**Embark on a Culinary Journey to Afghanistan: Discover the Enchanting Flavors of Haft Mewa, Afghan New Year's Dried Fruit Medley and Other Delectable Recipes**
As the New Year approaches, embark on a culinary adventure to Afghanistan and discover the enchanting flavors of Haft Mewa, a traditional dried fruit medley that holds a special place in Afghan culture. This delectable treat, made with a harmonious blend of seven dried fruits and nuts, is a symbol of abundance, prosperity, and good fortune.
In this article, we present not only the recipe for Haft Mewa but also a collection of other enticing Afghan dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. From the savory delights of Kabuli Palaw, a flavorful rice dish adorned with tender lamb and aromatic spices, to the sweet indulgence of Afghan Bolani, a crispy flatbread filled with pumpkin, potatoes, or leeks, our recipes offer a diverse culinary exploration of Afghanistan's rich gastronomic heritage.
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mantu, succulent dumplings filled with seasoned ground beef and topped with a tangy yogurt sauce, and delve into the aromatic world of Ashak, delicate dumplings served in a savory broth, adorned with a minty yogurt sauce and a sprinkle of sautéed garlic.
Indulge in the comforting warmth of Shorba-e-Quroot, a hearty Afghan soup made with yogurt, fresh herbs, and tender lamb, and relish the exquisite flavors of Kaddo Bouranee, a delightful pumpkin dish prepared with caramelized onions and aromatic spices.
Prepare to be captivated by the culinary artistry of Afghanistan as you embark on this journey through its traditional recipes. Let your taste buds dance with delight as you savor the unique blend of flavors and aromas that define Afghan cuisine.
HAFT MEWA (SEVEN FRUITS)
Haft mewa, which means seven fruits in Persian, is a symbolic compote of dried fruits and nuts traditionally prepared for Afghan Nowruz, the celebration of the new year and vernal equinox. Durkhania Ayubi shared this version in her cookbook, "Parwana: Recipes and Stories From an Afghan Kitchen." She received the recipe from her mother, Farida Ayubi, who grew up making it in Afghanistan and continued the tradition with her family in their adopted home of Adelaide, Australia. Different types of nuts and fruits, which sometimes number more than seven despite the dish's name, are soaked in water for two days to allow the fruits to plump up and release their natural juices. The nuts are peeled so they don't make the syrup bitter and murky.
Provided by Naz Deravian
Categories snack, dessert
Time P2DT9h30m
Yield 6 servings
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- Bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Place each variety of nut in a separate medium heatproof bowl and cover each variety with some of the just-boiled water. Soak the almonds and pistachios for about 1 hour, and soak the walnuts overnight (if using) to help the skins peel off. Almond and pistachio skins slip off fairly easily; walnuts take more effort. Once the skins are softened, drain the nuts and use your fingers to rub off the skins. Rinse the peeled nuts and place them all in one bowl.
- In a medium pot with a lid, bring 5 cups of water to a boil. Remove from the heat and carefully add the nuts and all of the dried fruits to the pot. Cover and set aside to cool at room temperature. Once cool, cover and refrigerate for 48 hours to allow the flavors to fully develop.
- Serve chilled, ladling some syrupy soaking liquid into each bowl. Be mindful that the senjed and whole dried apricots have seeds. Haft mewa will keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
AFGHAN NEW YEAR DRIED FRUIT MEDLEY, HAFT MEWA
"Haft Mewa is a compote made from seven different dried fruits and nuts served in their own juices. Traditionally the seven ingredients are as follows: red raisins, black raisins, yellow raisins, senjid (the dried fruit of the oleaster tree), pistachio, dried apricot, and dried apple. This is not a traditional recipe but it is very delicious and don't fret about the ingredients. This is a very flexible recipe, just use dried fruit and nuts that you have in your pantry!" Recipe found on http://www.afghancooking.net
Provided by UmmBinat
Categories Breakfast
Time 49m
Yield 6 , 6 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- In addition you must have a large (at least 5 pints) lidded container with a wide mouth.
- Begin by blanching the walnuts and pistachios. Bring 3 cups of water to a boil, remove from the heat, add the walnuts and pistachios, cover and let it sit for 20 minutes. In the meantime in a large bowl add both kinds of raisins, cherries and apricots. Rinse three times in cold water to remove any residue.
- When the nuts are ready, pour the hot water out and add cold water. That way you won't burn your hands. Peel the skin off the nuts using the best method you can muster up. I must admit, the pistachios were a dream but the walnuts take patience! I found if you have a whole walnut, break it in half and then start peeling. It really makes it easier. Perhaps recruit family members to help. Make sure all the skin is removed from the pistachios and the walnuts, no exception!
- Add the dried fruit and the nuts to the container along with the rosewater and 5 cups of cold water. Stir well. The water should be at lead 1 inch above the ingredients. Refrigerate for 2-4 days. The longer you leave it the sweeter it gets. It will keep in the fridge for up to 7 days.
- Serve in a bowl with its juices. I also think it would taste wonderful on vanilla ice cream or plain yogurt.
- Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts : Calories 318.9, Fat 20.4, SaturatedFat 1.9, Sodium 11.2, Carbohydrate 32.4, Fiber 5.6, Sugar 22, Protein 8.2
Tips:
- Choose high-quality dried fruits. This will ensure that your haft mewa is flavorful and delicious. Look for fruits that are plump, brightly colored, and free of blemishes.
- Toast the nuts and seeds before adding them to the mixture. This will enhance their flavor and make them more crunchy.
- Use a variety of nuts and seeds. This will give your haft mewa a more complex flavor and texture. Some good options include almonds, pistachios, walnuts, pecans, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds.
- Add some spices to the mixture. This will give it a warm and inviting flavor. Some good options include cardamom, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Store the haft mewa in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It will keep for up to 2 weeks.
Conclusion:
Haft mewa is a delicious and festive treat that is perfect for any occasion. It is easy to make and can be customized to your liking. So next time you are looking for a special snack or dessert, give haft mewa a try. You won't be disappointed!
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