The Koochi Afghan Cafe is not what you might expect from the Gungahlin marketplace. Similarly, not many of us would have delved far in to the delights of Afghan cuisine, with our experiences of their culture overshadowed by endless years of war, particularly over the last decade.
And, it is worth noting that in the 60s, Afghanistan was possibly the longest stop on the hippy trail, where hash was consumed in large quantities and travellers lost months in the shadows of the Hindu Kush. Even Tony and Marion Wheeler, – who established the Lonely Planet Empire – spent an extended time there, and have written extensively of the rich cultural tapestry of Kabul as a place where people from all around the world would meet over spiced teas and long pipes.
That was until the Soviets moved in. Things haven’t been so great since.
So, on Gungahlin Place, just off the central crossroads at Hibberson Street as you head towards the nature reserve, you can find yourself a little slice of Kabul in the heart of one of Canberra’s newest regions. It’s a charming venue filled with all sorts of delicious smells as soon as you walk through the door.
However that is all sad history. Here, in the present, we have the opportunity to discover what Afghan food is all about. And while the emphasis may be meat dishes deceptively complex – some may consider kebab (small cuts of meat on skewers and grilled over an open flame) to be simplistic, however it is delicateness of the meat and it’s marinades that take the dishes to another level.
For vegetarians there is also plenty on offer. One favourite is the Borrani Bonjon – essentially eggplant that is fried and served with onions, tomatoes, and dressed with mint and yoghurt. It was delicious, and provided a lovely contrast to our Tikkah Lamb (kebab) served with flat bread, a spicy little salad and dusted with sumac. Koochi is cheap, friendly, and importantly, delicious.
Last week saw the end of Ramadan, and Eid festivities are very much underway with Canberra’s annual Eid Al-Fitr celebration at Reconciliation Place this Sunday. Be sure to get out to Koochi to taste the flavours of Afghanistan (not too mention the delicious green tea) before it’s time to fast again!
