In the beginning level of Persian, 'Mahitabe' is a simple noun you learn to identify objects in the kitchen. It means 'frying pan'. You use it when talking about making basic food like eggs. At this level, you just need to know that it is a thing you use with oil to cook. For example: 'This is a pan.' (In mahitabe ast). You will see it in pictures of houses and kitchens. It is a long word, but you can remember it by 'Mahi' which means fish. Iranians love fish, and they cook it in this pan. It is an essential word for surviving in a Persian-speaking home because everyone uses it every day. You don't need to worry about complex grammar yet, just remember the name and that it is used for frying.
At the A2 level, you start using 'Mahitabe' in more complete sentences with verbs. You learn to say things like 'Put the pan on the stove' (Mahitabe ra ruye ojaq bogzar). You also begin to use adjectives to describe the pan, such as 'bozorg' (large) or 'koochak' (small). You should know that 'Mahitabe' is the full word, but people often say 'Tabe'. You will encounter this word in simple recipes. You are expected to know the difference between this and a 'Ghāblame' (pot). You might also learn the plural form 'Mahitab-hā'. This level focuses on practical usage: buying a pan, asking where it is, or telling someone you are washing it. It is a 'countable' noun, so you can say 'yek mahitabe' (one pan).
By B1, you are comfortable using 'Mahitabe' in various culinary contexts. You understand compound verbs like 'sorkh kardan' (to fry) and how they relate to the pan. You can describe the material of the pan, such as 'teflon' (non-stick) or 'mesi' (copper). You might start hearing it in social contexts, like discussing what to buy for a new home. You understand the 'Ezafe' construction properly: 'Mahitabe-ye jadid' (the new frying pan). At this level, you can follow a video recipe where the chef says 'Mahitabe ra dagh konid' (Heat the pan). You also begin to recognize the word in the context of 'Kabab Tabei', a popular dish. Your vocabulary is expanding to include parts of the pan, like 'dasteh' (handle) and 'kaf' (bottom).
At the B2 level, you can engage in more detailed discussions about cooking techniques involving the 'Mahitabe'. You can explain why a cast-iron pan ('chodani') is better for searing meat than a thin aluminum one. You understand more complex instructions like 'taft dādan' (sautéing) versus 'sorkh kardan' (deep frying). You can read articles about kitchen safety, such as why you shouldn't use metal utensils on certain 'Mahitab-hā'. You are also aware of regional variations in the word and can understand it when spoken quickly in a busy restaurant kitchen. You might use the word metaphorically or in more complex grammatical structures, such as 'agar mahitabe dashtam...' (if I had a frying pan...). You are also becoming aware of the cultural significance of certain pans, like those used for Tadig.
At the C1 level, your understanding of 'Mahitabe' includes its historical and etymological roots. You can discuss the evolution of Persian cookware from the Safavid era to the present. You use the word fluently in professional or academic discussions about Persian gastronomy. You can write a detailed review of kitchen products, comparing different brands of 'Mahitabe' based on heat conductivity and durability. You understand subtle nuances in recipes, such as the difference between a 'Tabe-ye dotee' and a regular one. You are familiar with literary or archaic references to cooking vessels. Your use of prepositions and Ezafe with the word is flawless, and you can switch between formal and colloquial forms effortlessly depending on the audience.
At the C2 level, you have a near-native grasp of 'Mahitabe' and its place in the Persian language. You can interpret the word in complex literary texts or use it in creative writing to evoke specific domestic atmospheres. You are capable of discussing the socio-economic implications of the 'copper vs. teflon' debate in Iranian history. You understand the technical engineering behind modern 'Mahitab-hā' and can translate technical manuals for kitchen appliances into Persian. You can participate in high-level culinary debates about the 'authentic' way to prepare dishes like 'Kookoo' and which specific 'Mahitabe' provides the best heat distribution. The word is no longer just a vocabulary item but a cultural symbol that you can manipulate with precision and style.

ماهیتابه in 30 Seconds

  • Mahitabe is the Persian word for a frying pan, essential for Iranian cooking.
  • The word literally means 'fish pan' but is used for all types of frying.
  • It is a countable noun used with prepositions like 'dar' (in) and 'ru-ye' (on).
  • Common materials include copper, teflon, and cast iron, each with specific uses.

The Persian word ماهیتابه (māhītābe) is a compound noun that serves as the cornerstone of the Persian kitchen. Etymologically, it is derived from two distinct parts: māhī (ماهی), meaning 'fish', and tābe (تابه), meaning 'pan' or 'skillet'. Historically, this suggests that the primary utility of this vessel was for the delicate art of frying fish, a staple in many Iranian regions, particularly near the Caspian Sea in the north and the Persian Gulf in the south. However, in modern linguistic usage, the term has generalized to refer to any shallow, flat-bottomed pan used for frying, sautéing, or searing a wide variety of ingredients. Whether you are preparing a simple omelet for breakfast or the complex, herb-filled Kookoo Sabzi for a festive dinner, the ماهیتابه is the tool you will reach for most frequently.

Linguistic Composition
The word is a fusion of 'Mahi' (Fish) and 'Tabe' (Pan). While 'Tabe' can be used alone, 'Mahitabe' is the more formal and traditionally complete term found in literature and formal recipes.
Culinary Context
In Iranian households, the frying pan is not just a tool but a vessel for creating 'Tadig' (the crispy bottom of the rice) when a pot is unavailable, or for 'Sorkh Kardan' (frying) onions to a perfect golden brown, a process known as 'Piaz-dagh'.

مادرم همیشه ماهی را در یک ماهیتابه بزرگ چدنی سرخ می‌کند تا کاملاً ترد شود.

