Persian/Iranian culture?

Question

My Iranian friend has invited me to her house for dinner ... I was wondering if it is a custom to take a gift for the family? I'm pakistani, and i know that in our culture its usually nice to take something to the house, like sweets...

What should i take to their house? Maybe i should go to an iranian store and buy some iranian sweets?

Answer 1

Most answers here are perfect. Chocolate, ice cream or a bouquet of flowers are good solid choices. I wish you a happy time.

Answer 2

yes you should take something and iranian sweets sounds good, if you can ask for zouloubeya, gaz, sohan, or something like that

Answer 3

Take a rose flower.

Answer 4

There is a simple way to show your respect.

During hot seasons take ice-cream or something as a present...

During cold seasons chocolate or pastries are so nice...

Best  :)

Answer 5

Very well said to all above posters.

Nothing i could add, so you've got your choice to make.

Answer 6

it is lovely question.

yes we do it,but it is not rule.

yes it is commen to take sweet when u go there for the first time or but u can take a kind of flower.

yes in hot day take ice cream.

Answer 7

I am very involved in the Persian culture.  My wife is from Iran and just came back from visiting her family in Tehran last week.  She was there for a month.

We usually always take something when invited as it appears not only to be custom, but also a pollite way of showing your appreciation.   Most american iranians would appreciate something like See's Candy as opposed to some iranian treats.  I would also consider an ice cream cake and you can never go wrong by bringing Mom home some nice Saffron.

Good luck

Answer 8

I agree with the above poster. In addition to his ideas about the candies, cake, and saffron, Persians also appreciate flowers. Most Persians have or had their own flower gardens in Iran. A large mixed bouquet that exudes elegance would be perfect.

I also agree with the candy idea. Assorted chocolates are  fine, but try to get a good brand name like Lindt or Godiva OR if you have time to find a pastry shop, you can pick up unique edibles like petit fours, mini cakes, and other yummy delights sure to win them over.