Must-Try Foods In Ancient City Of Balkh (Mazari-Sharif) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Ancient City of Balkh, Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan

The ancient city of Balkh, often referred to as the "Mother of Cities," has a rich history that intertwines with the diverse cultures that have passed through the region. The food of Balkh, and the larger Mazar-i-Sharif area, draws influence from the Silk Road, where various civilizations, including Persians, Greeks, and Turks, left their mark. Traditional Afghan cuisine is a blend of Central Asian, Eastern Asian, South Asian, and Middle Eastern flavors. The use of spices such as cardamom, cumin, and coriander, combined with the profuse use of nuts and dried fruits, creates hearty and aromatic dishes. Historically, irrigation from the Balkh River has supported agricultural prosperity, contributing a variety of fresh produce to the local diet. Although meat plays a significant role in Afghan cuisine, there are also many vegetarian dishes to be found that celebrate the region's agricultural bounty.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes in Balkh, Mazar-i-Sharif

1. Qabuli Palaw (Non-Veg) - Often considered the national dish of Afghanistan, this flavorful rice dish is made with steamed rice mixed with raisins, carrots, and lamb.
2. Ashak (Veg) - Dumplings filled with a leek filling, served under a yogurt sauce, and topped with tomato and dried mint.
3. Borani Banjan (Veg) - Eggplant served with yogurt and tomatoes, often infused with a garlic flavor.
4. Chapli Kebab (Non-Veg) - A spiced minced meat patty, which combines ground chicken with various spices and is served with naan or flatbread.
5. Mantu (Non-Veg) - These steamed dumplings are filled with onions and minced meat, usually lamb or chicken, and topped with a yogurt sauce.
6. Bolani (Veg) - A vegetarian flatbread stuffed with various fillings like potatoes, lentils, or leeks, and often served with plain yogurt.
7. Shorwa (Non-Veg) - A hearty and thick soup with chunks of meat, usually chicken, and a variety of vegetables, seasoned with local herbs and spices.
8. Kichiri (Veg) - A simple dish of rice and mung beans, seasoned with local spices and sometimes served with a side of yogurt.
9. Gulpi (Veg) - Cauliflower stewed with tomatoes, ginger, and other spices, and sometimes topped with yogurt.
10. Fateer (Veg) - A type of layered bread, often sweetened with sugar or honey, and can be served as a dessert or a snack.

Top Famous Restaurants in Balkh, Mazar-i-Sharif

1. Barbar Restaurant
   Address: Barbar Street, Mazar-i-Sharif
   Famous Food: Mantu (Non-Veg)
2. Ay Khanum Restaurant
   Address: Nawabad, Mazar-i-Sharif
   Famous Food: Qabuli Palaw (Non-Veg)
3. Kebab House
   Address: Dehdadi Road, Mazar-i-Sharif
   Famous Food: Chapli Kebab (Non-Veg)
4. Green Leaf Restaurant
   Address: Mazari Sharif Central Park, Mazar-i-Sharif
   Famous Food: Bolani (Veg)
5. Shandiz Mazar Restaurant
   Address: Shadian Town, Mazar-i-Sharif
   Famous Food: Shorwa (Non-Veg)