| The type of food served in Afghan
cuisine is quite unique. It has been well documented that the foods, tastes
and spices of Afghan food are a rather tasteful blend of the regions that
surround Afghanistan. Unlike food from it's neighbors to the east, the
spices used in Afghan dishes, are neither too hot nor pungent, and in
contrast to it's western neighbors, Afghan food is not bland. In fact may
western travelers find the foods of Afghanistan a perfect blend of
exoticness and good taste.
Cooking and food has a very important role in Afghan culture. Unexpected
guests might be seen as rude or an imposition in western culture, but not in
Afghan culture. Guests are revered and even in families, people often just
drop in with little or no notice and to not have food for them would be
unheard of even in the most spur of the moment situations. Coming away from
an Afghan table hungry is simply never happens, no matter how little
preparation time the host has.
The types off food served are also symbolic for example Qaabuli Pallow is
the crown of Afghan cooking and served to special guests or on special
occasions such as weddings. Letee is served to new mothers because of its
easy on the stomach yet high nutritive value. Dogh is best enjoyed on a hot
summer's day and Mahi is served during Nowroz (New Year). Even eggs are
prepared in a special way so that a guest is well nourished when they wake
up. Afghans also believe food is elemental in nature, and can produce hot or
cold, or be neutral in the body. Food is well appreciated and even has
special meaning as stepping on a piece of dropped bread is considered
sinful.
Afghans take great pride in their cooking and are very happy to see
everyone full and satisfied. Afghan cooking is not about exact measurements,
and many of the ingredients can be substituted to achieve a similar taste.
The amounts of all of the spices can be adjusted to suit your individual
tastes. No two Afghans prepare the same dish exactly the same. Creativity is
another element that contributes to the wonderful medley of flavors that
make up Afghan cooking. Prepare these recipes with love and Nosh-e- Jaan, or
good eating.
by Christi Qazi / June 05, 2007
Section last updated on August 25, 2008 |
Aprons
I ♥Afghanistan Apron
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