10 Best Afghan Mastava Recipes

Welcome to the world of the food from Afghanistan, where Mastava is celebrated as one of the most cherished dishes. This article will take you on a culinary journey through the top 10 best Afghan Mastava recipes. From the classic Mastava with rice and meat to the delightful vegetable Mastava, these recipes will showcase the versatility and rich flavors of this traditional dish. Whether you’re new to Afghan Mastava recipes or a seasoned cook looking for new ideas, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds.

Mastava Recipes

Discover the rich and diverse world of Mastava Recipes, where traditional Afghan flavors meet modern culinary techniques to create unforgettable dishes. Click to open the recipe boxes.

Classic Afghan Mastava

Classic Afghan Mastava is a comforting and hearty Afghan dish that combines tender lamb with basmati rice, vegetables, and warm spices in a rich chicken broth. This flavorful stew is perfect for those who enjoy a satisfying and aromatic meal, enhanced with fresh herbs and earthy spices.

Classic Afghan Mastava Ingredients:

• 500g lamb, cubed
• 1 cup basmati rice
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1.5 liters chicken broth
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a pot and brown the lamb. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté the onion until soft. Add the garlic, turmeric, cumin, and coriander.
3. Add the carrots, tomatoes, and bell pepper, cooking until softened.
4. Return the lamb to the pot, pour in the chicken broth, and bring to a boil.
5. Stir in the rice, reduce heat, and simmer until the lamb and rice are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Texture:

Classic Afghan Mastava offers a delightful combination of textures. The lamb is tender and juicy, melting in your mouth with each bite. The basmati rice is perfectly cooked, fluffy, and light, providing a wonderful contrast to the tender lamb. The vegetables add a mix of soft and slightly firm textures, creating a hearty base. The broth is rich and envelops each ingredient, making the dish cohesive and comforting. The fresh cilantro garnish adds a touch of freshness and a slight crunch.

Fragrance:

As the Mastava simmers, it fills the kitchen with an inviting and aromatic blend of scents. The earthy and warm notes of turmeric, cumin, and coriander create a rich, spicy base. The garlic and onions add a robust, savory aroma, while the browning lamb releases a deep, meaty fragrance. The simmering chicken broth adds depth, and the fresh cilantro garnishing the dish provides a bright, herbal scent. Together, these aromas promise a comforting and flavorful meal.

Taste:

Upon tasting Classic Afghan Mastava, you’ll experience a harmonious blend of rich and aromatic flavors. The lamb is succulent and flavorful, absorbing the aromatic spices during cooking. The basmati rice is perfectly seasoned, with each grain carrying a hint of the warm spices. The vegetables contribute their natural sweetness and slight earthiness, balancing the dish’s savory elements. The turmeric adds a subtle bitterness, the cumin provides warmth and smokiness, and the coriander imparts a citrusy, slightly nutty flavor. Salt and pepper enhance all these flavors, making each bite deeply satisfying. The fresh cilantro garnish adds a burst of fresh, slightly tangy taste that brightens the overall flavor profile.

Serving Suggestion:

Serve Classic Afghan Mastava hot, garnished with fresh cilantro for an added burst of color and freshness. This dish makes an excellent main course for a hearty and comforting dinner, especially when paired with warm naan bread or a fresh salad. Enjoy the rich and flavorful experience of Classic Afghan Mastava, where each bite brings a taste of comforting flavors, highlighting the perfect blend of tender lamb, fluffy rice, and aromatic spices.

Chicken Afghan Mastava

Chicken Afghan Mastava is a comforting and hearty Afghan dish that combines tender chicken breast with basmati rice, vegetables, and warm spices in a rich chicken broth. This flavorful stew is perfect for those who enjoy a satisfying and aromatic meal, enhanced with fresh herbs and earthy spices.

