Afghan – Kaddo Bourani

Afghan Kaddo Bourani (also spelled Kadu Borani) is a delightful Afghan dish made with sweet, spiced pumpkin (or squash) and topped with a creamy yogurt garlic sauce. It is a popular appetizer or side dish in Afghan cuisine and is loved for its unique combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors.

Key Components:

Pumpkin (Kaddo):
- Typically, a sweet pumpkin or butternut squash is used, peeled and cut into large chunks.
- The pumpkin is caramelized with sugar and lightly spiced, creating a sweet and tender base.
Yogurt Sauce:
- Plain yogurt is mixed with garlic, creating a tangy and aromatic sauce that balances the sweetness of the pumpkin.
Tomato Sauce (Optional):
- Sometimes a savory tomato-based sauce is added, seasoned with onions, garlic, and spices like turmeric and coriander. This adds depth to the dish and contrasts with the pumpkin’s sweetness.
Spices:
- The pumpkin is flavored with a mix of spices, often including cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom, which enhance its natural sweetness.

Preparation:

Cooking the Pumpkin:
- The pumpkin pieces are sautéed in oil or baked until tender. Sugar and spices are added to caramelize the pumpkin, giving it a rich and sweet flavor.
Making the Yogurt Sauce:
- Garlic is minced and mixed into yogurt, with a pinch of salt for seasoning.
Optional Tomato Sauce:
- If using, a simple tomato sauce is prepared by sautéing onions, adding tomatoes, garlic, and spices, and simmering until thickened.
Assembling the Dish:
- The cooked pumpkin is layered on a plate, drizzled with yogurt sauce, and, if desired, topped with the tomato sauce.

Flavor Profile:

Kaddo Bourani is a delightful interplay of flavors:

The caramelized pumpkin offers a sweet, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
The garlic yogurt sauce adds a tangy, creamy contrast.
If included, the savory tomato sauce brings additional complexity and balance.

Serving:

Kaddo Bourani is often served as a starter or side dish at Afghan meals. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, alongside flatbread or as part of a larger spread.