So, last week, C & I went to Nick Market in Albany to get what we need for Nowrooz. Most of the Persian markets stay open pretty late this time of year, and even at 7:40, the place was full (this is not a large shop to begin with).
We like Nick because of the proprietor - he's always smiling, has a joke to tell, a story to share and a bit of good-hearted teasing for C.
We picked up all the provisions for ash-e resht-e, sabzi polo-mahi, lots of sweets plus the elements of our haft-sinn.
Nick also has a nice little deli counter with cotlet (patties of beef, lamb, potato and spices), salad olivieh (a Russian potato/egg/chicken/pea salad), panir (feta cheese, both Bulgarian and French - our preference) and more. Invariably, when we go, we pick up some goodies for that night's dinner.
This time, it was cotlet, panir, lavash bread, and herbs - tarragon, cilantro, green onion and basil. Called noon-o-paneer-o-sabzi, this is a quintessential Persian appetizer or light meal.
Take a square of lavash or pita bread, put a small chunk of cheese on it, then lay atop it whatever combination of aforementioned herbs you please.
Take a bite, then a bite of radish or walnut, if you wish. A sip of ice cold vodka washes it down quite nicely.
