The Ashak I grew up eating — memory as a review

I grew up eating Ashak and have strong opinions shaped by memory. The version here triggered that recognition in the first bite — the subtly sweet from dried fruit was right, saffron was handled the way it should be.

Afghan hospitality tradition demands feeding guests regardless of the host's circumstances. Growing up it was always an Afghan restaurant abroad, which shaped my reference point entirely. qymaq cream tea alongside it is the only way it makes sense to me. It's hard to be objective about food you have emotional history with, but objectively: this is very good.