Afghan cuisine is a beautiful blend of flavors, influenced by Persian, Indian, and Central Asian cooking. Here are some must-try traditional dishes that highlight the country’s rich culinary culture.
🥘 1. Kabuli Pulao
The national dish of Afghanistan, Kabuli Pulao, is a fragrant rice dish cooked with tender lamb or beef, raisins, and carrots. The perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors makes it a favorite at gatherings.
🥟 2. Mantu (Steamed Dumplings)
Mantu are delicate dumplings filled with spiced ground beef or lamb, topped with a yogurt and tomato-based sauce. They’re often served with dried mint and split peas for extra flavor.
🌯 3. Bolani
Bolani is a thin, stuffed flatbread, usually filled with potatoes, leeks, or spinach. It’s crispy on the outside and soft inside, often enjoyed with chutney or yogurt.
🍲 4. Ashak
Similar to Mantu but vegetarian, Ashak are dumplings filled with chives or scallions. They’re topped with garlic yogurt and a spiced tomato sauce, often served during special occasions.
🍗 5. Chopan Kabob
These lamb skewers, traditionally seasoned with salt and cooked over an open flame, are popular among Afghan nomads. The smoky flavor and juicy texture make them irresistible.
🫓 6. Naan-e-Afghani
This long, oval-shaped bread is a staple in Afghan households. It has a crispy crust and soft interior, perfect for scooping up stews and curries.
🍮 7. Sheer Yakh (Afghan Ice Cream)
For dessert, try Sheer Yakh, a creamy, rose-flavored ice cream often garnished with pistachios. It’s a refreshing treat, especially during hot summers.
Have you tried any of these delicious Afghan dishes? Which one would you love to taste first? 😋