Chicken Afghan Mastava Ingredients:

• 500g chicken breast, cubed
• 1 cup basmati rice
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp coriander
• Salt and pepper toA ² taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1.5 liters chicken broth
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a pot and brown the chicken. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté the onion until soft. Add the garlic, paprika, cumin, and coriander.
3. Add the carrots, tomatoes, and zucchini, cooking until softened.
4. Return the chicken to the pot, pour in the chicken broth, and bring to a boil.
5. Stir in the rice, reduce heat, and simmer until the chicken and rice are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Texture:

Chicken Afghan Mastava offers a delightful combination of textures. The chicken breast is tender and juicy, providing a satisfying bite with each spoonful. The basmati rice is perfectly cooked, fluffy, and light, blending seamlessly with the tender chicken. The vegetables, including carrots, tomatoes, and zucchini, add a mix of soft and slightly firm textures, creating a hearty base. The broth is rich and envelops each ingredient, making the dish cohesive and comforting. The fresh parsley garnish adds a touch of freshness and a slight crunch.

Fragrance:

As the Mastava simmers, it fills the kitchen with an inviting and aromatic blend of scents. The warm and earthy notes of paprika, cumin, and coriander create a rich, spicy base. The garlic and onions add a robust, savory aroma, while the browning chicken releases a comforting, meaty fragrance. The simmering chicken broth adds depth, and the fresh parsley garnishing the dish provides a bright, herbal scent. Together, these aromas promise a comforting and flavorful meal.

Taste:

Upon tasting Chicken Afghan Mastava, you’ll experience a harmonious blend of rich and aromatic flavors. The chicken is succulent and flavorful, absorbing the aromatic spices during cooking. The basmati rice is perfectly seasoned, with each grain carrying a hint of the warm spices. The vegetables contribute their natural sweetness and slight earthiness, balancing the dish’s savory elements. The paprika adds a subtle smokiness, the cumin provides warmth and depth, and the coriander imparts a citrusy, slightly nutty flavor. Salt and pepper enhance all these flavors, making each bite deeply satisfying. The fresh parsley garnish adds a burst of fresh, slightly tangy taste that brightens the overall flavor profile.

Serving Suggestion:

Serve Chicken Afghan Mastava hot, garnished with fresh parsley for an added burst of color and freshness. This dish makes an excellent main course for a hearty and comforting dinner, especially when paired with warm naan bread or a fresh salad. Enjoy the rich and flavorful experience of Chicken Afghan Mastava, where each bite brings a taste of comforting flavors, highlighting the perfect blend of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and aromatic spices.

Vegetarian Afghan Mastava

Vegetarian Afghan Mastava is a comforting and hearty Afghan dish that combines basmati rice with an array of fresh vegetables and warm spices in a rich vegetable broth. This flavorful stew is perfect for those who enjoy a satisfying and aromatic meal, enhanced with fresh herbs and earthy spices.

Vegetarian Afghan Mastava Ingredients:

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup green beans, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1.5 liters vegetable broth
• Fresh mint for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a pot and sauté the onion until soft. Add the garlic, turmeric, cumin, and coriander.
2. Add the carrots, tomatoes, bell pepper, zucchini, and green beans, cooking until softened.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
4. Stir in the rice, reduce heat, and simmer until the rice is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh mint before serving.

Texture:

Vegetarian Afghan Mastava offers a delightful combination of textures. The basmati rice is perfectly cooked, fluffy, and light, providing a wonderful base for the stew. The assortment of vegetables, including carrots, tomatoes, bell pepper, zucchini, and green beans, adds a mix of soft and slightly firm textures, creating a hearty and satisfying dish. The broth is rich and envelops each ingredient, making the dish cohesive and comforting. The fresh mint garnish adds a touch of freshness and a slight crunch.

