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In the heart of Afghanistan, amidst the rugged mountains and ancient cities, lies a culinary treasure that has been a part of its culture for centuries: Korma Challow. This dish, with its rich flavors and aromatic spices, is a testament to the country’s vibrant history and its people’s enduring spirit.
Making Korma Challow takes time and care, showing how patient and tough the people of Afghanistan are. The meat is cooked slowly until it’s light brown, and then it’s cooked more with spices. This mix of spices shows how different countries and traders have influenced Afghan cooking. Every part of Korma Challow, like the sweet onions and spicy black pepper, tells a story about people moving around and different cultures coming together.
In Afghan culture, meals are more than just sustenance; they are a reason to gather, to celebrate, and to share. Korma Challow is often served at large family gatherings, special occasions, and communal events, highlighting its role in bringing people together. Serving this dish is a gesture of hospitality, a deeply ingrained value in Afghan society.

The spices in Korma Challow – such as black pepper and salt – are not only culinary ingredients but also symbolize the warmth and generosity of Afghan hospitality.
Korma Challow, often eaten with rice or naan, shows the richness of Afghanistan’s farming. Rice, a common food in Afghan meals, stands for the country’s fruitful valleys and rivers. Naan, cooked in clay ovens, represents the old cooking ways that Afghans have kept alive over many generations.
In every household, the recipe for Korma Challow varies slightly, each family adding their own touch, making it a personal expression of their history and heritage. This dish is not just a recipe; it’s a legacy, handed down through generations, each one adding their chapter to its ongoing story.
Tune in to a quick video on making this tasty recipe
Equipment needed to make korma challow

Click here to get: Pot with strainer

Click here to get: Pan/pot
How to make korma challow
4
servings30
minutes40
minutesIngredients
Veal: 1 kg
Cooking oil: ¼ cup
Onions (chopped): 4
Water: 2 cups
Bell pepper: 1 cup
Salt: 1 tbsp
Black pepper: 1 tsp
Tomato sauce: 1 cup
Directions
- Heat Oil: Place a pan on medium heat and add the cooking oil.
- Brown Onions: Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onions. Sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Cook Veal: Add the veal to the pan with the onions. Sauté for a few minutes until the meat starts to brown slightly.
- Add Water: Pour in 2 cups of water and let it cook for about ten minutes.
- Season: Add the bell pepper, salt, and black pepper to the pan. Continue cooking for about thirty minutes, or until the meat is thoroughly cooked. You can check for doneness by performing a touch test on the meat.
- Final Touch: Stir in the tomato sauce. Continue cooking until all the water is absorbed, and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Serve: Once ready, serve the korma with rice or bread (naan) as an accompaniment.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Equipment needed: Pot with strainer
- Equipment needed: Pan/pot
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Click Here to Learn How to Make Sheer Yakh: A Sweet Afghan Delight
