Reshteh (Persian: ????), from the Persian word for thread or
string, refers to a very fine noodle similar to capellini (angel
hair pasta). However, it generally means a fresh (as opposed to
dry) ribbon shaped egg noodle. Traditionally the noodle would be
a homemade and cut item. Reshteh was the only word used to
denote noodles in Arab cookbooks of the 13th and 14th centuries.
Special symbolism is given to dishes that contain noodles when a
decision of importance or change is to occur; the noodles or
"reins" of one's life are to be taken in hand. A traditional
dish in Iran is reshteh polow or pilaf, which is served during
the Persian new year with the noodles representing the threads
of life and family intertwined. Noodles, though common in the
Arab world, are used for special occasion dishes in giving
thanks and for journeys especially to Mecca. Typical preparation
is for the noodles to broken into parts, fried or grilled brown
and then added to rice. The reshteh used currently in the
Iranian cuisine is actua