishes such as pistachios and saffron, which are not typically found in other types of ice cream. These garnishes not only add flavor but also create a beautiful and colorful presentation;
4. Finally, preparing this Iranian ice cream involves excellent skill and attention to detail. Making the ice cream involves cooking the milk and cream, adding the saffron and rose water, and then freezing the mixture in a container. The result is a dessert that is rich, flavorful, and steeped in tradition.

Are there any unique variations of Bastani Sonnati specific to certain regions or cities in Iran?

Yes, some unique variations that are specific to certain regions or cities in Iran. Here are a few examples:

• Faloodeh Bastani: This popular variation of Iranian ice cream originated in Shiraz, a city in southern Iran. It consists of thin noodles made from starch, which are served in a cold sweet syrup and topped with a scoop of Bastani Sonnati;
• Akbar Mashti: This variation of Bastani Sonnati originated in Tehran and is named after its creator, Akbar Mashti. This saffron ice cream ingredients are a combination of vanilla and saffron flavors and is often served with chunks of frozen cream and pistachios;
• Saffron and Honey Bastani: This is a variation of Iranian ice cream that is popular in the city of Mashhad. It is made by mixing saffron and honey into the ice cream mixture, giving it a unique, sweet, and floral flavor.

These are just a few examples of the unique variations of Persian ice cream found in different regions of Iran. Each variation has its distinct flavor and cultural significance, making Bastani Sonnati a diverse and beloved dessert throughout the country.

What steps are being taken to preserve the traditional preparation methods of Bastani Sonnati?

Several steps are being taken to preserve the traditional preparation methods of Persian ice cream. Here are a few examples:

• Cultural organizations: Several cultural organizations in Iran are dedicated to preserving and promoting Iranian culinary traditions, including Bastani Sonnati. These organizations work to document traditional recipes and preparation methods and to educate the public about the importance of preserving these traditions;
• Training programs: Some ice cream makers in Iran offer training programs to teach younger generations the traditional methods of making Bastani Sonnati. These programs often involve apprenticeships or internships, where young people can learn from experienced ice cream makers and gain hands-on experience in the craft;
• Government support: The Iranian government has recognized the cultural and economic importance of Bastani Sonnati and has taken steps to support its preservation. For example, the government has designated Bastani Sonnati as a national heritage dessert and has provided funding for research and development of traditional ice cream production methods;
• Social media: Social media platforms have become famous for people to share recipes and cooking techniques, including for Bastani Sonnati. Many people in Iran and worldwide use social media to share traditional recipes and raise awareness about preserving cultural, culinary traditions.

Overall, preserving traditional preparation methods for Bastani Sonnati is an ongoing effort involving education, government support, and public awareness. Through these efforts, it is hoped that the rich cultural heritage of Bastani Sonnati will be preserved for future generations to enjoy.

What are the misconceptions about Bastani Sonnati?

People may have a few common myths or misconceptions about Bastani Sonnati. Here are a few examples:

1. Bastani Sonnati is the same as Western-style ice cream: While Bastani Sonnati and Western-style ice cream fall under the category of frozen desserts, they are pretty different in flavor and texture. Bastani Sonnati is typically denser and creamier than Western-style ice cream and often has a unique flavor profile due to the use of saffron and rose water;
2. Bastani Sonnati is unhealthy: While this tasty Iranian ice cream is a rich and indulgent dessert, it is not necessarily unhealthy. It can be made with natural ingredients such as milk, cream, and saffron;
3. Bastani Sonnati is only eaten on special occasions: While Bastani Sonnati is undoubtedly a popular dessert for special occasions such as weddings and religious festivals, it is also commonly enjoyed as a refreshing treat on a burning summer day or as a dessert after a meal;
4. Bastani Sonnati is only found in Iran: While Bastani Sonnati is undoubtedly a beloved dessert in Iran, it is also found in other parts of the world with Iranian populations, such as the United States, Canada, and Europe.

While Bastani Sonnati may be shrouded in myth and misconception, it remains a delicious and culturally significant dessert that people worldwide enjoy.

