How do you pronounce koobideh?

Koobideh is pronounced KOO-bee-deh, with the emphasis on the first syllable "KOO". The word comes from Persian meaning "pounded" or "ground", referring to how the meat is prepared.

How do you pronounce ghormeh sabzi?

Ghormeh Sabzi is pronounced GHOR-meh SAB-zee. "Ghormeh" means stew and "sabzi" means herbs. It's Iran's national dish.

How do you pronounce baba ganoush?

Baba Ganoush is pronounced BAH-bah gah-NOOSH. It's a smoky eggplant dip popular throughout the Middle East.

How do you pronounce zereshk polo?

Zereshk Polo is pronounced zeh-RESHK POH-loh. "Zereshk" means barberries and "polo" means rice in Persian.

How to Pronounce Persian & Mediterranean Menu Items

Never feel unsure when ordering again. Master the pronunciation of koobideh, ghormeh sabzi, baba ganoush, and other delicious dishes on our menu.

Our friendly staff is always happy to help, but this guide will have you ordering like a pro in no time!

Persian Dishes

Persian cuisine is known for its aromatic rice dishes, succulent kebabs, and rich stews. Here's how to pronounce the classics:

Koobideh

KOO-bee-deh

Ground beef/lamb kebab skewers

💡 Emphasis on "KOO". The name comes from "koobidan" meaning "to pound" in Persian.

Joojeh Kebab

JOO-jeh keh-BOB

Saffron-marinated chicken kebab

💡 "Joojeh" means "little chicken" or chick in Persian. Soft "j" sound.

Ghormeh Sabzi

GHOR-meh SAB-zee

Herb stew with lamb and kidney beans

💡 "Gh" is a guttural sound from the back of the throat, similar to French "r".

Zereshk Polo ba Morgh

zeh-RESHK POH-loh bah MORGH

Barberry rice with saffron chicken

💡 "Zereshk" = barberries, "polo" = rice, "morgh" = chicken.

Tahdig

tah-DEEG

Crispy rice bottom (prized part of Persian rice)

💡 Literally means "bottom of the pot" - considered the best part!

Mediterranean Mezze & Dishes

The Mediterranean region spans many cultures and languages. Here are the mezze and dishes you'll find at Carnys:

Hummus

HUM-us or HOOM-us

Chickpea dip with tahini

💡 Both pronunciations are acceptable. "Hummus" literally means chickpeas in Arabic.

Baba Ganoush

BAH-bah gah-NOOSH

Smoky roasted eggplant dip

💡 "Baba" means father, "ganoush" comes from Arabic meaning pampered or spoiled.

Falafel

fah-LAH-fel

Crispy fried chickpea fritters

💡 Stress on the second syllable. From Arabic "falāfil".

Kibbeh

KIB-beh or KIB-bee

Fried bulgur shells with spiced lamb

💡 Also spelled "kibbe" - a beloved Lebanese appetizer.

Fattoush

fat-TOOSH

Bread salad with sumac dressing

💡 Emphasis on "TOOSH". The crispy pita pieces are essential!

Labneh

LOB-neh

Thick strained yogurt

💡 Short "o" sound. Sometimes spelled "labne" or "lebneh".

Za'atar

ZAH-tar

Middle Eastern spice blend with thyme, sumac, sesame

💡 The apostrophe represents a glottal stop, but "ZAH-tar" is widely accepted.

Desserts & Drinks

Baklava

BAHK-lah-vah or bahk-lah-VAH

Layered phyllo pastry with nuts and honey

💡 Turkish/Greek pronunciation differs slightly - both are correct!

Kunafa

koo-NAH-fah

Shredded phyllo with cheese and syrup

💡 Also spelled "knafeh" or "kanafeh". Stress on the second syllable.

Ayran

EYE-ran

Salted yogurt drink

💡 A refreshing Turkish beverage perfect with kebabs.

Pro Tips for Pronouncing Middle Eastern Words

The "Gh" Sound

In words like "Ghormeh" or "Baba Ganoush," the "gh" is a soft, guttural sound made at the back of the throat. Think of it like a French "r" or simply use a hard "g".

The "Kh" Sound

Similar to the German "ch" in "Bach" - a breathy, throaty sound. If that's difficult, using a hard "k" is perfectly acceptable.

Don't Stress About It!

Most pronunciations have multiple acceptable variations. The key is to try! Our staff will always understand what you're ordering.

Just Point!

When in doubt, point at the menu item. Our servers are happy to help and will never make you feel embarrassed about pronunciation.

Ready to Order?

Now that you know how to pronounce everything, come try our delicious Persian and Mediterranean dishes at Carnys!

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