20 Flavorful Afghan Food Recipes Authentic

The rich and flavorful cuisine of Afghanistan is a true reflection of its cultural heritage. With a history that spans thousands of years, Afghan cooking has been influenced by various empires and dynasties, resulting in a unique blend of Middle Eastern, South Asian, and Mediterranean flavors. From hearty soups to fragrant rice dishes, savory meatballs to sweet pastries, Afghan food is known for its bold aromas and vibrant colors.

In this article, we will explore 20 authentic Afghan recipes that will transport you to the bustling streets of Kabul or the tranquil valleys of Herat. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking to try something new, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more. So, let’s embark on a culinary journey through Afghanistan and discover the secrets behind its delectable dishes.

Afghan Bolani with Potato and Leek Filling

Afghan Bolani with Potato and Leek Filling
A classic Afghan dish, Bolani is a savory pastry filled with a delicious potato and leek mixture. This recipe serves 4-6 people.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Filling ingredients:
+ 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
+ 2 leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced
+ 1 onion, finely chopped
+ 1 clove garlic, minced
+ Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
4. Roll out each ball into a thin circle.
5. Place a tablespoon or two of the potato and leek filling in the center of each circle.
6. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape, pressing edges together to seal.
7. Fry Bolani in hot oil until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
8. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Kabuli Pulao with Fragrant Basmati Rice

Kabuli Pulao with Fragrant Basmati Rice
A classic Afghan dish, Kabuli Pulao is a flavorful and aromatic rice recipe infused with spices, nuts, and dried fruits. This comforting meal is perfect for special occasions or everyday enjoyment.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, and pistachios)
– 1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1/4 cup raisins

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the ghee or oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion, cumin seeds, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and red chili powder. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir well. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the water to the saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
5. Mix in the nuts, apricots, and raisins. Serve hot.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Mantu Dumplings with Spiced Ground Beef

Mantu Dumplings with Spiced Ground Beef
Discover the flavors of Central Asia with these tender dumplings filled with aromatic spiced ground beef. Mantu is a traditional Afghan and Uzbek dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or as an appetizer.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 cup lukewarm water
– Vegetable oil for cooking
– Mantu dough (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. In a large pan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pan. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Mix in the flour and lukewarm water to create a thick paste.
4. Wrap 1-2 tbsp of the spiced ground beef mixture in a Mantu dough wrapper. Seal the edges by pressing them together with your fingers.
5. Cook the dumplings in a large skillet or wok with about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Ashak Scallion Dumplings with Yogurt Sauce

Ashak Scallion Dumplings with Yogurt Sauce
A classic Afghan dish, Ashak is a flavorful and aromatic treat that combines the savory taste of scallions with the richness of yogurt. This recipe brings you the comforting fusion of these two ingredients in a delicious dumpling form.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large scallion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into small portions and roll each into a ball.
5. Flatten each ball slightly and place a few chopped scallions in the center.
6. Fold the dough over the scallions, forming a triangle or sphere shape.
7. Heat oil in a pan and cook the dumplings until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per side).
8. Serve hot with a dollop of yogurt sauce (mix plain yogurt with salt to taste).

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Afghan Lamb Qorma with Rich Tomato Gravy

Afghan Lamb Qorma with Rich Tomato Gravy
Experience the bold flavors of Afghanistan with this hearty lamb dish smothered in a rich and tangy tomato gravy. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into small pieces
– 2 medium onions, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onions, garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook until onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, and tomato paste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until lamb is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over basmati rice.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Borani Banjan Eggplant with Garlic Yogurt

Borani Banjan Eggplant with Garlic Yogurt
Experience the flavors of Afghanistan with this creamy and savory eggplant dish, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as an accompaniment to grilled meats.

