Mirza Ghassemi
# Mirza Ghassemi

Mirza ghassemi or mirza qassemi (Persian: میرزا قاسمی) is an Iranian appetizer or main based on tandoori or grilled aubergine (eggplant), distinct to the Northern Iran and Caspian Sea region (specifically Gilan province). It is known as Persian eggplant dip in Western countries.

The dish consists of aubergines seasoned with garlic, tomato, oil or butter, salt and pepper bound together with eggs. It can be prepared as a casserole dish, and is usually served with bread or rice. The variant made with zucchini instead of aubergine is called Kadoo Ghasemi.

## Etymology

Mirza ghasemi was invented by Mohammad Qasim Khan, the governor of Rasht during the reign of Nasser al-Din Shah (1848-1896), and was developed by him and named after him.