Translation: My mother always fries the fish in a large cast-iron frying pan so it becomes perfectly crispy.

Beyond its literal meaning, the word evokes the sensory experiences of the Iranian home: the sizzling sound of oil, the aromatic steam of turmeric and saffron, and the communal effort of preparing a meal. In professional Persian culinary circles, the quality of one's ماهیتابه is often discussed with great passion, with preferences ranging from traditional hammered copper (mesi) to modern non-stick (teflon) surfaces. The evolution of this word mirrors the evolution of Persian cooking itself—moving from specific usage for fish to a universal symbol of the frying process.

برای پختن کوکو سبزی، حتماً از یک ماهیتابه نچسب استفاده کنید.

Translation: To cook Kookoo Sabzi, definitely use a non-stick frying pan.

The word is used in various registers. In a formal cookbook, you will always see ماهیتابه. In a casual conversation between friends, you might hear 'Tabe'. It is also a common item on wedding registries (Jahiziyeh) in Iran, where high-quality cookware sets are highly valued. Understanding this word is essential for anyone wanting to navigate a Persian kitchen or follow a traditional recipe accurately.

آیا این ماهیتابه برای استفاده روی اجاق برقی مناسب است؟

Translation: Is this frying pan suitable for use on an electric stove?
Material Variations
Mahitabe-ye Mesi (Copper), Mahitabe-ye Chodani (Cast Iron), Mahitabe-ye Teflon (Non-stick).

او روغن را در ماهیتابه داغ کرد و سپس پیازها را اضافه نمود.

Translation: He heated the oil in the frying pan and then added the onions.

Using ماهیتابه correctly in a sentence requires an understanding of Persian prepositions and common culinary verbs. Most frequently, you will see it paired with the preposition 'dar' (در), meaning 'in', or 'ru-ye' (روی), meaning 'on'. Because it is a physical object, it often acts as the direct object of verbs like 'shostan' (to wash), 'kharidan' (to buy), or 'gozashtan' (to put). In the context of cooking, it is the location where actions like 'sorkh kardan' (frying) or 'taft dādan' (sautéing) take place.

Direct Object Usage
When you are doing something to the pan itself, you use the 'rā' marker: 'Mahitabe rā beshur' (Wash the frying pan).
Locational Usage
When describing where food is, use 'dar': 'Ghosht dar mahitabe ast' (The meat is in the frying pan).

لطفاً ماهیتابه را روی شعله ملایم قرار دهید.

Translation: Please place the frying pan on a low flame.

One interesting aspect of Persian grammar is the use of compound verbs. When using ماهیتابه, you often combine it with verbs that describe the state of the pan. For example, 'Mahitabe dāgh shode ast' (The frying pan has become hot). If you are referring to a specific type of pan, the adjective follows the noun using the Ezafe construction: 'Mahitabe-ye bozorg' (Large frying pan) or 'Mahitabe-ye taze' (New frying pan).

او تمام سیب‌زمینی‌ها را در یک ماهیتابه کوچک جا داد.

Translation: He fit all the potatoes into one small frying pan.

In more advanced sentences, you might use the word in the context of kitchen organization or shopping. For instance, 'In mahitabe az jens-e lo'ab ast' (This frying pan is made of enamel). Or, 'Mahitabe-ye dotee-ye rezhimy' (A double-sided diet pan), which is a popular modern kitchen gadget in Iran used for grilling with minimal oil. The flexibility of the word allows it to adapt to various technological changes in the kitchen while maintaining its core identity.

نباید با قاشق فلزی روی کف این ماهیتابه بکشید.

Translation: You should not scrape a metal spoon on the bottom of this frying pan.
Common Verb Pairings
Gozashtan (to put), Bardashtan (to pick up), Sorkh kardan (to fry in), Shostan (to wash).

کدام ماهیتابه برای پختن نیمرو بهتر است؟

Translation: Which frying pan is better for cooking a fried egg?

You will encounter the word ماهیتابه in a variety of real-world settings, ranging from the domestic to the commercial. The most common place is, of course, the home kitchen. If you are a guest in an Iranian home, you might hear your host say, 'Seda-ye jiz-o-jiz-e mahitabe mi-ayad' (The sizzling sound of the frying pan is coming), signaling that a delicious meal is in progress. It is also a frequent term in Iranian bazaars. In the copper-smith sections of the Isfahan or Tehran bazaars, you will hear vendors shouting about the quality of their 'Mahitabe-ye dastsaz' (Handmade frying pans).

In Media
Cooking shows on IRIB (Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting) use this word constantly. Celebrity chefs will instruct viewers on how to 'season' their pans or which size to choose for specific dishes.
In Retail
Department stores like Shahrvand or online retailers like Digikala have entire sections dedicated to 'Mahitabe', often categorized by brand and material.

فروشنده گفت که این ماهیتابه ده سال ضمانت دارد.

Translation: The salesman said that this frying pan has a ten-year warranty.

In restaurants, particularly those specializing in 'Ghelyeh Mahi' or 'Kabab Tabei', the word is part of the professional jargon. A 'Kabab Tabei' (Pan Kabab) is a specific dish where meat is flattened and fried in a ماهیتابه rather than being grilled on a skewer over coals. This dish is a staple of home-style Iranian restaurant menus. Furthermore, in the context of health and nutrition, you might hear doctors or nutritionists discussing the dangers of using scratched 'Mahitabe-ye Teflon' and recommending ceramic or cast-iron alternatives.

در برنامه‌ی آشپزی، سرآشپز توضیح داد که چگونه ماهیتابه را قبل از پخت گرم کنیم.

Translation: On the cooking program, the chef explained how to preheat the frying pan before cooking.

