When we talk about Afghani food, it is somehow different from the rest of the South Asian countries. The main difference is that Afghani food is not that heavily spicy like Pakistani, Indian or Bangladeshi food. In fact, Afghani food is either non-spicy or it contains a smaller amount of spice which provides a completely different taste to Afghani cuisine.
KABULI PULAO:
Kabuli Pulao is considered as the National dish of Afghanistan. Pulao is named after the city of “Kabul”. There is a saying that this dish was invented and eaten by the upper class families of Kabul a long time ago but after that with the passage of time, it became the part of Afghani culture.
Kabuli Pulao is mainly prepared from rice and chunks of Lamb meat. Later on, carrots, almonds, raisins, sweet spices and pistachios are added to it. Pulao has a sweet and savory taste.
DO PYAZA:
Do Pyaza is one of the mouth watering dishes from Afghanistan. It is prepared from the meat of mutton or lamb with a certain proportion of onion. Usually, it is said that with 500 grams of meat, there should be two complete onions (finely sliced). Other ingredients include Ginger Garlic paste, black pepper and cooking oil. This dish is usually eaten with Afghani Naan.
SAJJI:
The dish is traditionally made from lamb meat or with chicken as the substitute of lamb. The meat is marinated in salt and then roasted between medium to well-cooked. It is usually enjoyed with naan. Sometimes, it is served with rice as a side dish.
BOLANI:
Bolani is one of the most famous street foods in Afghanistan. It is a flatbread that is filled with a variety of ingredients as filling and then it is fried. Fillings may include mashed potatoes, lentils or meat. This light dish is highly recommended to be eaten at least once.
CHOPAN KABAB:
Chopan Kabab is an exclusive Pashtoon Dish famous all over. The mutton or lamb meat is marinated before cooking. Then the meat is grilled in traditional portable grills. Once the dish is ready to serve, it is juicy, spicy and delicious enough to make your dinner memorable.
CHAINAKI (ROSH):
Chainaki is a traditional dish from Afghanistan that is made from lamb meat and is rich in fat and flavor. It is served with naan.
AFGHANI NAAN (BREAD):
Afghani naan is a type of flatbread that is an exclusive part of Afghani Cuisine. It is made from wheat flour, water, and salt. It is cooked in a large round and oval shape. This bread is eaten with countless dishes like Sajji, Chopan Kabab, Rosh and many other dishes.
KEHVA – HERBAL TEA:
Kehva is a green tea which is a strong part of Afghani culture, also known as National Afghani Drink. It is a light tea with delicious aroma. It is usually taken after the meal as it is good for digestion, heart, metabolism and many other things. This tea is not only famous in Afghanistan but also in the Northern part of Pakistan and some parts of Iran.
ACCORDING TO THE NATIVE FARID FROM AFGHANISTAN:
AASH:
Aash is a Vegetable Noodle Soup usually taken at different occasions including the Holy Month of Ramadan.
SHEER YAKH (AFGHANI ICE CREAM):
Sheer Yakh is a famous Afghani Ice Cream. The word “Sheer Yakh” means Frozen Milk. It is one of the most famous desserts among the children. It is usually prepared from milk, sugar, rose water, and cardamom. To increase the taste, the toppings of thick cream, crushed pistachios and almonds are also added.
NOTE: We are thankful to the following for the research work.
https://restaurantclicks.com/most-popular-afghan-food/
https://nomadsunveiled.com/traditional-afghan-food-in-afghanistan/