Ingredients:

– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup garlic yogurt (see below for recipe)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Garlic Yogurt Recipe:

– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil.
3. Roast the eggplant in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the garlic yogurt by mixing all ingredients together in a bowl.
5. Once the eggplant is done, let it cool slightly before serving with the garlic yogurt spooned over the top.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Afghan Chicken Karahi with Spicy Tomato Sauce

Afghan Chicken Karahi with Spicy Tomato Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of Afghanistan with this mouthwatering dish, where tender chicken is cooked to perfection in a spicy tomato sauce. This classic karahi recipe is a staple of Afghan cuisine, and its fiery kick will leave you craving for more.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2-3 green chilies, chopped
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp garam masala
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large karahi or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onions, chilies, cumin, garam masala, and cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes and salt. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over basmati rice.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Shorwa Hearty Afghan Soup with Vegetables

Shorwa Hearty Afghan Soup with Vegetables
A traditional Afghan soup that’s warm, comforting, and packed with nutrients. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or as a main course for a special occasion.

Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and grated
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, and bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Afghan Naan Bread Baked in a Tandoor

Afghan Naan Bread Baked in a Tandoor
Experience the authentic taste of Afghanistan with this traditional naan bread recipe, baked to perfection in a tandoor oven. This soft and flavorful flatbread is perfect for sopping up curries or stews.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 cup lukewarm water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, baking powder, and sugar.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water to form a smooth dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes until the dough becomes elastic.
3. Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into an oval shape.
5. Heat the tandoor to 400°F (200°C). Place the naan breads on the preheated tandoor stones or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the naan breads are golden brown and puffed up.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total

Sabzi Challow Spinach Stew with Rice

Sabzi Challow Spinach Stew with Rice
A flavorful and comforting Pakistani dish that combines the nutrients of spinach with the simplicity of cooked rice. This Sabzi Challow recipe is a staple in many households, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound fresh spinach leaves
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the ghee or oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cumin powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
6. Add the cooked rice to the saucepan, stirring well to combine.
7. Add 2 cups of water to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
8. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Afghan Kofta Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

Afghan Kofta Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
Discover the flavors of Afghanistan with these tender kofta meatballs cooked to perfection in a rich and tangy tomato sauce.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, ginger, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, heat crushed tomatoes and chopped onion in a large saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer.
6. Add baked meatballs to the tomato sauce and stir to coat. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Kebab-e-Murgh Grilled Chicken Skewers

Kebab-e-Murgh Grilled Chicken Skewers
A flavorful and aromatic Indian-inspired dish that combines the tender taste of chicken with the vibrant flavors of spices. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as an appetizer.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for brushing

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush with vegetable oil and season with salt. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Afghan Aushak Handmade Scallion Dumplings

Afghan Aushak Handmade Scallion Dumplings
Aushak is a traditional Afghan dish that consists of small dumplings filled with scallions and spices, served with a yogurt-based sauce. This recipe is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this popular Afghan treat.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup finely chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt, to taste
– Yogurt-based sauce (recipe not included)

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, warm water, salt, and baking powder. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a walnut.
4. Roll out each ball into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
5. Place a tablespoon or two of scallion mixture in the center of each circle.
6. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or square shape, and press edges together to seal.
7. Cook dumplings in boiling water for 10-15 minutes or until they float to the surface.
8. Serve with yogurt-based sauce.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Qabili Palau with Carrots and Raisins

Qabili Palau with Carrots and Raisins
A traditional Afghan dish, Qabili Palau is a flavorful rice pilaf cooked with carrots, raisins, and spices. This recipe adds a sweet and savory twist to the classic.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 large carrot, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup golden raisins
– 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the ghee or oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the grated carrot and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the soaked and drained rice to the saucepan, stirring to combine with the carrots and spices.
4. Cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
5. Stir in the raisins and season with salt to taste.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Afghan Sheer Khurma Sweet Vermicelli Dessert

Afghan Sheer Khurma Sweet Vermicelli Dessert
Sheer Khurma is a beloved Afghan dessert that’s perfect for special occasions and celebrations. This sweet vermicelli pudding is flavored with cardamom, saffron, and nuts, making it a delightful treat for anyone who tries it.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup vermicelli (thin rice noodles)
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/8 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds or pistachios
– 1 tablespoon ghee or unsalted butter