Social media platforms like Instagram and Telegram are also full of Persian food bloggers who showcase their recipes. You will frequently see captions like 'Mavad-e avaliyeh ra dar mahitabe berizid' (Pour the raw ingredients into the frying pan). The word is so ubiquitous that it is often one of the first household objects a child learns to name in Persian. Whether it is a discussion about the best way to clean a burnt pan or a debate over the merits of air-fryers versus the traditional ماهیتابه, the word remains central to Persian culinary discourse.

قیمت ماهیتابه‌های مسی در بازار تجریش بسیار بالا بود.

Translation: The price of copper frying pans in the Tajrish bazaar was very high.
Cultural Idioms
While not a common idiom, the phrase 'Kabab-e Tabei' has become a cultural icon of 'home-cooked comfort food'.

مواظب باش، دسته ماهیتابه خیلی داغ است!

Translation: Be careful, the frying pan handle is very hot!

For learners of Persian, the word ماهیتابه can present a few challenges, primarily related to its length, spelling, and distinction from other kitchen vessels. One common mistake is confusing it with 'Ghāblame' (قابلمه), which means 'pot'. While a 'Ghāblame' is deep and used for boiling or stewing (like making 'Khoresht' or rice), a ماهیتابه is shallow and used for frying. Using 'Ghāblame' when you mean 'Mahitabe' will confuse a native speaker because the cooking technique required for each is entirely different.

Spelling and Pronunciation
Some learners misspell it as 'Mahitabeh' with an extra 'h' at the end, or forget the 'i' after 'Mah'. The correct IPA is /mɒːhiːtɒːbe/.
Preposition Confusion
Learners often say 'Mahitabe ra sorkh kon' (Fry the frying pan) instead of 'Dar mahitabe sorkh kon' (Fry in the frying pan).

اشتباه: من برنج را در ماهیتابه می‌پزم. (درست: قابلمه)

Translation: Mistake: I cook rice in the frying pan. (Correct: Pot)

Another common error involves the 'Ezafe' construction. When describing the pan, learners often forget to add the short 'e' sound at the end of 'Mahitabe' before an adjective. For example, saying 'Mahitabe bozorg' instead of 'Mahitabe-ye bozorg'. This is a fundamental rule in Persian grammar that applies to all nouns, but because 'Mahitabe' ends in a silent 'h' (which represents the 'e' vowel), it requires a 'ye' (ی) as a bridge. Furthermore, learners might confuse 'Mahitabe' with 'Sāj' (ساج), which is a specific type of convex pan used for baking flatbreads in rural areas.

اشتباه: ماهیتابه من تفلون نیست. (درست: ماهیتابه‌ی من...)

Translation: Mistake: My frying pan is not non-stick. (Grammar: Needs Ezafe)

In terms of register, using the full word ماهیتابه in a very informal, fast-paced street setting might sound slightly 'bookish' or overly precise, where 'Tabe' would suffice. However, as a learner, using the full word is never 'wrong' and actually shows a good command of the vocabulary. Lastly, be careful with the plural form. While 'Mahitabe-hā' is standard, you might hear 'Mahitabe-jat' in very old-fashioned or commercial contexts, though this is rare and generally considered incorrect in modern standard Persian.

اشتباه: روغن را روی ماهیتابه نریز. (درست: داخل/در ماهیتابه)

Translation: Mistake: Don't pour oil 'on' the frying pan (meaning the outside/surface). (Correct: Inside/In)
False Cognates
Do not confuse 'Mahi' (fish) with 'Mah' (moon), although they look similar. A 'Mah-tabe' would be a 'moon pan', which doesn't exist!

او ماهیتابه را با سیم ظرفشویی خش انداخت.

Translation: He scratched the frying pan with a steel wool scrubber.

While ماهیتابه is the most common term for a frying pan, Persian offers several synonyms and related words that describe specific types of pans or regional variations. Understanding these nuances will help you sound more like a native speaker and better understand specialized culinary contexts. The most immediate alternative is 'Tabe' (تابه), which is simply the shortened version. It is used interchangeably in most contexts but is slightly more casual.

Tabe (تابه)
The general word for any pan. It is less specific than Mahitabe but used very frequently in daily speech.
Sāj (ساج)
A flat or slightly convex iron griddle used specifically for making traditional breads like 'Nan-e Tir' or 'Nan-e Saji'. It lacks the high sides of a Mahitabe.

برای درست کردن نان محلی، به جای ماهیتابه از ساج استفاده می‌کنند.

Translation: To make local bread, they use a 'Saj' instead of a frying pan.

Another related term is 'Wok' (وک), which has been borrowed into Persian from English/Chinese to describe the deep, rounded pans used for stir-frying. In modern Iranian kitchens, you might also see 'Mahitabe-ye Grill' (Grill pan), which has ridges to create sear marks on meat. For very small pans used for melting butter or frying a single egg, the term 'Tābe-ye koochak' or even 'Shir-joosh' (milk boiler, if used creatively) might be heard, though the latter is technically for liquids.

این ماهیتابه دوطرفه برای سرخ کردن بادمجان عالی است.

Translation: This double-sided frying pan is excellent for frying eggplants.

Comparing ماهیتابه to 'Ghāblame' (pot) is the most important distinction. A 'Ghāblame' is designed to hold heat and moisture for long periods, while a ماهیتابه is designed for quick heat transfer and evaporation. In the world of modern appliances, the 'Sorkh-kon' (Air fryer/Deep fryer) is the high-tech alternative to the traditional pan. However, for many Iranians, nothing can replace the specific texture and flavor that comes from frying in a well-seasoned ماهیتابه.

او به جای قابلمه، از یک ماهیتابه دیواره‌دار برای پختن سوسیس استفاده کرد.