Fragrance:

As the Mastava simmers, it fills the kitchen with an inviting and aromatic blend of scents. The warm and earthy notes of turmeric, cumin, and coriander create a rich, spicy base. The garlic and onions add a robust, savory aroma, while the simmering vegetable broth enhances the overall fragrance with a comforting depth. The fresh mint garnishing the dish provides a bright, herbal scent that balances the earthy spices. Together, these aromas promise a comforting and flavorful meal.

Taste:

Upon tasting Vegetarian Afghan Mastava, you’ll experience a harmonious blend of rich and aromatic flavors. The basmati rice is perfectly seasoned, with each grain carrying a hint of the warm spices. The vegetables contribute their natural sweetness and slight earthiness, balancing the dish’s savory elements. The turmeric adds a subtle bitterness, the cumin provides warmth and depth, and the coriander imparts a citrusy, slightly nutty flavor. Salt and pepper enhance all these flavors, making each bite deeply satisfying. The fresh mint garnish adds a burst of fresh, slightly tangy taste that brightens the overall flavor profile.

Serving Suggestion:

Serve Vegetarian Afghan Mastava hot, garnished with fresh mint for an added burst of color and freshness. This dish makes an excellent main course for a hearty and comforting dinner, especially when paired with warm naan bread or a fresh salad. Enjoy the rich and flavorful experience of Vegetarian Afghan Mastava, where each bite brings a taste of comforting flavors, highlighting the perfect blend of fluffy rice, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices.

Beef Afghan Mastava

Beef Afghan Mastava is a comforting and hearty Afghan dish that combines tender beef stew meat with basmati rice, vegetables, and warm spices in a rich beef broth. This flavorful stew is perfect for those who enjoy a satisfying and aromatic meal, enhanced with fresh herbs and earthy spices.

Beef Afghan Mastava Ingredients:

• 500g beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 cup basmati rice
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 potato, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1.5 liters beef broth
• Fresh dill for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a pot and brown the beef. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté the onion until soft. Add the garlic, turmeric, cumin, and coriander.
3. Add the carrots, tomatoes, bell pepper, and potato, cooking until softened.
4. Return the beef to the pot, pour in the beef broth, and bring to a boil.
5. Stir in the rice, reduce heat, and simmer until the beef and rice are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh dill before serving.

Texture:

Beef Afghan Mastava offers a delightful combination of textures. The beef stew meat is tender and juicy, providing a hearty bite with each spoonful. The basmati rice is perfectly cooked, fluffy, and light, blending seamlessly with the tender beef. The assortment of vegetables, including carrots, tomatoes, bell pepper, and potato, adds a mix of soft and slightly firm textures, creating a hearty base. The broth is rich and envelops each ingredient, making the dish cohesive and comforting. The fresh dill garnish adds a touch of freshness and a slight crunch.

Fragrance:

As the Mastava simmers, it fills the kitchen with an inviting and aromatic blend of scents. The warm and earthy notes of turmeric, cumin, and coriander create a rich, spicy base. The garlic and onions add a robust, savory aroma, while the browning beef releases a comforting, meaty fragrance. The simmering beef broth enhances the overall fragrance with a deep, hearty aroma. The fresh dill garnishing the dish provides a bright, herbal scent that balances the earthy spices. Together, these aromas promise a comforting and flavorful meal.

Taste:

Upon tasting Beef Afghan Mastava, you’ll experience a harmonious blend of rich and aromatic flavors. The beef is succulent and flavorful, absorbing the aromatic spices during cooking. The basmati rice is perfectly seasoned, with each grain carrying a hint of the warm spices. The vegetables contribute their natural sweetness and slight earthiness, balancing the dish’s savory elements. The turmeric adds a subtle bitterness, the cumin provides warmth and depth, and the coriander imparts a citrusy, slightly nutty flavor. Salt and pepper enhance all these flavors, making each bite deeply satisfying. The fresh dill garnish adds a burst of fresh, slightly tangy taste that brightens the overall flavor profile.