Are there any health benefits to using saffron in Bastani Sonnati?

Yes, saffron has been associated with several potential health benefits, which may make it a valuable ingredient in Bastani Sonnati. Here are some examples:

1. Antioxidant properties: Saffron contains several compounds with antioxidant benefits protecting the body against oxidative stress and inflammation;
2. Mood regulation: Saffron has been shown to have mood-regulating properties and may help treat mild to moderate depression and anxiety;
3. Improved cognitive function: Some studies proved that saffron may improve cognitive function, such as memory, attention, and learning ability;
4. Lowered risk of heart disease: Saffron has been shown to have cholesterol-lowering properties, which may help reduce the risk of heart disease;
5. Anti-cancer potential: Some preliminary studies have suggested that saffron may have anti-cancer properties, although more research is needed in this area.

While the health benefits of saffron are promising, it is essential to note that these benefits have been demonstrated in studies using saffron supplements rather than saffron used in cooking. Nonetheless, using saffron in Bastani Sonnati may add a unique flavor and potential health benefits to this delicious dessert. However, it is essential to consume saffron in moderation, as high doses can be toxic.

Bastani Sonnati calories

The number of calories in Bastani Sonnati can vary depending on the ice cream’s recipe and the serving size. However, on average, a serving of Bastani Sonnati (approximately 1/2 cup or 100 grams) contains around 200-300 calories. It varies depending on the ingredients, such as the amount of sugar or cream. 

Additionally, any toppings or garnishes added to the ice cream, such as nuts or syrups, can increase the calorie count. While Bastani Sonnati can be enjoyed as an occasional treat, it is essential to consume it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Experience the Rich Flavors of Iran with Bastani Sonnati

Bastani Sonnati is a beloved dessert representing Iran’s rich culinary heritage. Its creamy texture and delicate floral flavors make it a dessert to delight the senses. If you want to experience the full range of Persian cuisine, including traditional dishes and desserts, look no further than our Persian cookbook! 

Our cookbook features dozens of authentic recipes from Iran, including appetizers, entrees, and desserts. With step-by-step instructions and beautiful photographs, our cookbook is the perfect way to bring the flavors of Iran into your kitchen. So don’t kill time to explore the delicious world of Persian cuisine!

Bastani Sonnati A Gift from Iran

In conclusion, Bastani Sonnati is a dessert that is steeped in tradition and beloved by people all over the world. Its unique flavor profile, creamy texture, and beautiful presentation make it a dessert that is sure to please.

In this article, we tried to introduce another delicious thing from Persian cuisine, taking you to the world of tastes and colors. If you have any questions about Iranian food culture or learning the Persian language, please feel free to contact us. We are available seven days s week.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is Bastani Sonnati?

Bastani Sonnati is a traditional Iranian ice cream typically made with milk, cream, sugar, saffron, and rose water. It is known for its creamy texture and delicate floral flavors.

How is Bastani Sonnati different from other types of ice cream?

Bastani Sonnati is typically denser and creamier than other types of ice cream and often has a unique flavor profile due to the use of saffron and rose water. It is also traditionally made using a wooden paddle to mix the ice cream, which gives it a distinct texture.

What is the history of Bastani Sonnati?

Bastani Sonnati has a long history in Iran, dating back to ancient times. It was traditionally made using ice brought down from the mountains and stored in underground chambers for use in the hot summer months.

Is Bastani Sonnati gluten-free?

Bastani Sonnati is typically gluten-free, containing no wheat or other gluten-containing ingredients. However, it is always best to check the ingredients list.

Where can I buy Bastani Sonnati?

Bastani Sonnati can be found in many Iranian ice cream parlors and restaurants in Iran and other parts of the world with Iranian populations. It can also be made at home using traditional recipes.

Can Bastani Sonnati be made in different flavors?

It can be made in various flavors, including chocolate, mango, and green tea. However, traditional flavors like saffron and rose water are still the most popular.

Is Bastani Sonnati a healthy dessert?

Bastani Sonnati is undoubtedly a rich and indulgent dessert, but it can be made with natural ingredients such as milk, cream, and saffron. 

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