Translation: Instead of a pot, he used a deep-walled frying pan to cook the sausages.
Skillet vs. Pan
In English, 'skillet' and 'frying pan' are often the same. In Persian, 'Mahitabe' covers both, but 'Tabe-ye Chodani' specifically maps to 'Cast-iron skillet'.

آیا ماهیتابه پیرکس برای سرخ کردن مناسب است؟

Translation: Is a Pyrex frying pan suitable for frying?

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"جهت پخت، مواد را در ماهیتابه قرار دهید."

Neutral

"ماهیتابه روی میز است."

Informal

"تابه رو بده من."

Child friendly

"ببین! مامان داره تو ماهیتابه تخم‌مرغ می‌پزه."

Slang

"ماهیتابه‌مونو داغ کرد!"

Fun Fact

Despite being called a 'fish pan', it is used to cook almost everything in Iran *except* soup!

Pronunciation Guide

UK /mɒːhiːtɒːbe/
US /mɑːhiːtɑːbe/
The primary stress is on the last syllable 'be', which is typical for Persian nouns.
Rhymes With
تابه (Tābe) ارابه (Arrābe) قورباغه (Ghoorbāghe - near rhyme) ادامه (Edāme) نامه (Nāme) جامه (Jāme) خامه (Khāme) برنامه (Barnāme)
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing 'Mahi' as 'May-hi' (incorrect English influence).
  • Skipping the 'i' and saying 'Mahtabe'.
  • Pronouncing the final 'e' as a long 'ee'.
  • Stressing the first syllable instead of the last.
  • Confusing the 'h' sound with a 'kh' sound.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

It is a long word but follows standard phonetic rules.

Writing 3/5

Requires remembering the 'h' and 'i' placement.

Speaking 2/5

Rhythmic and easy to pronounce once broken down.

Listening 2/5

Clear sounds, easily distinguishable from other kitchen words.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

ماهی آشپزخانه غذا روغن آتش

Learn Next

قابلمه سرخ کردن پختن ادویه برنج

Advanced

مسگری تفلون ارگونومیک ترمودینامیک قلم‌زنی

Grammar to Know

Ezafe Construction

ماهیتابه‌یِ بزرگ (The big frying pan)

Object Marker 'Rā'

ماهیتابه را آوردم (I brought the frying pan)

Compound Verbs with 'Kardan'

داغ کردن ماهیتابه (To heat the pan)

Pluralization with '-hā'

ماهیتابه‌ها (The frying pans)

Prepositional Phrases

در ماهیتابه (In the frying pan)

Examples by Level

1

این یک ماهیتابه است.

This is a frying pan.

Simple subject-predicate sentence.

2

ماهیتابه کجاست؟

Where is the frying pan?

Interrogative sentence with 'kojast'.

3

ماهیتابه در آشپزخانه است.

The frying pan is in the kitchen.

Use of preposition 'dar'.

4

من یک ماهیتابه دارم.

I have a frying pan.

Verb 'dashtan' (to have) in present tense.

5

ماهیتابه بزرگ است.

The frying pan is big.

Noun + Adjective + Verb.

6

او ماهیتابه را شست.

He/She washed the frying pan.

Past tense of 'shostan' with object marker 'ra'.

7

ماهیتابه روی میز است.

The frying pan is on the table.

Preposition 'ru-ye'.

8

ماهیتابه سیاه است.

The frying pan is black.

Simple color adjective.

1

لطفاً ماهیتابه را به من بده.

Please give me the frying pan.

Imperative form of 'dādan'.

2

من می‌خواهم یک ماهیتابه بخرم.

I want to buy a frying pan.

Modal verb 'khāstan' + infinitive.

3

روغن را در ماهیتابه بریز.

Pour the oil in the frying pan.

Imperative with preposition 'dar'.

4

ماهیتابه خیلی داغ است، دست نزن!

The frying pan is very hot, don't touch!

Negative imperative 'dast nazan'.

5

مادرم در ماهیتابه تخم‌مرغ می‌پزد.

My mother cooks eggs in the frying pan.

Present continuous/habitual tense.

6

این ماهیتابه نچسب است.

This frying pan is non-stick.

Adjective 'nachasb'.

7

آیا ماهیتابه کوچک داری؟

Do you have a small frying pan?

Question with adjective.

8

او ماهیتابه را روی اجاق گذاشت.

He put the frying pan on the stove.

Past tense of 'gozashtan'.

1

قبل از سرخ کردن پیاز، ماهیتابه را خوب گرم کنید.

Before frying the onions, heat the frying pan well.

Subordinate clause with 'ghabl az'.

2

ماهیتابه‌های مسی برای پخت و پز بسیار سالم هستند.

Copper frying pans are very healthy for cooking.

Plural noun with adjective.

3

او سیب‌زمینی‌ها را در ماهیتابه تفت داد.

He sautéed the potatoes in the frying pan.

Compound verb 'taft dādan'.

4

باید ماهیتابه را با اسفنج نرم بشویید تا خط نیفتد.

You should wash the frying pan with a soft sponge so it doesn't get scratched.

Modal 'bāyad' + subjunctive.

5

کدام ماهیتابه برای درست کردن کوکو سبزی مناسب‌تر است؟

Which frying pan is more suitable for making Kookoo Sabzi?

Comparative adjective 'monāseb-tar'.

6

دسته ماهیتابه شکست و مجبور شدم یکی جدید بخرم.

The frying pan handle broke and I had to buy a new one.

Past tense 'shekast' and 'majbur shodan'.

7

خورشت را در قابلمه بپز، نه در ماهیتابه.

Cook the stew in the pot, not in the frying pan.

Contrastive sentence.