Serving Suggestion:

Serve Beef Afghan Mastava hot, garnished with fresh dill for an added burst of color and freshness. This dish makes an excellent main course for a hearty and comforting dinner, especially when paired with warm naan bread or a fresh salad. Enjoy the rich and flavorful experience of Beef Afghan Mastava, where each bite brings a taste of comforting flavors, highlighting the perfect blend of tender beef, fluffy rice, and aromatic spices.

Afghan Mastava with Spinach

Afghan Mastava with Spinach is a comforting and hearty Afghan dish that combines tender lamb with basmati rice, vegetables, and spinach in a rich chicken broth. This flavorful stew is perfect for those who enjoy a satisfying and aromatic meal, enhanced with fresh herbs and earthy spices.

Afghan Mastava with Spinach Ingredients:

• 500g lamb, cubed
• 1 cup basmati rice
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cups spinach, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1.5 liters chicken broth
• Fresh lemon wedges for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a pot and brown the lamb. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté the onion until soft. Add the garlic, turmeric, cumin, and coriander.
3. Add the carrots, tomatoes, and spinach, cooking until softened.
4. Return the lamb to the pot, pour in the chicken broth, and bring to a boil.
5. Stir in the rice, reduce heat, and simmer until the lamb and rice are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges before serving.

Texture:

Afghan Mastava with Spinach offers a delightful combination of textures. The lamb is tender and juicy, providing a satisfying bite with each spoonful. The basmati rice is perfectly cooked, fluffy, and light, blending seamlessly with the tender lamb. The vegetables, including carrots, tomatoes, and spinach, add a mix of soft and slightly firm textures, creating a hearty and nutritious base. The broth is rich and envelops each ingredient, making the dish cohesive and comforting. The fresh lemon wedges garnish adds a touch of acidity and a slight crunch.

Fragrance:

As the Mastava simmers, it fills the kitchen with an inviting and aromatic blend of scents. The warm and earthy notes of turmeric, cumin, and coriander create a rich, spicy base. The garlic and onions add a robust, savory aroma, while the browning lamb releases a comforting, meaty fragrance. The simmering chicken broth enhances the overall fragrance with a deep, hearty aroma. The fresh spinach adds a subtle, fresh scent, while the lemon wedges provide a bright, citrusy fragrance. Together, these aromas promise a comforting and flavorful meal.

Taste:

Upon tasting Afghan Mastava with Spinach, you’ll experience a harmonious blend of rich and aromatic flavors. The lamb is succulent and flavorful, absorbing the aromatic spices during cooking. The basmati rice is perfectly seasoned, with each grain carrying a hint of the warm spices. The vegetables contribute their natural sweetness and slight earthiness, balancing the dish’s savory elements. The spinach adds a fresh, slightly bitter taste that complements the richness of the lamb and broth. The turmeric adds a subtle bitterness, the cumin provides warmth and depth, and the coriander imparts a citrusy, slightly nutty flavor. Salt and pepper enhance all these flavors, making each bite deeply satisfying. The fresh lemon wedges garnish adds a burst of fresh, tangy taste that brightens the overall flavor profile.

Serving Suggestion:

Serve Afghan Mastava with Spinach hot, garnished with fresh lemon wedges for an added burst of color and freshness. This dish makes an excellent main course for a hearty and comforting dinner, especially when paired with warm naan bread or a fresh salad. Enjoy the rich and flavorful experience of Afghan Mastava with Spinach, where each bite brings a taste of comforting flavors, highlighting the perfect blend of tender lamb, fluffy rice, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices.

Spicy Afghan Mastava

Spicy Afghan Mastava is a comforting and hearty Afghan dish that combines tender chicken with basmati rice, vegetables, and warm spices in a rich chicken broth. This flavorful stew is perfect for those who enjoy a spicy and aromatic meal, enhanced with fresh herbs and fiery chilies.

