Ingredient appreciation — what makes Firni special

What sets Firni apart is the handling of dried sour grapes kishmish. 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 teahouse on the Silk Road route atmosphere was right for this kind of food. I had qymaq cream tea as recommended and it matched well. If you want to understand what makes this cuisine distinctive, Firni is the place to start.