8

ماهیتابه را از روی حرارت بردارید.

Remove the frying pan from the heat.

Imperative 'bardārid'.

1

این ماهیتابه چدنی حرارت را به طور یکنواخت توزیع می‌کند.

This cast-iron frying pan distributes heat evenly.

Adverbial phrase 'be towr-e yeknavakht'.

2

اگر از ماهیتابه نچسب استفاده نکنی، ماهی به کف آن می‌چسبد.

If you don't use a non-stick frying pan, the fish will stick to the bottom.

Conditional type 1.

3

او ترجیح می‌دهد از ماهیتابه‌های استیل ضدزنگ استفاده کند.

He prefers to use stainless steel frying pans.

Compound adjective 'zed-e zang'.

4

در بسیاری از دستورهای پخت، گرم کردن اولیه ماهیتابه ضروری است.

In many recipes, preheating the frying pan is essential.

Gerund/Noun 'garm kardan-e avaliyeh'.

5

ماهیتابه را بیش از حد پر نکنید چون دما پایین می‌آید.

Do not overfill the frying pan because the temperature will drop.

Causal conjunction 'chon'.

6

کباب تابه‌ای یکی از غذاهای محبوب است که در ماهیتابه تهیه می‌شود.

Pan Kabab is one of the popular dishes prepared in a frying pan.

Passive construction 'tahiye mishavad'.

7

او با دقت ماهیتابه را با لایه‌ای از روغن پوشاند.

He carefully coated the frying pan with a layer of oil.

Adverb 'bā deghat'.

8

استفاده از ماهیتابه‌های آسیب‌دیده می‌تواند برای سلامتی مضر باشد.

Using damaged frying pans can be harmful to health.

Subject is a gerund phrase.

1

هنر مسگری در ایران شامل ساخت ماهیتابه‌هایی با ظرافت بسیار است.

The art of coppersmithing in Iran includes making frying pans with great delicacy.

Complex noun phrase 'sakht-e mahitab-hā-yi'.

2

تکنولوژی نانو در ساخت ماهیتابه‌های جدید، مقاومت آن‌ها را افزایش داده است.

Nano-technology in the construction of new frying pans has increased their resistance.

Present perfect 'afzāyesh dāde ast'.

3

او در مقاله‌اش به بررسی تفاوت‌های انتقال حرارت در ماهیتابه‌های مختلف پرداخت.

In his article, he examined the differences in heat transfer in various frying pans.

Verb 'be barresi pardākhtan'.

4

انتخاب ماهیتابه مناسب، تاثیر مستقیمی بر کیفیت نهایی غذا دارد.

Choosing the right frying pan has a direct impact on the final quality of the food.

Noun phrase as subject.

5

برخی معتقدند که پختن غذا در ماهیتابه سنگی طعم متفاوتی به آن می‌دهد.

Some believe that cooking food in a stone frying pan gives it a different flavor.

Complex sentence with 'mo'taghedand'.

6

ماهیتابه‌های دوطرفه برای پخت غذاهایی که نیاز به برگرداندن دارند، ایده‌آل هستند.

Double-sided frying pans are ideal for cooking foods that need to be flipped.

Relative clause 'ke niyāz be bargardāndan dārand'.

7

در بازارهای سنتی، صدای چکش‌کاری روی ماهیتابه‌ها به گوش می‌رسد.

In traditional bazaars, the sound of hammering on frying pans can be heard.

Passive 'be goosh mi-resad'.

8

او با استفاده از یک ماهیتابه حرفه‌ای، استیک را به بهترین نحو سرخ کرد.

Using a professional frying pan, he seared the steak in the best possible way.

Adverbial phrase 'be behtarin nahv'.

1

واکاوی ریشه‌شناختی واژه ماهیتابه، پیوند عمیق آن را با فرهنگ غذایی ساحل‌نشینان آشکار می‌سازد.

An etymological analysis of the word 'mahitabe' reveals its deep connection with the food culture of coastal dwellers.

Academic vocabulary: 'vākāvi', 'ashkār misāzad'.

2

تطبیق ویژگی‌های ترمودینامیکی ماهیتابه‌های سرامیکی با نیازهای آشپزی مدرن، موضوع این پژوهش است.

Adapting the thermodynamic properties of ceramic frying pans to modern culinary needs is the subject of this research.

Highly formal academic structure.

3

در متون کهن، اشاراتی به استفاده از ماهیتابه‌های زرین در دربار شاهان شده است.

In ancient texts, there are references to the use of golden frying pans in the courts of kings.

Passive 'shode ast' with 'ishārāt'.

4

ظرافت به‌کاررفته در ساخت ماهیتابه‌های قلم‌زنی شده، آن‌ها را به اشیایی زینتی بدل کرده است.

The delicacy used in making engraved frying pans has turned them into decorative objects.

Perfect participle 'be-kār-rafte'.

5

چالش‌های زیست‌محیطی تولید انبوه ماهیتابه‌های یک‌بار مصرف، دغدغه‌ی جدی فعالان این حوزه است.

The environmental challenges of mass-producing disposable frying pans are a serious concern for activists in this field.

Abstract noun subject.

6

او با مهارتی بی‌نظیر، از ماهیتابه به عنوان ابزاری برای خلق جلوه‌های بصری در آشپزی نمایشی بهره برد.

With unparalleled skill, he utilized the frying pan as a tool to create visual effects in performance cooking.

Use of 'bahre bordan' (to utilize).

7

تنوع ساختاری ماهیتابه‌ها در اقلیم‌های مختلف ایران، بازتاب‌دهنده نبوغ بومی در انطباق با منابع در دسترس است.

The structural diversity of frying pans in different climates of Iran reflects indigenous ingenuity in adapting to available resources.