Spicy Afghan Mastava Ingredients:

• 500g chicken, cubed
• 1 cup basmati rice
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 green chilies, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp coriander
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1.5 liters chicken broth
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a pot and brown the chicken. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté the onion until soft. Add the garlic, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and red chili powder.
3. Add the carrots, tomatoes, bell pepper, and green chilies, cooking until softened.
4. Return the chicken to the pot, pour in the chicken broth, and bring to a boil.
5. Stir in the rice, reduce heat, and simmer until the chicken and rice are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Texture:

Spicy Afghan Mastava offers a delightful combination of textures. The chicken is tender and juicy, providing a satisfying bite with each spoonful. The basmati rice is perfectly cooked, fluffy, and light, blending seamlessly with the tender chicken. The vegetables, including carrots, tomatoes, bell pepper, and green chilies, add a mix of soft and slightly firm textures, creating a hearty base. The broth is rich and envelops each ingredient, making the dish cohesive and comforting. The fresh cilantro garnish adds a touch of freshness and a slight crunch.

Fragrance:

As the Mastava simmers, it fills the kitchen with an inviting and aromatic blend of scents. The warm and earthy notes of turmeric, cumin, and coriander create a rich, spicy base. The garlic and onions add a robust, savory aroma, while the browning chicken releases a comforting, meaty fragrance. The simmering chicken broth enhances the overall fragrance with a deep, hearty aroma. The green chilies add a fresh, spicy scent, while the fresh cilantro provides a bright, herbal fragrance. Together, these aromas promise a comforting and flavorful meal.

Taste:

Upon tasting Spicy Afghan Mastava, you’ll experience a harmonious blend of rich and spicy flavors. The chicken is succulent and flavorful, absorbing the aromatic spices during cooking. The basmati rice is perfectly seasoned, with each grain carrying a hint of the warm spices. The vegetables contribute their natural sweetness and slight earthiness, balancing the dish’s savory elements. The green chilies and red chili powder add a fiery kick, making the dish spicy and invigorating. The turmeric adds a subtle bitterness, the cumin provides warmth and depth, and the coriander imparts a citrusy, slightly nutty flavor. Salt and pepper enhance all these flavors, making each bite deeply satisfying. The fresh cilantro garnish adds a burst of fresh, slightly tangy taste that brightens the overall flavor profile.

Serving Suggestion:

Serve Spicy Afghan Mastava hot, garnished with fresh cilantro for an added burst of color and freshness. This dish makes an excellent main course for a hearty and comforting dinner, especially when paired with warm naan bread or a fresh salad. Enjoy the rich and flavorful experience of Spicy Afghan Mastava, where each bite brings a taste of comforting flavors, highlighting the perfect blend of tender chicken, fluffy rice, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices.

Afghan Mastava with Eggplant

Afghan Mastava with Eggplant is a comforting and hearty Afghan dish that combines tender beef with basmati rice, vegetables, and eggplant in a rich beef broth. This flavorful stew is perfect for those who enjoy a satisfying and aromatic meal, enhanced with fresh herbs and earthy spices.

Afghan Mastava with Eggplant Ingredients:

• 500g beef, cubed
• 1 cup basmati rice
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 eggplant, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1.5 liters beef broth
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a pot and brown the beef. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté the onion until soft. Add the garlic, turmeric, cumin, and coriander.
3. Add the carrots, tomatoes, and eggplant, cooking until softened.
4. Return the beef to the pot, pour in the beef broth, and bring to a boil.
5. Stir in the rice, reduce heat, and simmer until the beef and rice are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Texture:

Afghan Mastava with Eggplant offers a delightful combination of textures. The beef is tender and juicy, providing a satisfying bite with each spoonful. The basmati rice is perfectly cooked, fluffy, and light, blending seamlessly with the tender beef. The vegetables, including carrots, tomatoes, and eggplant, add a mix of soft and slightly firm textures, creating a hearty base. The eggplant becomes creamy and tender, adding a unique texture to the stew. The broth is rich and envelops each ingredient, making the dish cohesive and comforting. The fresh basil garnish adds a touch of freshness and a slight crunch.

Fragrance:

As the Mastava simmers, it fills the kitchen with an inviting and aromatic blend of scents. The warm and earthy notes of turmeric, cumin, and coriander create a rich, spicy base. The garlic and onions add a robust, savory aroma, while the browning beef releases a comforting, meaty fragrance. The simmering beef broth enhances the overall fragrance with a deep, hearty aroma. The eggplant adds a subtle, slightly sweet scent, while the fresh basil provides a bright, herbal fragrance. Together, these aromas promise a comforting and flavorful meal.

Taste:

Upon tasting Afghan Mastava with Eggplant, you’ll experience a harmonious blend of rich and aromatic flavors. The beef is succulent and flavorful, absorbing the aromatic spices during cooking. The basmati rice is perfectly seasoned, with each grain carrying a hint of the warm spices. The vegetables contribute their natural sweetness and slight earthiness, balancing the dish’s savory elements. The eggplant adds a creamy, slightly smoky flavor that complements the richness of the beef and broth. The turmeric adds a subtle bitterness, the cumin provides warmth and depth, and the coriander imparts a citrusy, slightly nutty flavor. Salt and pepper enhance all these flavors, making each bite deeply satisfying. The fresh basil garnish adds a burst of fresh, slightly tangy taste that brightens the overall flavor profile.

Serving Suggestion:

Serve Afghan Mastava with Eggplant hot, garnished with fresh basil for an added burst of color and freshness. This dish makes an excellent main course for a hearty and comforting dinner, especially when paired with warm naan bread or a fresh salad. Enjoy the rich and flavorful experience of Afghan Mastava with Eggplant, where each bite brings a taste of comforting flavors, highlighting the perfect blend of tender beef, fluffy rice, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices.

Afghan Mastava with Lentils

Afghan Mastava with Lentils is a comforting and hearty Afghan dish that combines tender lamb with basmati rice, lentils, and vegetables in a rich chicken broth. This flavorful stew is perfect for those who enjoy a satisfying and aromatic meal, enhanced with fresh herbs and earthy spices.

Afghan Mastava with Lentils Ingredients:

• 500g lamb, cubed
• 1 cup basmati rice
• 1/2 cup lentils
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1.5 liters chicken broth
• Fresh mint for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a pot and brown the lamb. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté the onion until soft. Add the garlic, turmeric, cumin, and coriander.
3. Add the carrots, tomatoes, and bell pepper, cooking until softened.
4. Return the lamb to the pot, pour in the chicken broth, and bring to a boil.
5. Stir in the rice and lentils, reduce heat, and simmer until the lamb, rice, and lentils are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh mint before serving.

Texture:

Afghan Mastava with Lentils offers a delightful combination of textures. The lamb is tender and juicy, providing a satisfying bite with each spoonful. The basmati rice is perfectly cooked, fluffy, and light, blending seamlessly with the tender lamb. The lentils add a hearty, slightly firm texture that complements the softness of the rice and vegetables. The vegetables, including carrots, tomatoes, and bell pepper, add a mix of soft and slightly firm textures, creating a hearty base. The broth is rich and envelops each ingredient, making the dish cohesive and comforting. The fresh mint garnish adds a touch of freshness and a slight crunch.

Fragrance:

As the Mastava simmers, it fills the kitchen with an inviting and aromatic blend of scents. The warm and earthy notes of turmeric, cumin, and coriander create a rich, spicy base. The garlic and onions add a robust, savory aroma, while the browning lamb releases a comforting, meaty fragrance. The simmering chicken broth enhances the overall fragrance with a deep, hearty aroma. The lentils add a subtle, nutty scent, while the fresh mint provides a bright, herbal fragrance. Together, these aromas promise a comforting and flavorful meal.

