Basira's Story:
I am originally from Afghanistan. Due to my husband’s work with an Afghan local company that was a subcontractor for US embassy projects, I had to leave Afghanistan. I arrived in the United States on March 8, 2022. My husband was terrified after the Taliban took over Kabul and planned to flee the country. My husband and I live here with our two daughters. Unfortunately, my sister and her three children, as well as my sister-in-law and her four children, are still in Kabul. I chose to make the Qabili Palau, a traditional Afghani rice and meat dish, because it is a national dish in my country and is well-liked by the majority of people. I chose to present this dish so that I could introduce it to the American people. Every time I make this dish, it evokes my imagination and takes me back to my home country and our gatherings with extended family members. For many Afghan families, Qabili Palau is an inherent element of every festival event and special occasion. I want to reveal the outside world traditional Afghan food and hospitality by making this dish. This dish is made mainly for my family and guests. 
 
About the Dish:
Qabili Palau is a traditional Afghan dish that consists of steamed rice mixed with raisins, carrots, and beef or lamb.