Kaleh Pacheh, a traditional Persian dish, is not for the faint of heart. Literally translating to “head and hoof,” this hearty delicacy is made from the boiled heads and hooves of sheep or cows. While it may sound unusual to some, Kaleh Pacheh holds a special place in Persian cuisine.

The preparation process involves slow-cooking the heads and hooves for several hours with spices like turmeric, garlic, and bay leaves. This results in tender meat that falls off the bone and a flavorful broth that is rich in collagen.

In Iran, Kaleh Pacheh is typically enjoyed as a breakfast dish on weekends or special occasions. It is often served with freshly baked bread, herbs such as mint and basil, pickles, and radishes. The combination of textures and flavors creates a unique culinary experience.

While not everyone may be adventurous enough to try Kaleh Pacheh, those who do are rewarded with an authentic taste of Persian culture. So if you find yourself in Reseda CA craving something different and want to explore Persian cuisine beyond kebabs (which we’ll get to next!), give Kaleh Pacheh a try!