Ashak | Afghani Dumplings

ground beef

🥗Healthier: ground turkey

💰Cheaper: lentils

Lentils provide a plant-based option that's budget-friendly.

yogurt

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: sour cream

Greek yogurt offers a thicker consistency with fewer calories.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil is healthier and adds a distinct flavor.

flour

🥗Healthier: whole wheat flour

💰Cheaper: all-purpose flour

Whole wheat flour increases fiber content.

Chop 14 bunches of leeks and add 4 teaspoons of salt.

Chop 2 chili peppers and add them to the leeks with salt.

Add 1.5 teaspoons of coriander and some red chili powder to the leeks and mix well.

Use wonton wrappers instead of making dough from scratch.

Place the wonton wrappers flour side up and fill with the leek mixture.

Seal the dumplings and design as desired.

Coat the dumpling steamer with oil to prevent sticking.

Stack and layer the dumplings in the steamer.

Boil water and add the dumplings once boiling.

Cook the dumplings for 6 to 8 minutes until they float to the top.

In a hot pan, add drained onions and oil.

Add 8 grated cloves of garlic and sauté for 1 minute.

Add ground beef and 2 teaspoons of salt, cooking until browned.

Stir in 1 teaspoon of turmeric, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, and grated tomato.

Add 2 tablespoons of tomato sauce to the meat mixture.

Prepare Chaka by draining yogurt and mixing in grated garlic after thickening.

Assemble the dish by placing the meat sauce on top of the Chaka and then adding the dumplings.

Drizzle red pepper on top before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: