Mashawa Herati (Herat Hearty Five-Pulse, Herb & Dill Soup) – Authentic Afghanistan Recipe

Ingredients for Mashawa Herati (Herat Hearty Five-Pulse, Herb & Dill Soup) (4 Servings)

• 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) chickpeas, prepped into bite-sized pieces
• 1.5 cups mung beans, washed and trimmed
• 1 cup red lentils
• 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with fresh dill
• 1.5 tbsp traditional Afghanistan seasoning (coriander, turmeric, ginger, garlic)
• 2.5 cups rich culinary stock or aromatic cooking liquid, plus 2 tbsp cooking oil

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Warm cooking oil in a heavy pot over medium heat; gently sweat the minced onion, garlic, and fresh dill for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
2. Stir in coriander, turmeric, ginger, garlic and toast for 45 seconds to release the essential oils of Afghanistan's kitchen.
3. Add chickpeas and mung beans, tossing to coat in the aromatic base.
4. Pour in the stock, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 18–20 minutes until tender and deeply flavorful.
5. Fold in red lentils, adjust seasoning, and ladle steaming hot into deep bowls.