Instructions:

1. Cook the vermicelli according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large saucepan, combine milk, sugar, cardamom, and saffron mixture. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. Add the cooked vermicelli to the milk mixture and stir well.
4. Remove from heat and stir in chopped nuts and ghee or butter.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Afghan Firni Creamy Cardamom Rice Pudding

Afghan Firni Creamy Cardamom Rice Pudding
In Afghanistan, firni is a beloved dessert made with rice, milk, and spices. This creamy cardamom-infused version is a delicious twist on the classic recipe.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup long-grain rice
– 3 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon ghee or unsalted butter
– Chopped pistachios and dried fruits for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, cardamom, and salt. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add the ghee or butter to the milk mixture and stir until melted.
4. Add the soaked rice to the saucepan and stir gently to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and creamy.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped pistachios and dried fruits, if desired.

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Afghan Mantu with Yogurt and Lentil Sauce

Afghan Mantu with Yogurt and Lentil Sauce
Mantu are traditional Afghan dumplings filled with spiced meat and onions, served with a tangy yogurt and lentil sauce. This recipe is a flavorful twist on the classic dish.

Ingredients:

For the mantu:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste

For the yogurt and lentil sauce:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup cooked red or green lentils
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat a large pot of boiling water.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, and ground cumin. Mix well.
3. Place a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place 1-2 teaspoons of the meat mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Cook the mantu in boiling water for 10-12 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
7. While the mantu are cooking, combine the yogurt, cooked lentils, lemon juice, and ground cumin in a serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve the cooked mantu hot with the yogurt and lentil sauce spooned over the top.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Afghan Shami Kebab Spiced Beef Patties

Afghan Shami Kebab Spiced Beef Patties
Experience the bold flavors of Afghanistan with these mouthwatering Shami Kebabs, also known as spiced beef patties. A popular street food in Kabul and beyond, they’re perfect for a quick snack or meal.

Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Cooking oil or ghee for frying

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, cumin powder, coriander powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
2. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired patty size. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into patties.
3. Heat about 1 inch of oil or ghee in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, until cooked through.
4. Remove from heat and serve hot with your choice of accompaniments, such as naan bread, rice, and salad.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Afghan Chapli Kebab Spiced Ground Beef

Afghan Chapli Kebab Spiced Ground Beef
Experience the bold and aromatic flavors of Afghanistan with this spiced ground beef recipe, perfect for skewering and serving.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Thread meat mixture onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush with lemon juice and olive oil. Cook for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes

Afghan Gosh-e-Feel Elephant Ear Pastry

Afghan Gosh-e-Feel Elephant Ear Pastry
A classic Afghan treat, Gosh-e-Feel is a flaky pastry filled with nuts and spices, perfect for a sweet or savory snack. This recipe yields 6-8 elephant ear pastries.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
– Filling ingredients (see below)

Filling:

– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or almonds
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add oil and lukewarm water to form a dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 portions.
5. Roll out each portion into a thin circle (about 1/16 inch thick).
6. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle.
7. Fold the dough over the filling to form an elephant ear shape, and press edges together to seal.
8. Brush with egg wash or milk for a golden glaze.
9. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Summary

Discover the flavors of Afghanistan with these 20 authentic recipes. From savory dishes like Afghan Bolani with Potato and Leek Filling, Kabuli Pulao with Fragrant Basmati Rice, and Mantu Dumplings with Spiced Ground Beef, to sweet treats like Afghan Sheer Khurma Sweet Vermicelli Dessert and Afghan Firni Creamy Cardamom Rice Pudding. Explore the country’s rich culinary heritage through recipes like Shorwa Hearty Afghan Soup with Vegetables, Afghan Naan Bread Baked in a Tandoor, and many more. Perfect for foodies looking to spice up their cooking repertoire or those seeking to connect with Afghan culture.

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