
Persian Herb Frittata (Kuku Sabzi / کوکو سبزی)
Kuku Sabzi is a beloved Persian herb frittata, often served during Nowruz (Persian New Year) or as a light meal. It's packed with an abundance of fresh herbs, mixed with eggs and a hint of warming spices, creating a vibrant green, flavorful, and incredibly aromatic dish that's both savory and subtly sweet from the herbs.
Ingredients
- 1Large Eggs6 large eggs
- 2Fresh Parsley1 cup (packed) fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 3Fresh Cilantro1 cup (packed) fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 4Fresh Dill1/2 cup (packed) fresh dill, finely chopped
- 5Fresh Chives or Scallions1/2 cup (packed) fresh chives or green parts of scallions, finely chopped
- 6Walnuts1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional, but traditional)
- 7Barberries (Zereshk)2 tablespoons dried barberries (Zereshk), rinsed and drained (optional, but traditional)
- 8All-Purpose Flour1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, helps bind)
- 9Baking Powder1/2 teaspoon baking powder (optional, for fluffiness)
- 10Turmeric Powder1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 11Salt1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 12Black Pepper1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 13Vegetable Oil or Olive Oil2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil, for cooking
Instructions
- 1
1. Prepare Herbs: Wash and thoroughly dry all the fresh herbs. This is crucial to prevent a watery kuku. Finely chop the parsley, cilantro, dill, and chives (or scallions). You can do this by hand or in a food processor (pulse briefly to avoid mushing). You should have about 3-3.5 cups of chopped herbs in total.
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2. Prepare Add-ins (Optional): If using walnuts, roughly chop them. If using barberries, rinse them under cold water and pat dry. Set aside.
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3. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, crack the 6 eggs. Whisk them well with a fork until thoroughly combined. Add the chopped herbs, chopped walnuts (if using), rinsed barberries (if using), flour (if using), baking powder (if using), turmeric powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the kuku tough.
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4. Cook on Stovetop: Heat 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil or olive oil in a large (10-inch or 25cm) non-stick skillet with a tight-fitting lid over medium-low heat. The oil should cover the bottom of the pan.
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Once the oil is hot (it should shimmer), pour the egg and herb mixture into the skillet. Spread it evenly. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet tightly with the lid, and cook for 15-20 minutes. This slow cooking allows the kuku to cook through and become golden brown on the bottom without burning.
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5. Flip or Finish in Oven: After 15-20 minutes, check the bottom. If it's golden brown and the edges are set (the top might still be slightly jiggly), you have two options:
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- Flip Method: Carefully invert the kuku onto a large plate, then slide it back into the skillet cooked-side up. Cook, covered, for another 10-15 minutes, or until the second side is also golden brown and cooked through.
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- Oven Finish Method (easier for beginners): If your skillet is oven-safe, transfer the skillet (uncovered) to a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the kuku is fully set in the center and lightly golden on top.
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6. Serve: Once cooked, slide the Kuku Sabzi onto a cutting board. Cut into wedges or squares. Kuku Sabzi is traditionally served with yogurt (plain or mixed with garlic/mint), fresh bread (like lavash or sangak), and often tomatoes or pickles. It can be served warm or at room temperature.
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Note: For a richer kuku, you can add 1/4 teaspoon of saffron threads steeped in 1 tablespoon of hot water to the egg mixture.
Helpful Links
Kuku Sabzi (Persian Herb Frittata) - My Persian Kitchen
A traditional and highly regarded recipe for Kuku Sabzi, offering detailed instructions.
Kuku Sabzi (Persian Herb Omelet) - A Saffron & Cardamom
Another authentic recipe for Kuku Sabzi, focusing on the abundance of fresh herbs.
Kuku Sabzi (Persian Herb Frittata) - Unicorns in the Kitchen
A recipe with clear instructions for making the popular Persian herb frittata.
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