laghman

Laghman can refer to a province in eastern Afghanistan as well as a widely known Central Asian noodle dish, with both senses sharing a name but distinct meanings.

Laghman Province is located in eastern Afghanistan. The provincial capital is Mehtarlam. The landscape is varied, encompassing valleys and foothills tied to the broader Hindu Kush region. The local economy is largely agricultural, with smallholder farming and fruit cultivation playing significant roles in many communities. Like other eastern provinces, Laghman has experienced periods of conflict and displacement, and development projects often focus on infrastructure, education, and basic services.

Lagman, sometimes spelled laghman or laghman, is a noodle-based dish that originated in Central Asia, particularly among Uyghur communities in Xinjiang, China, and along Silk Road trade routes. The dish is typically prepared with hand-pulled noodles combined with beef or lamb and a mix of vegetables such as onions, peppers, tomatoes, and sometimes potatoes. It exists in two broad families: a thick, savory meat-and-vegetable sauce served with the noodles, and a drier, stir-fried version where the noodles are tossed with the ingredients. Spices commonly include cumin, chili, garlic, and black pepper, giving a warming, aromatic profile. Variants are found across Xinjiang, other parts of Central Asia, and in Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan, and beyond, reflecting local tastes and available ingredients. In Afghan markets and households, laghman is often associated with hearty meals, prepared for family gatherings or street vendors in urban areas.