Authentic Afghani Qorma Lawand Recipe: A Traditional Culinary Journey

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds of lamb, cut into pieces
  • 2 onions, sliced
  • 4 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 teaspoons of turmeric
  • 2 teaspoons of coriander
  • 2 teaspoons of cumin
  • 1 teaspoon of cardamom
  • 1 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
  • 1 cup of yogurt
  • 4 cups of water
  • 1 tablespoon of salt
  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • 1 bunch of fresh cilantro, chopped

Steps and instructions

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the lamb pieces to the pot and brown them on all sides, then remove and set aside.
  3. Add the sliced onions to the pot and sauté until they are golden brown.
  4. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot and sauté for a few more minutes.
  5. Add the turmeric, coriander, cumin, cardamom, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to the pot and stir well to combine.
  6. Add the browned lamb pieces back into the pot and stir well to coat them with the spice mixture.
  7. Add the yogurt to the pot and stir well to combine.
  8. Add the water and salt to the pot, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 1.5 hours until the lamb is tender.
  9. Stir in the chopped fresh cilantro and cook for a few more minutes.
  10. Adjust the seasoning to taste, then serve the Qorma Lawand hot.

Tools for making

  • Large pot - Needed for cooking the Qorma Lawand.
  • Cutting board - Used for chopping onions and cilantro.
  • Knife - Essential for cutting the lamb into pieces and slicing the onions.
  • Grater - Used to grate the fresh ginger.
  • Measuring spoons - Needed for accurately measuring the spices.
  • Wooden spoon - Used for stirring the ingredients in the pot.
  • Serving dish - For presenting the finished Qorma Lawand.

Recipe variations

  • Replace lamb with chicken or beef for a different meat option.
  • Add vegetables such as carrots, peas, or potatoes for a more hearty qorma.
  • Include dried fruits like raisins or apricots for a touch of sweetness.
  • Add nuts such as almonds or cashews for added texture.
  • Experiment with different spices like cinnamon, cloves, or nutmeg to create unique flavor profiles.
  • For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt or coconut milk instead of regular yogurt.
  • Make it vegan by substituting the meat with tofu or tempeh and using plant-based yogurt.
  • Adjust the level of spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of cayenne pepper.
  • Garnish with fresh mint leaves or sliced green chilies for an extra kick.
  • Serve the qorma with naan bread or rice pilaf for a complete meal.

Recipe overview

Qorma Lawand is a hearty and flavorful Afghani dish that features tender lamb cooked in a spicy and creamy yogurt sauce, then garnished with fresh cilantro. This recipe will guide you through the process of creating this mouthwatering dish from scratch. With a mix of aromatic spices like turmeric, coriander, cumin, and cardamom, this dish is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Expect to spend a bit of time in the kitchen as the lamb needs to simmer for about 1.5 hours to achieve the desired tenderness, but rest assured, your efforts will be well worth it when you taste the end result. Serve your Qorma Lawand hot for a satisfying and comforting meal.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of meat instead of lamb? Yes, you can try using chicken or beef as a substitute for lamb in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  2. Can I use ground spices instead of whole spices? Yes, you can use ground spices instead of whole spices. Use about half the amount of ground spices compared to whole spices.
  3. Can I make this recipe in advance? Yes, Qorma Lawand can be made in advance. In fact, the flavors tend to develop and improve over time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
  4. Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the leftovers of Qorma Lawand. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
  5. What can I serve Qorma Lawand with? Qorma Lawand is traditionally served with rice or naan bread. You can also serve it with roti or other types of bread.
  6. Can I adjust the level of spiciness? Yes, you can adjust the level of spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of cayenne pepper used. You can also omit it altogether if you prefer a mild flavor.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Qorma Lawand is a savory dish that hails from the heart of Afghanistan. It symbolizes the rich and diverse flavors of Central Asian cuisine, with its delicate blend of spices and tender pieces of lamb. The word 'Qorma' is derived from the Turkish term 'kavurma' which means 'cooked meat', while 'Lawand' refers to the generous use of garlic in the dish. This dish is traditionally savored during special occasions and has a special place in Afghan gatherings and festivities. Its unique blend of spices and aromatic herbs represents the fusion of cultures along the Silk Road, testifying to the vibrant history and resilient spirit of the Afghan people. Qorma Lawand is not just a dish, it's a celebration of Afghan heritage and culinary artistry.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.

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