Pardiz

In Pardiz, what Darling-Gansser does is show how seamlessly Persian food fits with trends of today: flourishing food markets; the primacy of local ingredients; the health-giving aspects of vegetable-centric dishes; and the joys of a shared table. The latter is a theme in her book - and in her life.

In her choice of recipes, she gives a sense of the diversity of Persian food - whether it is served in a restaurant, eaten at home, prepared for a picnic, or enjoyed on the street, the setting can determine what is served. Ultimately, she focuses on recipes that are not too complicated or time consuming - recognising the great virtue that is simplicity. And encouraging readers to embrace the sociability that goes with the food as much as the food itself.