Afghan-style Spiced Pork Pâté

Ingredients

In this Afghan adaptation, the traditional Croatian pork pâté is infused with Afghan spices such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric. The pâté is served with Afghan-style accompaniments like pickled vegetables and yogurt sauce, which add a tangy and refreshing element to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Pašteta od čvaraka, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) pork cracklings 500g (1.1 lb) pork cracklings
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup yogurt 1/4 cup yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Pickled vegetables, for serving Pickled vegetables, for serving
• Naan or flatbread, for serving Naan or flatbread, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 30g, 10g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 2g, 0g
• Protein: 18g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a food processor, blend the pork cracklings until they form a smooth paste.
2. 2.
   Add cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the pork crackling paste. Blend until well combined.
3. 3.
   Gradually add yogurt and lemon juice to the mixture, blending until the pâté reaches a creamy consistency.
4. 4.
   Transfer the pâté to a serving dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
5. 5.
   Serve the Afghan-style Spiced Pork Pâté with pickled vegetables and naan or flatbread.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pork cracklings — Ensure that the pork cracklings are crispy and well-rendered for the best texture in the pâté.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier pâté, increase the amount of chili powder according to your preference.
• Adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding more salt or spices if desired.
• Serve the pâté at room temperature for the best flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the Afghan-style Spiced Pork Pâté as an appetizer or part of a mezze platter. Spread it on naan or flatbread and top with pickled vegetables for a burst of tanginess.

Presentation advice

Garnish the pâté with a sprinkle of cumin powder and a drizzle of olive oil for an elegant presentation. Serve it on a decorative platter alongside the pickled vegetables and naan or flatbread.