Participial phrase 'bāztāb-dahandeh'.

8

نقد و بررسی کارکردگرایانه طراحی ماهیتابه‌های ارگونومیک، دریچه‌ای نو به سوی بهینه‌سازی فعالیت‌های خانگی می‌گشاید.

A functionalist critique of ergonomic frying pan design opens a new window toward optimizing household activities.

Complex abstract sentence.

Common Collocations

ماهیتابه نچسب
ماهیتابه چدنی
ماهیتابه مسی
دسته ماهیتابه
کف ماهیتابه
ست ماهیتابه
ماهیتابه دوطرفه
روغن در ماهیتابه
شستن ماهیتابه
ماهیتابه روی اجاق

Common Phrases

ماهیتابه را داغ کردن

— To preheat the frying pan. Essential first step in many recipes.

اول ماهیتابه را داغ کن و بعد روغن بریز.

ماهیتابه را چرب کردن

— To grease the pan. Used when baking or making delicate items.

کف ماهیتابه را با کمی کره چرب کنید.

ماهیتابه را شستن

— To wash the pan. A common household chore.

بعد از ناهار، نوبت من است که ماهیتابه را بشویم.

ماهیتابه را برگرداندن

— To flip the pan (usually a double-sided one). Used for dishes like Kookoo.

حالا وقت آن است که ماهیتابه را برگردانی.

ماهیتابه را روی شعله گذاشتن

— To place the pan on the flame/stove.

ماهیتابه را روی شعله ملایم بگذار.

ماهیتابه را از برق کشیدن

— To unplug an electric frying pan.

فراموش نکن ماهیتابه را از برق بکشی.

ماهیتابه را خش انداختن

— To scratch the pan. Usually a warning about using metal tools.

مواظب باش ماهیتابه را خش نیندازی.

ماهیتابه را پر کردن

— To fill the pan with food.

ماهیتابه را خیلی پر نکن تا گوشت خوب سرخ شود.

ماهیتابه را خالی کردن

— To empty the pan.

غذا که آماده شد، ماهیتابه را در دیس خالی کن.

ماهیتابه را عوض کردن

— To change/replace the pan.

این ماهیتابه خراب شده، باید آن را عوض کنیم.

Often Confused With

ماهیتابه vs قابلمه

A pot. Used for boiling, while Mahitabe is for frying.

ماهیتابه vs سینی

A tray. Used for carrying items, not for cooking on a stove.

ماهیتابه vs بشقاب

A plate. Used for serving food, not for cooking.

Idioms & Expressions

"کباب تابه‌ای"

— While a dish name, it idiomatically refers to a quick, home-style meal made with love.

امروز حوصله ندارم، فقط یک کباب تابه‌ای درست می‌کنم.

Neutral
"مثل ماهی در تابه"

— To be very restless or in a difficult, 'heated' situation (similar to 'like a fish out of water' but more stressed).

از نگرانی مثل ماهی در تابه می‌پیچید.

Literary
"تابه را داغ نگه داشتن"

— To keep the momentum going or keep a situation 'hot'.

باید تابه را داغ نگه داریم تا مشتری‌ها نروند.

Metaphorical
"سرش به تابه خوردن"

— To learn a lesson the hard way (rare, colloquial variation of 'head hitting the stone').

بالاخره سرش به تابه خورد و فهمید اشتباه کرده.

Slang
"از تابه به آتش افتادن"

— Out of the frying pan into the fire (Direct translation of the English idiom, understood by many).

با این کار، از ماهیتابه به آتش افتادی.

Neutral
"ماهیتابه خالی"

— Refers to poverty or having nothing to eat.

با این گرانی، ماهیتابه‌ها همه خالی مانده‌اند.

Socio-political
"دسته ماهیتابه را گرفتن"

— To take control of a situation.

باید خودت دسته ماهیتابه را بگیری و مدیریت کنی.

Informal
"روغن ریخته را نذر ماهیتابه کردن"

— To make a virtue of necessity (similar to 'offering spilled oil to the lamp').

حالا که باخته، می‌گوید نخواسته‌ام؛ روغن ریخته را نذر ماهیتابه کرده.

Colloquial
"صدای ماهیتابه"

— The sound of progress or activity in a house.

صدای ماهیتابه از خانه‌شان نمی‌افتد.

Descriptive
"ماهیتابه نویی"

— Showing off something new and shiny (metaphorical for vanity).

فقط می‌خواهد ماهیتابه نویی‌اش را به رخ بکشد.

Informal

Easily Confused

ماهیتابه vs تابه

It's the short version of the same word.

Mahitabe is more formal and specific; Tabe is general.

در کتاب آشپزی نوشته 'ماهیتابه'، ولی مامان می‌گه 'تابه'.

ماهیتابه vs ساج

Both are used for cooking on heat.

Saj is for bread and is flat/convex; Mahitabe is for frying and has sides.

نانوا از ساج استفاده می‌کند، نه ماهیتابه.

ماهیتابه vs دیگ

Both are metal cooking vessels.

Deeg is a large pot for stews/rice; Mahitabe is a shallow pan.

برای نذری از دیگ استفاده می‌کنند.

ماهیتابه vs سرخ‌کن

Both are used for frying.

Sorkh-kon is an appliance (deep/air fryer); Mahitabe is a manual pan.

سیب‌زمینی در سرخ‌کن سریع‌تر آماده می‌شود.

ماهیتابه vs شیرجوش

Both have long handles.

Shir-joosh is deep and small for liquids; Mahitabe is wide for solids.

شیر را در شیرجوش داغ کن.

Sentence Patterns

A1

این [Object] است.

این ماهیتابه است.

