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  • recipe-book
  1. Afghan Culture
  2. Recipe Book

Afghan Recipe Book

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 recipes - 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. Also, be sure to check out our School Recipe Book if you're on the hunt for fun, classroom-friendly Afghan recipes 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.

Kadu Borani Recipe

Kadu Borani Recipe

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

Published: 12th October, 2020

Updated: 16th October, 2020

Author: Natalia Deane

Related topics:
  • Afghan Recipe Book
Qabuli Pulao Recipe

Qabuli Pulao Recipe

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

Published: 4th September, 2020

Updated: 6th January, 2021

Author: Kate Arthur

Related topics:
  • Afghan Recipe Book
Firni Recipe

Firni Recipe

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

Published: 18th May, 2020

Updated: 21st May, 2020

Author: Kate Arthur

Related topics:
  • Afghan Recipe Book
Aay Khanum Recipe

Aay Khanum Recipe

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

Published: 24th April, 2020

Updated: 28th April, 2020

Author: Kate Arthur

Related topics:
  • Afghan Recipe Book
Mantu Afghan Dumpling Recipe

Mantu Afghan Dumpling Recipe

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

Published: 18th February, 2020

Updated: 18th March, 2020

Author: Jonathan Walsh

Related topics:
  • Afghan Recipe Book
Maash Pulao Recipe

Maash Pulao Recipe

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

Published: 10th February, 2020

Updated: 4th January, 2021

Author: Kate Arthur

Related topics:
  • Afghan Recipe Book
Mastawa Lamb and Rice Recipe

Mastawa Lamb and Rice Recipe

Looking for a comforting dish? Why not try this traditional Afghan recipe for Mastawa, a warming stew perfect during chillier winter months. Read more

Published: 12th November, 2019

Updated: 28th January, 2020

Author: Rebecca Hodge

Related topics:
  • Afghan Recipe Book
Brilliant Bolani with Potato Filling

Brilliant Bolani with Potato Filling

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

Published: 23rd October, 2019

Updated: 24th April, 2020

Author: Jonathan Walsh

Related topics:
  • Afghan Recipe Book
Muraba-E-Kadu (Pumpkin Jam) Recipe

Muraba-E-Kadu (Pumpkin Jam) Recipe

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

Published: 1st October, 2019

Updated: 6th October, 2020

Author: Natalia Deane

Related topics:
  • Afghan Recipe Book
Fresh Ginger Dal Recipe

Fresh Ginger Dal Recipe

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

Published: 11th September, 2019

Updated: 24th January, 2020

Author: Rebecca Hodge

Related topics:
  • Afghan Recipe Book
Chutni Nahna (Mint Chutney) Recipe

Chutni Nahna (Mint Chutney) Recipe

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

Published: 2nd August, 2019

Updated: 24th January, 2020

Author: Rebecca Hodge

Related topics:
  • Afghan Recipe Book
Burta Aubergine Dip Recipe

Burta Aubergine Dip Recipe

Add some Afghan flavours to your picnics and barbecues with this recipe for Burta, a delicious and refreshing aubergine dip. Read more

Published: 1st July, 2019

Updated: 24th January, 2020

Author: Rebecca Hodge

Related topics:
  • Afghan Recipe Book
Goash-E-Feel Biscuits Recipe

Goash-E-Feel Biscuits Recipe

Celebrate Eid al-fitr (also known as 'Sweet Eid'), or sweeten up your June, with this tasty Afghan-style doughnut recipe. Read more

Published: 1st June, 2019

Updated: 19th May, 2020

Author: Rebecca Hodge

Related topics:
  • Afghan Recipe Book
Afghan Chili Kofte Kebabs

Afghan Chili Kofte Kebabs

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

Published: 16th April, 2019

Updated: 19th June, 2020

Author: Rebecca Hodge

Related topics:
  • Afghan Recipe Book
Murgh-E-Shekam Pur Recipe (Afghan Stuffed Chicken)

Murgh-E-Shekam Pur Recipe (Afghan Stuffed Chicken)

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

Published: 20th March, 2019

Updated: 24th January, 2020

Author: Rebecca Hodge

Related topics:
  • Afghan Recipe Book
Melt-in-your-mouth biscuits

Melt-in-your-mouth biscuits

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

Published: 19th March, 2019

Updated: 26th May, 2020

Author: Rebecca Hodge

Related topics:
  • Afghan Recipe Book
Aush-E-Asli Recipe (Afghan Pasta & Meatballs)

Aush-E-Asli Recipe (Afghan Pasta & Meatballs)

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

Published: 28th February, 2019

Updated: 22nd January, 2020

Author: Rebecca Hodge

Related topics:
  • Afghan Recipe Book
Norinj Pilau Recipe

Norinj Pilau Recipe

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

Published: 25th January, 2019

Updated: 22nd January, 2020

Author: Rebecca Hodge

Related topics:
  • Afghan Recipe Book
Qorma- E-Gul-E-Karaml Recipe

Qorma- E-Gul-E-Karaml Recipe

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

Published: 15th January, 2019

Updated: 10th February, 2020

Author: Rebecca Hodge

Related topics:
  • Afghan Recipe Book
Burani Bonjon Recipe

Burani Bonjon Recipe

Burani Bonjon is made by layering aubergine and garlic sauce, and tastes perfect with rice or naans - a delicious veggie crowd pleaser! Read more

Published: 19th November, 2018

Updated: 28th April, 2020

Author: Rebecca Hodge

Related topics:
  • Afghan Recipe Book
Qorma Chalau Recipe

Qorma Chalau Recipe

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

Published: 22nd October, 2018

Updated: 25th August, 2020

Author: Rebecca Hodge

Related topics:
  • Afghan Recipe Book
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