Afghan Aushak Recipe

Cooking Directions

• STEP 1.To make the dumpling dough, combine flour, water, and salt in a bowl. Knead until smooth and elastic.
• STEP 2.Roll out the dough into a thin sheet and cut into small circles.
• STEP 3.In a separate bowl, mix together finely chopped leeks, ground beef, coriander, cumin, salt, and pepper.
• STEP 4.Place a small amount of the filling onto each dough circle and fold in half, sealing the edges.
• STEP 5.Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the dumplings until they float to the surface.
• STEP 6.In a separate pan, heat olive oil and sauté finely chopped onions until golden brown.
• STEP 7.Add tomato paste, water, salt, and pepper to the pan and simmer for a few minutes.
• STEP 8.Serve the cooked dumplings topped with the tomato sauce and a spoonful of yogurt.
• STEP 9.Garnish with chopped cilantro or mint leaves, if desired.

Cooking Tips

• Make sure to seal the dumplings tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking.
• You can make the dumplings in advance and freeze them for later use.
• For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with mashed potatoes or lentils.

Storage and Serving

• Leftover dumplings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat the dumplings in a steamer or microwave before serving.
• Aushak is traditionally served as an appetizer or main course with naan bread or rice.