A2

[Object] را [Preposition] [Location] بگذار.

ماهیتابه را روی اجاق بگذار.

B1

من [Verb] در [Object] را دوست دارم.

من سرخ کردن در ماهیتابه را دوست دارم.

B2

اگر [Object] [Adjective] بود، غذا نمی‌سوخت.

اگر ماهیتابه نچسب بود، غذا نمی‌سوخت.

C1

با توجه به [Noun]، استفاده از [Object] توصیه می‌شود.

با توجه به بهداشت، استفاده از ماهیتابه استیل توصیه می‌شود.

C2

تجلی [Abstract Noun] در طراحی [Object] مشهود است.

تجلی هنر در طراحی ماهیتابه مسی مشهود است.

A2

آیا [Object] دارید؟

آیا ماهیتابه بزرگ دارید؟

B1

[Object] [Adjective] است.

ماهیتابه خیلی سنگین است.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

Related

How to Use It

frequency

Very High in domestic and culinary contexts.

Common Mistakes
  • Using 'Ghāblame' for frying. Using 'Mahitabe' for frying.

    A pot (Ghāblame) is too deep for frying and will steam the food instead of crisping it.

  • Saying 'Mahitabe bozorg' without Ezafe. Saying 'Mahitabe-ye bozorg'.

    Nouns ending in 'e' (silent h) need a 'ye' bridge before an adjective.

  • Writing 'ماهیتابه' as 'ماهی تابه' with a space. Writing it as one word 'ماهیتابه'.

    While both are understood, the standard spelling is a single compound word.

  • Confusing 'Mahi' (fish) with 'Mah' (moon). Mahitabe (māhī-tābe).

    Adding the 'i' is crucial, otherwise you are saying 'moon pan'.

  • Thinking 'Mahitabe' is only for fish. Using it for any frying task.

    The name is historical; its modern use is universal for all fried foods.

Tips

Always Preheat

برای جلوگیری از چسبیدن غذا، همیشه ماهیتابه را قبل از ریختن روغن کمی گرم کنید.

No Metal Spoons

در ماهیتابه‌های تفلون هرگز از قاشق فلزی استفاده نکنید چون باعث ایجاد خراش می‌شود.

Handle Position

همیشه دسته ماهیتابه را به سمت داخل اجاق قرار دهید تا دست کسی به آن نخورد.

Right Heat

برای سرخ کردن پیاز از شعله ملایم استفاده کنید تا نسوزد و طلایی شود.

Check Weight

ماهیتابه‌های سنگین‌تر معمولاً حرارت را بهتر پخش می‌کنند و دیرتر خراب می‌شوند.

Replace Damaged Pans

اگر لایه نچسب ماهیتابه کنده شده است، دیگر از آن استفاده نکنید زیرا مواد شیمیایی وارد غذا می‌شود.

Stacking

هنگام قرار دادن ماهیتابه‌ها روی هم، بین آن‌ها دستمال کاغذی بگذارید تا خش نیفتند.

Burnt Food

اگر غذا سوخته و به ماهیتابه چسبیده، کمی آب و جوش‌شیرین در آن بجوشانید.

Short Form

In casual Persian, just say 'Tabe' to sound more natural.

Copper Pans

If you visit Iran, a handmade copper 'Mahitabe' is a fantastic souvenir.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'Mahi' (Fish) jumping into a 'Tabe' (Pan). Mahi-Tabe!

Visual Association

Imagine a bright red fish being fried in a shiny gold pan.

Word Web

Kitchen Oil Fire Handle Cooking Fish Egg Breakfast

Challenge

Go to your kitchen, point at your frying pan, and say 'In Mahitabe-ye man ast' five times.

Word Origin

The word is a Persian compound formed from 'Mahi' (Fish) and 'Tabe' (Pan). It has been used for centuries in Persian literature.

Original meaning: Literally 'a pan for fish'.

Indo-European -> Indo-Iranian -> Persian.

Cultural Context

No specific sensitivities; it is a neutral household object.

In the West, we might distinguish between a skillet and a frying pan, but in Iran, 'Mahitabe' covers both.

Kabab Tabei (The most famous dish associated with the word) Copper bazaars of Zanjan and Isfahan Modern Persian cooking shows like 'Dastpokht'

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Cooking Breakfast

  • نیمرو در ماهیتابه
  • کره را آب کن
  • تخم‌مرغ را بشکن
  • ماهیتابه کوچک را بردار

Shopping for Kitchenware

  • قیمت این ماهیتابه چند است؟
  • آیا نچسب است؟
  • ضمانت دارد؟
  • سایز بزرگتر دارید؟

Cleaning

  • ماهیتابه را بساب
  • مایع ظرفشویی
  • اسفنج نرم
  • چربی ماهیتابه

Following a Recipe

  • در ماهیتابه بریزید
  • شعله را کم کنید
  • درب ماهیتابه را بگذارید
  • تا طلایی شدن سرخ کنید

Restaurant Kitchen

  • ماهیتابه داغ!
  • سفارش کباب تابه‌ای
  • تابه را بشور
  • روغن تازه بریز

Conversation Starters

"آیا شما ترجیح می‌دهید از ماهیتابه مسی استفاده کنید یا تفلون؟"

"بهترین روش برای تمیز کردن ماهیتابه سوخته چیست؟"

"برای پختن یک املت خوشمزه، ماهیتابه باید چقدر داغ باشد؟"

"آیا تا به حال کباب تابه‌ای درست کرده‌اید؟"

"کدام برند ماهیتابه در ایران معروف‌تر است؟"

Journal Prompts

درباره اولین باری که سعی کردید در ماهیتابه غذا درست کنید بنویسید.