Taste:

Upon tasting Afghan Mastava with Lentils, you’ll experience a harmonious blend of rich and aromatic flavors. The lamb is succulent and flavorful, absorbing the aromatic spices during cooking. The basmati rice is perfectly seasoned, with each grain carrying a hint of the warm spices. The lentils contribute their natural nuttiness and slight earthiness, balancing the dish’s savory elements. The vegetables add their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile. The turmeric adds a subtle bitterness, the cumin provides warmth and depth, and the coriander imparts a citrusy, slightly nutty flavor. Salt and pepper enhance all these flavors, making each bite deeply satisfying. The fresh mint garnish adds a burst of fresh, slightly tangy taste that brightens the overall flavor profile.

Serving Suggestion:

Serve Afghan Mastava with Lentils hot, garnished with fresh mint for an added burst of color and freshness. This dish makes an excellent main course for a hearty and comforting dinner, especially when paired with warm naan bread or a fresh salad. Enjoy the rich and flavorful experience of Afghan Mastava with Lentils, where each bite brings a taste of comforting flavors, highlighting the perfect blend of tender lamb, fluffy rice, hearty lentils, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices.

Afghan Mastava with Peas

Afghan Mastava with Peas is a comforting and hearty Afghan dish that combines tender chicken with basmati rice, peas, and vegetables in a rich chicken broth. This flavorful stew is perfect for those who enjoy a satisfying and aromatic meal, enhanced with fresh herbs and earthy spices.

Afghan Mastava with Peas Ingredients:

• 500g chicken, cubed
• 1 cup basmati rice
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup peas
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1.5 liters chicken broth
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a pot and brown the chicken. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté the onion until soft. Add the garlic, turmeric, cumin, and coriander.
3. Add the carrots, tomatoes, and peas, cooking until softened.
4. Return the chicken to the pot, pour in the chicken broth, and bring to a boil.
5. Stir in the rice, reduce heat, and simmer until the chicken and rice are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Texture:

Afghan Mastava with Peas offers a delightful combination of textures. The chicken is tender and juicy, providing a satisfying bite with each spoonful. The basmati rice is perfectly cooked, fluffy, and light, blending seamlessly with the tender chicken. The peas add a pop of texture and sweetness, while the vegetables, including carrots and tomatoes, add a mix of soft and slightly firm textures. The broth is rich and envelops each ingredient, making the dish cohesive and comforting. The fresh parsley garnish adds a touch of freshness and a slight crunch.

Fragrance:

As the Mastava simmers, it fills the kitchen with an inviting and aromatic blend of scents. The warm and earthy notes of turmeric, cumin, and coriander create a rich, spicy base. The garlic and onions add a robust, savory aroma, while the browning chicken releases a comforting, meaty fragrance. The simmering chicken broth enhances the overall fragrance with a deep, hearty aroma. The peas add a fresh, sweet scent, while the fresh parsley provides a bright, herbal fragrance. Together, these aromas promise a comforting and flavorful meal.

Taste:

Upon tasting Afghan Mastava with Peas, you’ll experience a harmonious blend of rich and aromatic flavors. The chicken is succulent and flavorful, absorbing the aromatic spices during cooking. The basmati rice is perfectly seasoned, with each grain carrying a hint of the warm spices. The peas contribute their natural sweetness and slight earthiness, balancing the dish’s savory elements. The vegetables add their natural sweetness and slight acidity, enhancing the overall flavor profile. The turmeric adds a subtle bitterness, the cumin provides warmth and depth, and the coriander imparts a citrusy, slightly nutty flavor. Salt and pepper enhance all these flavors, making each bite deeply satisfying. The fresh parsley garnish adds a burst of fresh, slightly tangy taste that brightens the overall flavor profile.

