Indulge in the rich flavors of Afghanistan with our mouthwatering Afghan Qabuli Palaw recipe. This traditional dish combines fragrant rice pilaf with tender lamb, sweet carrots, and plump raisins, accompanied by crispy Qutab flatbreads. Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests, this recipe will transport your taste buds to the heart of Afghan cuisine.
What is Afghan Qabuli Palaw ?
Qabuli Palaw, also known as Kabuli Pulao, is Afghanistan’s national dish. It’s a aromatic rice pilaf cooked with succulent lamb, carrots, and raisins, offering a delightful balance of savory and sweet flavors.
Ingredients
For Qabuli Palaw:
- 2 cups long-grain basmati rice
- 1.5 pounds lamb, diced
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup golden raisins
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Qutab:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh dill or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the rice: Rinse basmati rice until water runs clear. Soak in cold water for 30 minutes, then drain.
- Cook the lamb: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced lamb and cook until browned on all sides. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until golden brown and fragrant.
- Add vegetables: Stir in julienned carrots and cook for 5-7 minutes until slightly tender.
- Combine flavors: Return lamb to the skillet. Add raisins, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes to meld flavors.
- Cook the rice: In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add rice and saffron threads. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is partially cooked.
- Layer the dish: In a deep pot, layer half the rice, then the lamb mixture, and top with remaining rice. Pour 1/2 cup water over the layers.
- Steam to perfection: Cover the pot tightly and cook on low heat for 30-40 minutes until rice is fully cooked and fluffy.
- Prepare Qutab dough: Mix flour, water, salt, and olive oil in a bowl. Knead until smooth. Roll out into thin circles.
- Cook Qutab: Heat a griddle or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook Qutab for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly crispy.
Serve your homemade Afghan Qabuli Palaw hot, garnished with additional fried raisins and carrots if desired. Accompany with warm Qutab for an authentic Afghan dining experience.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 580 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 75g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
Tips for the Perfect Qabuli Palaw
- Use high-quality basmati rice for the best texture and aroma.
- Don’t skip the lamb browning step – it adds depth to the dish.
- Adjust spices to your taste preference.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute lamb with chickpeas or lentils.
Cultural Significance
Qabuli Palaw is more than just a meal in Afghan culture. It’s often served at important gatherings and celebrations, symbolizing hospitality and respect for guests.
Mastering the art of Afghan Qabuli Palaw is a rewarding culinary adventure that brings the exotic flavors of Afghanistan right to your kitchen. This beloved dish, with its aromatic rice, tender lamb, and sweet accents of carrots and raisins, is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of Afghan culture and hospitality.
By following our detailed 10-step recipe, you’ve not only created a delicious dish but also embarked on a journey through Afghan cuisine. The combination of Qabuli Palaw with freshly made Qutab offers a complete and authentic dining experience that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.
Remember, cooking is an art, and each time you prepare this dish, you’ll discover new nuances and potentially add your own twist. Don’t be afraid to experiment with spice levels or try vegetarian variations to suit your taste preferences.
We hope this recipe has inspired you to explore more of Afghanistan’s rich culinary traditions. Share your Qabuli Palaw creations with us and continue your global cooking adventure with our other international recipes. Happy cooking, and bon appétit—or as they say in Afghanistan, “Nosh-e jan”!
Discover more about Afghan cuisine and its rich history here.
