What is Pashmak? A short but sweet introduction to this ‘Iranian candy floss’

We all recognize candy floss – this delightful treat reminds us of fun fairs and the good old days (when we didn’t have to worry about sugar intake). Around the world, you can find many sweets that resemble cotton candy in many ways. Famous among them is Pashmak, a traditional sweet commonly known as ‘Iranian cotton candy’. However, pashmak is much more than candy floss – its fine, thread-like consistency and subtle flavor are a testament to the skill and patience of its makers. Pashmak is often added as a perfect decoration on top of other sweets. In Iran, you can find it on top of puddings and ice cream.

History of Pashmak

The word “pashmak” means “wool” in Persian, alluding to the soft white threads of this dish. Eating this dessert, which is simultaneously dense and light, also fills you with inner warmth, making its name even more apt. The pashmak is believed to have originated in the historical city of Yazd; A place which is famous for its sweet dishes. Iranian cuisine is often considered to be Dragon’s Beard Candy, a Chinese delicacy and a distant counterpart of our own Soan Papdi. Closer to home, pashmak is often compared to neighboring Türkiye’s pismania, which is a very similar dessert. In Iran, Azerbaijan, Türkiye, and surrounding regions, pashmak may be served with nuts, watermelon, and pomegranate on Yalda Night. It is a festival celebrated on the winter solstice since ancient times.

Also read: Irani Chicken Kadhai: Give your regular chicken a delicious twist with this Irani recipe

Pashmak can be served with nuts, watermelon and pomegranate on Yalda Night. ,Photo: iStock)

pashmak recipe How to make pashmak at home

While candy floss requires a special spinning drum, it’s possible to make pashmaks without any fancy equipment. Although many pashmak makers today use machinery to facilitate the process, the dessert was traditionally made without it. You can also make this delicious dessert in your kitchen.

Start by dissolving the sugar in water. Keep this syrup on flame and when the water boils, add vinegar. Keep stirring and let the mixture thicken. Grease a tray and keep it ready. When the mixture becomes thick enough, pour it on a tray, let it cool and then start kneading it.

Also read: Soan Papdi: Complex Indian Candy Floss

Add flour to oil in a pan and fry while stirring gently. You can also add a small amount of food coloring and/or flavor extract to the pan. Pashmak is usually flavored with sesame seeds, cardamom, rose water, saffron, orange blossom, pistachio or vanilla. Pour the flour mixture into a tray and then place the sugar mixture on it. Stretch and roll the dough into the shape of a number 8 (or infinity sign). This makes it easier to knead and get a thread-like shape. Continue stretching and kneading the dough in this manner until it turns into delicate, silky threads.

Your pashmak is ready. To enhance the taste, you can garnish it with saffron and pistachios. You can also add it to the top of your ice cream and cakes as a decorative element.

Click here for the full recipe of pashmak.