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History of Chanjeh Lari
Chanjeh Lari is one of the most authentic and popular meat dishes of southern Iran, especially in the Larestan region of Fars province. It is a type of kebab (Chenjeh) that is marinated with special Lari-style spices and methods, giving it a unique, aromatic, and delicious flavor.
In the Lari style, the meat is usually marinated for several hours in a mixture of:
Grated onion
Local yogurt or Doogh (a fermented yogurt drink)
Brewed saffron
Salt and pepper
Sometimes a bit of lemon juice or sour orange juice
Then it’s grilled over charcoal until it remains soft, tender, and juicy.
Cultural Roots
Lari cuisine, influenced by the geographical location of Lar, reflects elements of southern Iranian food culture as well as that of the Persian Gulf countries. One of the key characteristics of this regional cuisine is the simplicity of ingredients combined with careful marination and precise cooking techniques.
Chanjeh Lari is typically served at gatherings and special occasions, and it holds a special place particularly in traditional and luxury restaurants that offer authentic Persian dishes.
Chanje Lari
Ingredients of Chanjeh Lari
The secret behind the deliciousness of Chanjeh Lari isn’t just the choice of meat — it lies in its unique marinade and special blend that make the meat tender, soft, and aromatic.
Ingredients:
Lamb or veal tenderloin (fresh and sinew-free)
Full-fat yogurt (to tenderize the meat)
Grated or thinly sliced onion (adds flavor and softness)
Brewed saffron (for its amazing color and aroma)
Crushed garlic (optional, for a stronger taste)
Fresh lemon juice or a bit of white vinegar
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Olive oil or melted butter (to prevent the meat from drying during grilling)
The Secret Behind Chanjeh Lari’s Unique Flavor
- Long marination: The meat should be marinated for at least 4 to 6 hours (preferably overnight) in the fridge to fully absorb the flavors.
- Using premium Iranian saffron: High-quality brewed saffron gives the meat a lasting and luxurious aroma.
- Yogurt as a natural tenderizer: The enzymes in yogurt help make the Chanjeh Lari meat perfectly tender and juicy.
- Grilling over natural charcoal: Charcoal fire gives the meat a delicious smoky flavor that nothing else can match!
Cooking and Serving Style of Chanjeh Lari
Chanjeh Lari isn’t just a kebab; it’s a complete experience of flavor, aroma, and authenticity.
Why is Charcoal Grilling the Best Option?
Nothing completes the magic of Chanjeh Lari like charcoal fire. Charcoal grilling makes it so that:
The surface of the meat gets slightly crispy, while the inside stays tender and juicy.
The natural smoky aroma of the charcoal blends with saffron and the Lari marinade to create an unforgettable flavor.
A sense of Iranian authenticity and tradition is delivered to the customer — with a luxurious taste.
Grilling with industrial grills or ovens is possible, but that true “wow factor” of Chanjeh Lari only comes to life over real charcoal!
What Side Dishes Go Well with Chanjeh Lari?
Chanjeh Lari reaches its peak of flavor when served in the traditional style with classic Persian side dishes:
🍚 Saffron Persian rice with crispy Tahdig or simple steamed rice
🥬 Fresh herbs (basil, leek, garden cress, radish)
🫓 Warm Sangak bread or traditional tandoori-style bread
🍋 Fresh sumac for added tanginess
🧄 Homemade shallot yogurt (Mast-o-Mosir) or strained yogurt
🫒 Pickled olives or pickled cucumbers for a flavor contrast
🍅 And of course, grilled tomatoes and bell peppers served alongside the skewer
Imagine yourself in the heart of Dubai, where modernity blends seamlessly with tradition. You step into a restaurant where the aroma of saffron and charcoal smoke instantly transports you to the soul of Iran… to a place like Leiva Dubai.
Here, Chanjeh Lari isn’t just a dish — it’s a sensory journey. From the delicate marination with yogurt and saffron to the moment the hot skewers are lifted off the coals and served with saffron Persian rice and fresh Sangak bread.
With soft lighting, live traditional music, and thoughtfully arranged tables, every bite of Chanjeh Lari at Leiva becomes a luxurious and authentic Iranian experience.
