Because of its geographical location, Afghani food and its cuisine borrows from a myriad of countries while remaining uniquely its own & easy recipes to follow.
Afghanistan is not quite the Middle East nor is it quite Asia; it is located in the mountains between Iran and a number of “-stans” (Pakistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan), and is only a short distance from India and China.
Many Afghani recipes spices, including chili peppers, saffron, garam masala, and black pepper, originated in India. Mongolian influences manifest in dumplings and noodles, while Persian contributions include coriander and mint.
Oil in Afghanistan food is liberally used and mutton fat is traditionally added to many dishes as a source of fuel in this country due to the long, cold winters. The recipes of Afghanistan have a low tolerance for heat, and they frequently use yogurt in their cooking as a condiment, topping, or dressing.
The Afghani recipes for lamb kebab are a widely beloved fast food option. Meat, vegetables, chickpeas, tomato, fruit, yogurt, and spices can all be added to the fried onion and garlic base of a korma. Rice is the highlight of any meal and a specialty of the region.
The revered national Afghanistan food is called Kabuli (or Qabli) Pulao, and it consists of slow-cooked meat in a dome of gently seasoned rice with lentils, raisins, carrots, ground cardamom, and nuts. Naan, a type of bread, is eaten with nearly every meal.
Afghans will go to great lengths to accommodate visitors, including cooking the recipes of Afghanistan into elaborate meals even when resources are tight. One would be expected to eat copious amounts of Afghani food food while visiting an Afghani home. Therefore, please be sure to leave some food on your plate, as it will be refilled shortly.
16 Amazing Afghani Food Picks With Easy Recipes
1. Afghani Bolani (Potato & Green Onion Stuffed Flatbread)
The Afghani Bolani Recipe is a traditional stuffed flatbread from Afghanistan. I make it with a mixture of potatoes and green onions, which are seasoned with various spices. I then enclosed the filling within a thin layer of dough and cooked until golden and crispy.
To make a Afghani Bolani Recipe, you’ll need basic ingredients that are often used in Afghan cooking.. You can savor flatbread as a main dish or a snack, and many people serve it with yogurt or chutney to enhance its flavor.
2. Afghani Chicken Kebab
The Afghani Chicken Kebab Recipe is a traditional dish from Afghanistan known for its delicious flavors and nutritional benefits. It involves marinating small pieces of chicken in a blend of spices and yogurt before grilling them on skewers. The spices used in the marinade infuse the chicken with rich and aromatic flavors.
The recipe offers various health benefits. Chicken is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles, bones, and tissues. Additionally, the yogurt used in the marinade provides probiotics, which can be beneficial for gut health and digestion. The dish is also low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for people looking to manage their carb intake.
3. Afghani Pulao Rice
The Afghani Pulao Rice Recipe is a traditional rice dish from Afghanistan. It is known for its delightful combination of flavors and aromas, making it a favorite among many. The recipe typically includes rice, meat (such as lamb, chicken, or beef), and a mix of various spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cumin, which add to its distinctive taste.
The preparation of Afghani Pulao Rice Recipe involves cooking the rice and meat together in a broth infused with spices. This cooking method allows the rice to absorb all the rich flavors, resulting in a flavorful and fragrant dish.
4. Chicken Afghani Curry
The Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe is a flavorful and versatile dish with potential health benefits. This traditional recipe originates from Afghanistan and is known for its rich blend of spices and tender chicken pieces.
The recipe for Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe typically involves marinating chicken pieces in yogurt and a mix of spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and ginger. This step adds depth and complexity to the flavors. After marinating, the chicken is cooked in a flavorful sauce made from onions, tomatoes, garlic, and more spices. The dish is usually served with rice or flatbread, making it a satisfying and hearty meal.
5. Afghan Biscuits
The Afghani Biscuits Recipe is a traditional dish from Afghanistan that is easy to make. These biscuits are delicious and can be enjoyed as a snack or dessert. The recipe includes simple ingredients that are commonly found in most kitchens.
The health benefits of Afghani Biscuits come from the ingredients used in the recipe. They often contain nuts, which are a good source of protein and healthy fats. Nuts are also rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious addition to the biscuits.
Another important ingredient in these biscuits is whole wheat flour, which provides more fiber than refined flour. Fiber is essential for a healthy digestive system and can help regulate blood sugar levels.
6. Lavand e Murgh (Afghani Chicken In Yogurt Gravy)
The Afghani Lavand e Murgh Recipe is a traditional dish from Afghanistan. It is a flavorful and aromatic chicken recipe that is popular in Afghan cuisine. The dish is made with tender pieces of chicken cooked in a rich and fragrant sauce, infused with a blend of spices.
This dish offers several health benefits due to its ingredients. Chicken is a good source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. It also contains various vitamins and minerals that support overall health. The spices used in the recipe, such as turmeric, cumin, and coriander, have anti-inflammatory properties and may aid in digestion.
7. Malida (Healthy Whole Wheat Afghan Sweets)
The Afghani Malida Recipe is a traditional dessert from Afghanistan. It is a delicious sweet dish that holds cultural significance and is often served on special occasions and festivals. The preparation of this recipe involves a combination of ingredients that are commonly found in Afghan cuisine. The process of making Afghani Malida requires careful steps to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
This dessert has some health benefits as well. One of the primary ingredients used in the recipe is wheat, which provides a good amount of fiber and essential nutrients. Additionally, Afghani Malida includes dried fruits and nuts that offer various vitamins and minerals, promoting overall well-being. However, it is essential to consume this sweet dish in moderation due to its sugar content.
