10 Little-Known Stories About Famous Celebrities, Singers, Writers, and Historical Figures
8. Seyyed Zia ol-Din Tabataba’i: The Iranian Prime Minister Who Reportedly Loved Alfalfa
Political leaders are usually remembered for their decisions, political alliances, historical influence, and the events that shaped their careers.
However, unusual personal habits can sometimes become equally fascinating biographical details.
An anecdote about Seyyed Zia ol-Din Tabataba’i, a former Iranian prime minister during the Qajar period, describes an unusual passion for alfalfa.
According to the account, alfalfa was not simply an occasional ingredient in his diet. It reportedly appeared in a wide range of dishes, including rice, stews, salads, fritters, and even desserts.
The story also claims that alfalfa was added to doogh, a traditional Iranian yogurt-based drink.
Who Was Seyyed Zia ol-Din Tabataba’i?
Seyyed Zia ol-Din Tabataba’i was born in 1889 and became an important political figure during the final years of the Qajar dynasty.
He served as prime minister in 1921, following the coup of 3 Esfand 1299 in the Iranian calendar.
His short period in office made him one of the controversial figures associated with the political transition that preceded the rise of Reza Shah.
Tabataba’i’s political career included periods of exile and later involvement in public affairs.
He eventually returned to Iran and remained a recognizable personality in twentieth-century Iranian political history.
What Is Alfalfa?
Alfalfa, known in Persian as yonjeh, is a plant cultivated for agricultural and nutritional purposes.
It is widely used as animal fodder, particularly for livestock.
However, alfalfa also has a history of culinary use in certain regional food traditions.
Its leaves and sprouts can be incorporated into salads and other preparations.
The plant is associated with nutritional value and contains several vitamins and minerals.
The Unusual Culinary Preference
The account describes Tabataba’i as someone who reportedly enjoyed alfalfa in an unusually large number of dishes.
October 30, 2026 | 8:05 pm
