Ingredient appreciation — what makes Ashak special

What sets Ashak apart is the handling of saffron. In lesser versions this is treated as a background note. Here it's central and the fragrant and warming result shows it. I've started buying it to cook with at home after this experience.

Afghan hospitality tradition demands feeding guests regardless of the host's circumstances. The a traditional Afghan home dinner atmosphere was right for this kind of food. I had fresh pomegranate juice as recommended and it matched well. If you want to understand what makes this cuisine distinctive, Ashak is the place to start.