Top Armenian Dishes You Need to Taste

Food and specific dishes are a part of every country’s essence and traditions, and Armenia is no exception. The country is known for some of the most delicious dishes that are easily not only the locals’ favorites during various family gatherings, birthdays, and wedding ceremonies but are also a part of many religious traditions throughout the year. So, here are some of the most beloved dishes of Armenian cuisine that you could try when you are in Armenia.

Khorovats

The Armenian version of barbecue, khorovats is a popular dish at parties, weddings, and many other events. It is typically grilled over charcoal with chunks of beef, pork, or lamb that have been marinated. Fresh vegetables and lavash, a traditional flatbread, frequently accompany the dish. For many Armenians, khorovats is also a social experience where the simple preparation of the traditional meal gathers many people together to help each other and hang out. It is typically prepared on a manghal, a specialized metal grill, or in a tonir, a traditional clay oven. In contrast to conventional barbecues, which typically use gas or charcoal grills, these cooking methods produce distinct flavors.

While khorovats may only require minimal seasoning, traditional barbecues frequently feature extensive marinades and sauces. In contrast to other barbecues, where the meat may be marinated for a number of hours or even days, this one typically only involves salt, pepper, and occasionally beer or spices. A wide variety of meats, including lamb, pork, beef, chicken, and even fish, can be included in this variation of Armenian dishes. On the other hand, traditional barbecues might concentrate more on particular cuts of meat, like steak or ribs.

Dolma

Grape leaves or cabbage are stuffed with minced meat, rice, and spices to make dolma. There are many different kinds of dolma, including vegetarian versions with rice and herbs. These variations are mostly inspired by personal preferences and regional variations of this dish itself. Dolma is a flavorful addition to any meal when served with matsun (a dairy product) and garlic sauce. As a part of the most beloved Armenian national dishes, Dolma is of significant cultural significance and is even included in many festivals.

There are many variations of dolma, however, the Armenian dolma is traditionally made with grape leaves and filled with a mixture of ground meat (it’s often lamb or beef), rice, onions, and spices like cumin and coriander. There is also a tradition in Armenia to make dolma out of vegetables, as for stuffing the locals use vegetables instead of the traditional grape leaves. For example, cabbage leaves or zucchini. For example, during Easter, they make cabbage dolma instead of grape leaves dolma, which is a form of seasonal change.

Ishkhan

The well-known trout from Lake Sevan, Ishkhan, is referred to for its meaty texture and rich flavor. It can be grilled, boiled, or braised, and it is typically seasoned with herbs like basil and tarragon or stuffed with nuts and dried fruits. Armenia’s connection to its freshwater resources is highlighted in this dish. The meal is regularly served at neighborhood get-togethers with family, Easter festivities, harvest festivals, and cultural events.

 Zhingyalov Hats (bread with various greens)

 Pan-fried flatbreads stuffed with a variety of greens and herbs make up this unique dish. It represents Armenia’s abundant agricultural resources and is usually eaten as a light meal or snack. The bread is made from simple unleavened dough that has some similarities to lavash dough, as it is rolled out until paper-thin. Typically includes 10 to 20 types of finely chopped wild and cultivated herbs, including Spinach, Chickweed, Nettle, Sorrel, Beet greens, and others. Typically seasoned with salt and pepper and mixed with oil, such as corn or sunflower oil, to enhance flavor. Some zhingyalov hats variations may include ingredients like bryndza, a kind of cheese, or fried onions. The filled dough is typically cooked in a tonir (an oven built in the ground) or on a griddle known as a saj, producing a crispy exterior and a soft interior.

 Harissa

One more traditional Armenian dish that we’ll discuss is made with wheat and slow-cooked meat (usually lamb or chicken) until it becomes porridge-like. Harissa is a substantial dish and has been a part of Armenian cuisine culture for many decades. It is mostly preferred in colder weather due to being a variation of a hot creamy soup.

 Gata

Aside from meals and meaty dishes, Armenia is also known for some of the best gatas in the world. Gata is a cookie with a soft or rough texture, it has a sweet taste and in many cases is made with ingredients such as honey, nuts, etc. If you are in Yerevan, you can try out some of the best gatas in the local restaurants.

Conclusion

There are many dishes that Armenia is known to have, some of them are a part of bigger celebrations, while others are a part of everyday breakfast, lunch, and even dinner. So, when you visit Armenia, don’t forget to try out these meals and explore the full Armenian menu to find your preferences in the local cuisine.