Afghan culture can be traced back roughly 2,500 years to the Achaemenid Empire. Over that time, the Afghan people have developed numerous traditions and customs unique to the region. According to Afghan Kebab House II in New York City understanding how Afghan food, art, and music converge in the lives of the Afghan people can help shine a light on the culture of this unique group.

• Art: Afghanistan has a rich history of painting, pottery, and architecture, but one of the region’s most unique artistic traditions revolves around the creation of Afghan rugs. These oriental rugs can range in size and may feature bright geometric designs specific to the region or artistic scenes that tell a story.
• Music: Afghanistan celebrates its heritage through folk songs that tell the region’s history. Afghan music is created with the help of traditional instruments found in the Middle East. Some instruments you may hear when listening to Afghan music include flutes, sitars, and tablas (which are small drums).
• Food: Traditional food is very important in Afghanistan, and Afghan Kebab House II specializes in this kind of authentic Afghan food preparation. According to their team, some staples of authentic Afghan cuisine include pilau rice; vegetables such as spinach, eggplant, and zucchini; and meat dishes that feature chicken, beef, and lamb. Kebabs with marinated meat are also a staple of Afghan cuisine, as are dumplings commonly filled with herbs and spices, scallions, and different kinds of meat.