تفاوت بین آشپزی در ماهیتابه و قابلمه را از نظر خودتان شرح دهید.

اگر می‌توانستید فقط یک ماهیتابه داشته باشید، کدام جنس را انتخاب می‌کردید و چرا؟

یک دستور پخت ساده که فقط به یک ماهیتابه نیاز دارد بنویسید.

توصیف کنید که صدای سرخ شدن غذا در ماهیتابه چه حسی به شما می‌دهد.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

ماهیتابه به معنای ظرفی فلزی و معمولاً دسته‌دار است که برای سرخ کردن انواع غذاها روی اجاق استفاده می‌شود. این واژه از ترکیب 'ماهی' و 'تابه' ساخته شده است.

ماهیتابه کم‌عمق است و برای سرخ کردن به کار می‌رود، اما قابلمه عمیق است و برای پختن غذاهای آبدار مانند خورشت و برنج استفاده می‌شود.

زیرا در گذشته کاربرد اصلی این ظرف برای سرخ کردن ماهی بوده است، هرچند امروزه برای همه نوع سرخ‌کردنی استفاده می‌شود.

بله، 'تابه' شکل کوتاه‌شده و غیررسمی‌تر همان واژه است و در گفتار روزمره بسیار رایج است.

بستگی به نیاز دارد؛ برای نچسب بودن تفلون و سرامیک، و برای دوام و سلامت، مس و چدن بهترین گزینه‌ها هستند.

برای ماهیتابه‌های نچسب باید از اسفنج نرم و مایع ظرفشویی استفاده کرد تا لایه محافظ آن آسیب نبیند.

نوعی ماهیتابه معمولاً دوطرفه است که با استفاده از فشار بخار و روغن بسیار کم، غذا را سرخ یا کباب می‌کند.

جمع این واژه 'ماهیتابه‌ها' است.

معمولاً خیر، اما برای درست کردن 'ته‌دیگ' یا گرم کردن مقدار کمی برنج می‌توان از آن استفاده کرد.

معمولاً از پلاستیک مقاوم به حرارت (باکالیت)، چوب یا فلز ساخته می‌شود.

Test Yourself 200 questions

writing

Write a sentence in Persian using 'Mahitabe' and 'Sorkh kardan'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Describe a 'Mahitabe-ye Mesi' in five words.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a command to your friend to wash the pan.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Explain the difference between a pot and a pan in Persian.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a short recipe for a fried egg in Persian.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

How do you ask for a non-stick pan in a store?

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writing

Describe your favorite pan in Persian.

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writing

Write a sentence about a hot handle.

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writing

What is the etymology of Mahitabe? Write in Persian.

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writing

Write a sentence using the plural form 'Mahitab-hā'.

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writing

Write a warning about using metal on teflon.

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writing

How do you say 'Put the pan on the stove'?

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writing

Write a sentence about buying a new pan.

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writing

Describe the sound of a frying pan.

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writing

Write a sentence about a small pan for one egg.

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writing

Write about the importance of copper pans in Iranian culture.

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writing

Translate: 'The oil is sizzling in the pan.'

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writing

Write a sentence using 'Mahitabe-ye dotee'.

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writing

Explain why we shouldn't overfill the pan.

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writing

Write a sentence about a broken pan handle.

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speaking

Pronounce: ماهیتابه

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'I have a big frying pan' in Persian.

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speaking

Say 'The pan is hot' in Persian.

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speaking

Ask 'Where is the pan?' in Persian.

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speaking

Say 'I am washing the pan' in Persian.

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speaking

Say 'Don't touch the pan' in Persian.

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speaking

Say 'I need a non-stick pan' in Persian.

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speaking

Say 'The handle is broken' in Persian.

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speaking

Say 'Copper pan' in Persian.

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speaking

Say 'Put oil in the pan' in Persian.

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speaking

Say 'I bought a new pan' in Persian.

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speaking

Say 'Which pan is better?' in Persian.

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speaking

Say 'The pan is on the stove' in Persian.

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speaking

Say 'Wash the pan with a sponge' in Persian.

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speaking

Say 'I am frying fish' in Persian.

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speaking

Say 'Double-sided pan' in Persian.

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speaking

Say 'The pan is heavy' in Persian.

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speaking

Say 'Be careful!' in Persian.

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speaking

Say 'I like cooking' in Persian.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'The pan handle is hot' in Persian.

Read this aloud:

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listening

Listen and identify the object: 'آن را روی اجاق بگذار و پیاز سرخ کن.'

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

What color is the pan mentioned? 'ماهیتابه سیاه من کجاست؟'

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

What is the person doing? 'دارم ماهیتابه را می‌شویم.'

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

What material is it? 'این ماهیتابه مسی خیلی قدیمی است.'

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

What is the warning? 'مواظب باش، ماهیتابه خیلی داغ است!'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

What should the person buy? 'باید یک ماهیتابه نچسب بخریم.'

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listening

Where is the pan? 'ماهیتابه در کابینت سمت راست است.'

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listening

What is the sound? 'صدای جیز و جیز از ماهیتابه می‌آید.'

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listening

Is the pan large or small? 'یک ماهیتابه کوچک برای نیمرو بردار.'

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listening

What is broken? 'دسته ماهیتابه کنده شده است.'

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listening

What is the chef saying? 'ماهیتابه را داغ کنید.'

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listening

What is the price? 'این ماهیتابه پانصد هزار تومان است.'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
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listening

What is being cooked? 'در ماهیتابه سیب‌زمینی سرخ می‌کنیم.'

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listening

What is the problem? 'غذا به کف ماهیتابه چسبیده.'

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Is it a pot or a pan? 'قابلمه نه، ماهیتابه را بیاور.'

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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