Khwaja Abd Allah Ansari Shrine and Food History, Herat, Afghanistan

The Khwaja Abd Allah Ansari Shrine, located in Herat, Afghanistan, is a complex dedicated to the celebrated Sufi saint Khwaja Abdullah Ansari who was known for his poetry and theological works. While the shrine itself is a place of spiritual significance rather than culinary tradition, it's situated in a region rich in gastronomic heritage. Herat, a city with ancient Persian influences, historically acted as a crossroads for trade routes, resulting in a diverse culinary culture that blends Persian, Central Asian, and South Asian flavors. The local cuisine has a strong emphasis on wheat, dairy, and a variety of locally sourced fruits and vegetables, alongside a rich array of spices.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes Near Khwaja Abd Allah Ansari Shrine

1. Ashak (vegetarian) - Afghan dumplings filled with a mixture of leeks and scallions, topped with a garlic-mint yogurt and tomato sauce.
2. Bolani (vegetarian) - A type of flatbread stuffed with a variety of fillings such as potatoes, lentils or spinach, and often served with plain yogurt.
3. Kabuli Pulao (non-veg) - A savory rice dish mixed with raisins, carrots, and lamb, representing the country's national dish. As lamb is a common meat used, it's important for those avoiding cow meat.
4. Mantu (non-veg) - Steamed dumplings filled typically with minced lamb or chicken, topped with yogurt and a split pea sauce.
5. Borani Banjan (vegetarian) - Fried eggplants covered in a rich tomato sauce and drizzled with garlic yogurt.
6. Qormeh Sabzi (non-veg) - A fragrant herb stew containing red kidney beans and chunks of lamb or chicken.
7. Aush (can be vegetarian) - A hearty noodle soup cooked with various vegetables, herbs, and typically some form of ground meat, although vegetarian versions are available.
8. Shorwa (non-veg) - A traditional Afghan soup made with lamb or chicken, potatoes and chickpeas, seasoned with various spices.
9. Naan-e-Afghan (vegetarian) - The staple bread of Afghanistan, typically baked in a tandoor and served with most meals.
10. Sheer Yakh (vegetarian) - Afghan style frozen dairy dessert similar to ice cream but denser, often flavored with cardamom and sometimes drizzled with mango or strawberry syrups.

Top Famous Restaurants Near Khwaja Abd Allah Ansari Shrine

• Restaurant Name: Herat Restaurant
  Address: Ghala-e-Fathullah, Herat, Afghanistan
  Famous Food: Kabuli Pulao (non-veg)
• Restaurant Name: Zinda Jan Restaurant
  Address: Wadi-e-Zinda Jan, Herat, Afghanistan
  Famous Food: Bolani (vegetarian)
• Restaurant Name: Silk Road Restaurant
  Address: Takht-e-Safar, Herat, Afghanistan
  Famous Food: Ashak (vegetarian)

Note: As the situation in Afghanistan can be volatile, and given the regional context, travelers are advised to check the current situation and safety advisories before planning a visit