#66

World Rank

Tachin

ته‌چین

Persian rice cake — saffron-yogurt marinated rice pressed and baked into a golden-crusted cake with chicken or lamb. The most festive of Persian rice dishes.

🌍

Iran

Isfahan

🌶️

Not Spicy

Spice Level

💰

$5-10

Price Range

⏱️

Prep Time

Overview

Tachin, known locally as "ته‌چین", stands at #66 in our ranking of the world's finest rice dishes. Persian rice cake — saffron-yogurt marinated rice pressed and baked into a golden-crusted cake with chicken or lamb. The most festive of Persian rice dishes. Originating from Isfahan, Iran, this beloved dish has captured hearts worldwide with its saffron-rich, tangy, and golden-crusted.

Key Ingredients

Basmati ricesaffronyogurteggsbutterchicken/lambbarberries

The authentic Tachin features these essential ingredients: Basmati rice, saffron, yogurt, eggs, butter, chicken/lamb, barberries. Each component contributes to the dish's distinctive saffron-rich, tangy, and golden-crusted character that makes it truly special.

Flavor Profile

Saffron-rich, tangy, and golden-crusted

Preparation & Serving

Cooking Method

Rice marinated in saffron-yogurt, layered with meat, baked until crusted

Serving Style

Cut into wedges like a cake, revealing layers

Tachin is prepared using the traditional method: rice marinated in saffron-yogurt, layered with meat, baked until crusted. The dish is cut into wedges like a cake, revealing layers, showcasing the care and attention that goes into every serving. This dish focuses on its rich flavors rather than heat.

Best Paired With

Wine
Local beverages
Fresh salad

History & Origins

The story of Tachin is deeply intertwined with the culinary traditions of Isfahan, Iran. This iconic dish emerged from the Iran food culture, where Basmati rice and saffron have been staple ingredients for generations. Over time, Tachin evolved from a regional specialty to an internationally recognized symbol of Iran's rich culinary heritage.

Where to Try Authentic Tachin

For the most authentic Tachin experience, Isfahan in Iran is the ultimate destination. Look for establishments where Tachin is the specialty, and don't hesitate to ask locals for their recommendations. Many traditional eateries in Iran have been perfecting their recipes for generations.

Nutrition Information

450-600

Calories

$5-10

Price Range

/3

Spice Level

Prep Time

Cultural Significance

Tachin represents more than just food—it's a window into Iran's cultural identity and traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Tachin?
Tachin (ته‌چین) is a rice dishes from Isfahan, Iran. Persian rice cake — saffron-yogurt marinated rice pressed and baked into a golden-crusted cake with chicken or lamb. The most festive of Persian rice dishes.
How do you pronounce Tachin?
Tachin is the English name, while locals call it "ته‌چین" in Iran.
What does Tachin taste like?
Tachin has Saffron-rich, tangy, and golden-crusted.
What are the main ingredients in Tachin?
The key ingredients include Basmati rice, saffron, yogurt, eggs, butter, chicken/lamb, barberries.
Is Tachin spicy?
Tachin is not typically spicy. It focuses on other flavor elements.
How many calories are in Tachin?
A typical serving of Tachin contains approximately 450-600 calories.
What is the best drink to pair with Tachin?
Tachin pairs excellently with Wine, Local beverages, Fresh salad.
Where is the best place to try authentic Tachin?
For the most authentic experience, visit Isfahan in Iran, where Tachin originated.