Afghan Flaky Elephant's Ear Pastry, or "Kabuli Khameerbob," is a unique and cherished delicacy in Afghan cuisine, known for its flaky texture and sweet, nutty filling. This pastry, made from a simple dough of flour, water, and salt, is rolled and folded multiple times to create layers. Its sweet filling of sugar, nuts, and spices like cardamom and cinnamon adds depth of flavor, making it a favorite for special occasions. Symbolizing Afghan hospitality and tradition, this pastry is not only a delightful dessert but also brings people together, highlighting the cultural significance of sharing food. The rich ingredients provide a mix of nutrients, but the sweetness and richness of the filling also mean it should be consumed in moderation.

ingredients:

1- 1 cup all-purpose flour

2- 1/4 cup cornstarch

3- 1/4 tsp baking powder

4- 1/4 tsp salt

5- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

6- 1/4 cup powdered sugar

7- 1 egg yolk

8- 1/4 cup milk

9- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

10- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, for dusting

Healthy Alternatives

- For those looking to make the pastry a bit healthier, there are several alternatives that can be incorporated:

- Butter Substitution: You can replace the unsalted butter with healthier oils, such as coconut oil or olive oil. These oils offer unsaturated fats, which are better for heart health compared to the saturated fats in butter.

- Reducing Sugar: The sugar content in the pastry can be reduced, or natural sweeteners like stevia or honey can be used as a healthier alternative. This can help lower the glycemic index of the pastry, making it a better choice for those managing their blood sugar levels.

- Whole Wheat Flour: Instead of all-purpose flour, you can use whole wheat flour, which provides additional fiber and nutrients like B vitamins and iron, promoting better digestion and helping to stabilize blood sugar levels.

Method:

1- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

2- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.

3- Add the egg yolk, milk, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, and beat until well combined.

4- Slowly add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until the dough comes together.

5- Divide the dough into four equal portions. Roll out one portion of the dough on a lightly floured surface until it is very thin, almost translucent.

6- Cut the dough into an elephant ear shape using a sharp knife or cookie cutter.

7- Repeat with the remaining portions of dough.

8- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place one or two Gosh-e-Fil pastries in the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, until golden brown.

9- Remove the pastries from the skillet and transfer them to a wire rack to cool.

10- Dust the pastries with powdered sugar before serving.

How to Serve Afghan Flaky Elephant's Ear Pastry

- This pastry is a versatile treat that can be served in many ways depending on the occasion. It is commonly enjoyed during special occasions such as weddings, religious holidays, and festive gatherings in Afghanistan. For a delightful experience, serve it with hot beverages like tea, coffee, or traditional Afghan chai (green tea with spices).

- Tea Time: The flaky texture pairs wonderfully with the warmth of tea, making it a perfect addition to a tea party or a cozy afternoon snack.

- Cultural Events: Due to its cultural significance, "Gosh-e-Fil" is often offered to guests as a sign of hospitality, bringing people together and creating lasting memories.

Variations in Fillings

- While the traditional filling consists of sugar, nuts, and spices like cinnamon and cardamom, there is a great deal of flexibility when it comes to experimenting with the filling. Here are some variations you can try:

- Dried Fruits: Adding dried fruits like raisins, apricots, or dates can introduce a natural sweetness while also boosting fiber content.

- Chocolate: For those with a sweet tooth, a chocolate filling, whether milk or dark, can be a delicious twist, providing antioxidants along with its rich flavor.

- Savory Options: If you're looking for a savory alternative, try filling the pastry with cheese or spiced meat, creating a completely different taste experience.

Nutritional Value and Health Benefits

- Afghan Flaky Elephant's Ear Pastry, or "Kabuli Khameerbob," offers a delightful mix of flavors with ingredients like butter, sugar, and nuts. While delicious, the pastry is quite rich in calories and fats, making it best enjoyed in moderation. The combination of butter and sugar results in a pastry with a high energy density, providing significant calories. The butter adds richness and a flaky texture, while the nuts (often almonds or pistachios) provide protein, healthy fats, and a range of vitamins and minerals like vitamin E and magnesium.

- However, the pastry can be quite high in saturated fats and sugars, which can contribute to weight gain if consumed in large quantities. It's important to balance such treats with a diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables to maintain overall health. The cinnamon and cardamom, which are commonly used in the filling, offer antioxidant properties and help regulate blood sugar, adding a healthful aspect to the pastry.

Notes:

1- Be sure to roll the dough out very thin for the best results.

2- You can use a cookie cutter or sharp knife to shape the Gosh-e-Fil pastries into elephant ears.

