The vast array of geographical and cultural influences can be tasted in Afghan cuisine, with the country's regional specialities reflecting the variety found across the country. Hospitality is an integral part of Afghan culture, with the best possible food being served for guests, always following a cup of tea of course. Food is traditionally eaten communally, sat on large colourful cushions called toshak.
Browse below a collection of our favourite appetisers, mains and desserts - some for special occasions and some that will add a taste of Afghanistan to your usual weekday menu.
We've also created a Dinner Party Guide to help you - our incredible supporters - host your very own #MyAfghanEvening. On the hunt for fun, classroom-friendly Afghan recipes? Be sure to check out our School Recipe Book filled with recipes that are perfect for cooking classes or the next school bake-sale!
Have a recipe request or recommendation? Get in touch and let us know - we'd love to hear from you.
A staple Afghan tea, Kahwah is mild and fragrant, and recipes tend to differ from family to family. Level-up your afternoon tea break and give this delicious saffron-infused blend a try. Read more
No spread of Afghan food is complete without tea, which is consumed in great quantities throughout the country. Try this amazing Ginger Tea recipe as a soothing after dinner refreshment. Read more
Get into the autumnal spirit and enjoy sweet and savoury all at the same time with this seasonal squash recipe. Follow this step by step guide of how to make Kadu Borani - a family recipe from a friend of Afghanaid's. Read more
Using white, long grain rice is the key to perfecting Afghanistan's national dish, which is packed with flavour. There are many different recipes for Qabuli Pulao, but we think this is the easiest for first-timers! Read more
Follow our recipe for Firni - a light, easy-to-make custard which is often made for special occasions in Afghanistan like iftar during Ramadan or Eid celebrations. Read more
The majority of our staff here at Afghanaid are now navigating Ramadan in lockdown, so we wanted to share some of their go-to recipes for the breaking of the fast, iftar. First up: Aay Khanum. Read more
Mantu is a traditional Uzbek dish, that can be served either as a main dish or as a starter typically eaten before a pilau. To make this recipe you'll need a steamer. It takes some work, but it's all worth it in the end! Read more
Pack your dinner with nutritious mung beans using our recipe for Maash Pulao! Mung beans are an Afghan speciality that are not only nutritious - they also contribute to sustainable agriculture and food systems, helping to decrease greenhouse gases and increase soil health, all whilst using less water than other crops. Read more
Looking for a comforting dish? Why not try this traditional Afghan recipe for Mastawa, a warming stew perfect during chillier winter months. Read more
These crispy stuffed Afghan flatbreads are a simple way of adding something new to your repertoire, and are delicious whether served as part of a larger dinner spread or on their own! Read more
Not sure what to do with the excess pumpkin leftover after carving your spooky creation – look no further! Avoid food waste and use your leftovers to conjure up a tasty Afghan treat instead. Read more
As the season changes, now's the perfect time to try out this Afghan recipe for dal - flavoured with fresh ginger, it's great at fighting off colds and flu. Read more
For a real taste of summer, why not try making "Chutni Nahna" a light mint chutney that tastes great with rice, vegetables or kebabs! Read more
Add some Afghan flavours to your picnics and barbecues with this recipe for Burta, a delicious and refreshing aubergine dip. Read more
Celebrate Eid al-fitr (also known as 'Sweet Eid'), or sweeten up your June, with this tasty Afghan-style doughnut recipe. Read more
Spice up your evening with this sizzling recipe - inspired by our spice of the month, these Kofte Kebabs are infused with Murch-e-sia (or chilli powder) and make the perfect addition to any BBQ! Read more
Saffron is claimed to help regulate blood sugar levels. Try this stuffed Chicken dish, Murgh-E-Shekam Pur, which is often made for celebrations in Afghanistan. Read more
Made all year round, but especially popular during Nowruz, Ab-E-Dandon literally translates as melt in your mouth biscuits! With flavours of pistachio and cardamom they taste great served with green tea. Read more
Ground Coriander or Tokhum-e-gashneez is rich in iron, and has been shown to help lower cholesterol naturally. Check out our recipe for Aush-E-Asli - a unique Afghan dish which is real comfort food. Read more
Cardamom, or Hail, helps digestion and detoxifies the body – perfect after all that winter comfort eating! Warm up your evenings with Norinj Pilau, a sweet and spicy Afghan dish that has a delicate flavour. Read more
Turmeric is an anti-inflammatory, perfect for fighting infection during the colder months! This warming cauliflower stew, Qorma- E-Gul-E-Karaml is a popular dish during the winter in Afghanistan. Read more
Burani Bonjon is made by layering aubergine and garlic sauce, and tastes perfect with rice or naans - a delicious veggie crowd pleaser! Read more
There are many delicious Qorma recipes used across Afghanistan - this is one of the most traditional and includes meat, however this can easily be substituted for veg (or you can always use both!) Read more