8. Kaddo (Afghan Pumpkin with Yogurt and Tomato Sauce)
The Afghani Kaddo Recipe is a traditional dish from Afghanistan. It is a flavorful and nutritious recipe that has been passed down through generations. This dish is made using pumpkin, which is cooked with various spices to create a delicious and aromatic flavor.
One of the key health benefits of the Afghani Kaddo Recipe is that it is rich in vitamins and minerals. Pumpkin is a good source of vitamin A, which is essential for maintaining healthy vision and a strong immune system. It also provides vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports skin health and boosts the immune system. Additionally, the dish contains fiber, which aids in digestion and helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied.
9. Dhoog Afghani Recipes (Cucumber Mint Buttermilk)
The Afghani Dhoog Recipe is a traditional dish from Afghanistan. It is a healthy and flavorful recipe enjoyed by many in the region. The dish is known for its simplicity and nutritional benefits. It contains a mix of spices and ingredients that make it delicious and nourishing.
The Afghani Dhoog Recipe is a type of stew made with tender pieces of meat and lentils. It is often cooked slowly to allow the flavors to blend together. The dish is typically served with rice or bread, making it a filling and satisfying meal.
10. Afghani Bolani Katchalu Recipe
The Afghani Bolani Katchalu Recipe is a traditional dish from Afghanistan. It is a popular snack or appetizer made with a special filling wrapped in thin dough. The filling typically consists of spiced mashed potatoes mixed with chives or green onions.
This dish is often served during celebrations and gatherings, as well as being a comforting meal at home. The process of making Bolani Katchalu involves rolling out the dough, adding the potato filling, and then folding it over before cooking.
11. Kabuli Pulao
The Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe is a traditional dish from Afghanistan. It is a flavorful rice dish that is often served on special occasions and gatherings. This dish is made using long-grain Basmati rice, tender pieces of meat (such as lamb, chicken, or beef), and a blend of aromatic spices. The key ingredients that give this recipe its distinct taste are the caramelized onions, raisins, and carrots, which add a sweet and savory flavor to the pulao.
In addition to its delicious taste, the Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe offers several health benefits. The Basmati rice used in the recipe is a good source of carbohydrates and provides energy to the body. The dish also contains proteins from the meat, which are essential for muscle building and repair. Moreover, the spices used in the pulao, such as cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon, are known to have various health-promoting properties. For example, they may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
12. Lubya (Afghan Kidney Bean Curry)
The Afghani Lubya Recipe is a traditional dish from Afghanistan. It is a flavorful and hearty stew made with beans and meat. This recipe is popular in Afghan cuisine and is enjoyed by people of all ages.
The main ingredients of Afghani Lubya are beans and meat. The beans add a good amount of fiber to the dish, which is good for digestion. The meat provides protein, which is important for building and repairing tissues in the body.
The dish is usually prepared by simmering the beans and meat together in a savory broth until they become tender and flavorful. This slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld and creates a rich and satisfying taste.
13. Borani Banjan (Afghan Eggplant With Yogurt Sauce)
The Afghani Borani Banjan Recipe is a traditional dish from Afghanistan that features layers of fried eggplant and a tangy tomato-based sauce. It is a flavorful and savory delight that showcases the rich culinary heritage of the region.
The preparation of this dish involves frying the eggplant until it becomes tender and golden-brown. Then, the fried eggplant slices are layered with a delicious tomato sauce that is infused with various spices to enhance the taste. The dish is often garnished with creamy yogurt and fresh herbs, adding a refreshing touch to the bold flavors.
14. Afghan-Style Pumpkin With Yogurt Sauce
The Afghan Style Pumpkin With Yogurt Sauce Recipe is a traditional dish from Afghanistan that combines tender pumpkin with a creamy yogurt sauce. The recipe is simple and easy to prepare. I cooked the pumpkin until it became soft and succulent, while the yogurt sauce adds a tangy and refreshing flavor to the dish.
This dish has several health benefits. Pumpkin is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. These nutrients support overall health and can boost the immune system. Pumpkin is low in calories and contains antioxidants that help protect the body from harmful, free radicals.
15. Aushak (Afghan Dumplings)
The Afghani Aushak Recipe is a delicious and traditional Afghan dish that is loved by everyone. It comprises dumplings filled with a flavorful mixture of leeks and scallions. We then topped the dumplings with a tangy yogurt sauce and a spiced tomato-based sauce, creating a burst of flavors in every bite.
Aushak recipes are relatively simple to make, and you can easily shape the dumplings by hand. I made the filling with fresh and aromatic vegetables, giving the dish a delightful taste and aroma. The yogurt sauce adds a creamy and refreshing element, while the tomato sauce brings a hint of spiciness.
16. Afghan Chicken in Yogurt
The Afghan Chicken in Yoghurt Recipe is a traditional dish that combines tender pieces of chicken with creamy yogurt. This recipe is a popular part of Afghan cuisine, known for its delicious taste and simplicity.
To make the Afghan Chicken in Yoghurt Recipe, you’ll need chicken pieces and plain yogurt as the key ingredients. I marinate the chicken in yogurt, allowing the meat to become tender and flavorful. The yogurt also helps to add a creamy texture to the dish. I then cooked the marinated chicken until it’s fully cooked and tender.
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