3- Gosh-e-Fil pastries are best served fresh and warm, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can "Gosh-e-Fil" be stored?

- Yes, these pastries can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can freeze them and reheat in the oven for a crispy texture.

What are some alternative fillings for "Gosh-e-Fil"?

- You can try different fillings such as dried fruits (raisins, apricots, or dates), chopped nuts (walnuts or cashews), or even chocolate. These variations will offer different textures and flavor profiles.

Can the ingredients be modified to make the pastry healthier?

- Yes, you can replace butter with healthier oils like coconut oil, reduce the amount of sugar used, or opt for whole wheat flour to make the pastry more nutritious and suitable for a health-conscious diet.

What occasions are best for serving "Gosh-e-Fil"?

- "Gosh-e-Fil" is traditionally served during special occasions like weddings, tea parties, or religious holidays. It symbolizes hospitality and is often enjoyed by guests in Afghan culture.

Are there regional differences in how "Gosh-e-Fil" is prepared?

- Yes, the preparation of "Gosh-e-Fil" can vary slightly across regions in Afghanistan, with different regions possibly using different fillings or spices. Some variations might include savory versions with cheese or meat fillings.

Nutrition Facts:

Serving size: 1 pastry

- Calories: 140

- Total Fat: 9g

- Saturated Fat: 5g

- Cholesterol: 35mg

- Sodium: 60mg

- Total Carbohydrates: 13g

- Dietary Fiber: 0g

- Total Sugars: 5g

- Protein: 2g

Here are the approximate nutrition facts for the ingredients listed in the Gosh-e-Fil recipe:

1 cup all-purpose flour:

- Calories: 455

- Carbohydrates: 95g

- Protein: 12g

- Fat: 1g

- Fiber: 3g

- Sugar: 0g

- Sodium: 3mg

benfits: Provides structure and texture to the pastry.

1/4 cup cornstarch:

- Calories: 110

- Carbohydrates: 27g

- Protein: 0g

- Fat: 0g

- Fiber: 0g

- Sugar: 0g

- Sodium: 10mg

benfits: Helps to tenderize the pastry and create a more delicate texture.

1/4 tsp baking powder:

- Calories: 0

- Carbohydrates: 0g

- Protein: 0g

- Fat: 0g

- Fiber: 0g

- Sugar: 0g

- Sodium: 295mg

benfits: Acts as a leavening agent, helping the pastry to rise and become light and fluffy.

1/4 tsp salt:

- Calories: 0

- Carbohydrates: 0g

- Protein: 0g

- Fat: 0g

- Fiber: 0g

- Sugar: 0g

- Sodium: 581mg

benfits: Enhances the flavor of the pastry and balances the sweetness.

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened:

- Calories: 814

- Carbohydrates: 0g

- Protein: 1g

- Fat: 92g

- Fiber: 0g

- Sugar: 0g

- Sodium: 2mg

benfits: Adds richness and flavor to the pastry, as well as helping to create a flaky texture.

1/4 cup powdered sugar:

- Calories: 97

- Carbohydrates: 24g

- Protein: 0g

- Fat: 0g

- Fiber: 0g

- Sugar: 24g

- Sodium: 0mg

benfits: Sweetens the pastry and contributes to its tender texture.

1 egg yolk:

- Calories: 55

- Carbohydrates: 1g

- Protein: 3g

- Fat: 5g

- Fiber: 0g

- Sugar: 0g

- Sodium: 8mg

benfits: Adds richness and helps to bind the ingredients together.

1/4 cup milk:

- Calories: 31

- Carbohydrates: 2g

- Protein: 2g

- Fat: 2g

- Fiber: 0g

- Sugar: 3g

- Sodium: 33mg

benfits: Adds moisture to the pastry dough, helping to create a soft texture.

1/2 tsp vanilla extract:

- Calories: 6

- Carbohydrates: 0g

- Protein: 0g

- Fat: 0g

- Fiber: 0g

- Sugar: 0g

- Sodium: 0mg

benfits: Adds flavor to the pastry, enhancing its overall taste.

1/2 cup powdered sugar, for dusting:

- Calories: 194

- Carbohydrates: 50g

- Protein: 0g

- Fat: 0g

- Fiber: 0g

- Sugar: 49g

- Sodium: 2mg

benfits: Adds a sweet finish to the pastry and enhances its appearance.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands or variations in the ingredients used.

Gosh-e-Fil is a delicious and unique pastry that is perfect for tea time or as a sweet treat any time of day.