Serving Suggestion:

Serve Afghan Mastava with Peas hot, garnished with fresh parsley for an added burst of color and freshness. This dish makes an excellent main course for a hearty and comforting dinner, especially when paired with warm naan bread or a fresh salad. Enjoy the rich and flavorful experience of Afghan Mastava with Peas, where each bite brings a taste of comforting flavors, highlighting the perfect blend of tender chicken, fluffy rice, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices.

Afghan Mastava with Chickpeas

Afghan Mastava with Chickpeas is a comforting and hearty Afghan dish that combines tender lamb with basmati rice, chickpeas, and vegetables in a rich chicken broth. This flavorful stew is perfect for those who enjoy a satisfying and aromatic meal, enhanced with fresh herbs and earthy spices.

Afghan Mastava with Chickpeas Ingredients:

• 500g lamb, cubed
• 1 cup basmati rice
• 1 cup chickpeas, cooked
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1.5 liters chicken broth
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a pot and brown the lamb. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté the onion until soft. Add the garlic, turmeric, cumin, and coriander.
3. Add the carrots, tomatoes, and bell pepper, cooking until softened.
4. Return the lamb to the pot, pour in the chicken broth, and bring to a boil.
5. Stir in the rice and chickpeas, reduce heat, and simmer until the lamb and rice are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Texture:

Afghan Mastava with Chickpeas offers a delightful combination of textures. The lamb is tender and juicy, providing a satisfying bite with each spoonful. The basmati rice is perfectly cooked, fluffy, and light, blending seamlessly with the tender lamb. The chickpeas add a hearty and slightly firm texture that complements the softness of the rice and vegetables. The vegetables, including carrots, tomatoes, and bell pepper, add a mix of soft and slightly firm textures, creating a hearty base. The broth is rich and envelops each ingredient, making the dish cohesive and comforting. The fresh cilantro garnish adds a touch of freshness and a slight crunch.

Fragrance:

As the Mastava simmers, it fills the kitchen with an inviting and aromatic blend of scents. The warm and earthy notes of turmeric, cumin, and coriander create a rich, spicy base. The garlic and onions add a robust, savory aroma, while the browning lamb releases a comforting, meaty fragrance. The simmering chicken broth enhances the overall fragrance with a deep, hearty aroma. The chickpeas add a subtle, nutty scent, while the fresh cilantro provides a bright, herbal fragrance. Together, these aromas promise a comforting and flavorful meal.

Taste:

Upon tasting Afghan Mastava with Chickpeas, you’ll experience a harmonious blend of rich and aromatic flavors. The lamb is succulent and flavorful, absorbing the aromatic spices during cooking. The basmati rice is perfectly seasoned, with each grain carrying a hint of the warm spices. The chickpeas contribute their natural nuttiness and slight earthiness, balancing the dish’s savory elements. The vegetables add their natural sweetness and slight acidity, enhancing the overall flavor profile. The turmeric adds a subtle bitterness, the cumin provides warmth and depth, and the coriander imparts a citrusy, slightly nutty flavor. Salt and pepper enhance all these flavors, making each bite deeply satisfying. The fresh cilantro garnish adds a burst of fresh, slightly tangy taste that brightens the overall flavor profile.

Serving Suggestion:

Serve Afghan Mastava with Chickpeas hot, garnished with fresh cilantro for an added burst of color and freshness. This dish makes an excellent main course for a hearty and comforting dinner, especially when paired with warm naan bread or a fresh salad. Enjoy the rich and flavorful experience of Afghan Mastava with Chickpeas, where each bite brings a taste of comforting flavors, highlighting the perfect blend of tender lamb, fluffy rice, hearty chickpeas, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices.

These 10 best Mastava recipes celebrate the rich and diverse culinary heritage of Afghanistan. Whether you prefer the hearty warmth of Lamb and Rice Mastava or the vibrant flavors of Chicken and Vegetable Mastava, there is a recipe here for every palate. Try these Afghan Mastava recipes and bring the taste of Afghanistan into your kitchen. Enjoy!