Nowadays, that traveling has gone far beyond its ordinary limits, there is a variety of tourism options, including gastro-tourism. Surely, Armenia is of no exception. Aside from newly-developing gastro, wine and food tours, you can also visit various restaurants and cafes offering traditional Armenian dishes. If the unfamiliar Armenian names of dishes confuse you and you are not sure what to try, then you might consider following this list.
Basturma
- Starting from appetizers, Basturmais a good option for those who are not indifferent to meat products. It is air-dried and seasoned beef, which is present in all holiday tables. Many Armenians also like to make omelette with it or eat it with bread.
Khorovats
- Speaking of holidays, it is worth mentioning that almost none of Armenian big parties will take place without Khorovats. Interestingly, while it is basically Armenian barbecue, it is very different from other barbecues. Mostly made on wooden oven, its preparation only is already a big ritual. However, the taste will not disappoint you, either. If you like meat and prefer dishes made of fresh pork, than you will, definitely, like Armenian Khorovats.
Khash
- Another important dish from Armenian cuisine is Khash, which is usually eaten in cold weather. It is made from boiled parts of cow and has a soup-like consistency. Usually served with lavash (Armenian flat bread) and garlic, although not very appetizing at first sight, it is very delicious once you give it a try.
Harissa
- As Khash, Harissaalso requires long hours to be prepared. However, the result is worth the wait. Although the process is long and requires energy, the dish needs only two ingredients- peeled wheat and chicken. During preparation it should be stirred until the chicken is almost completely dissolved, which gives Harissa a porridge-like consistency. It should be served with butter and should be eaten almost immediately in a very hot condition. Although heavy, it is very satisfying and is a perfect meal for a cozy evening with family.
Ghapama
- Ghapamais a very popular traditional Armenian holiday dish. It is baked pumpkin filled with rice and dried fruits. It can also contain various nuts and fruits, as well as honey or sugar as a sweetener. With very interesting sweet taste, it is a beloved dish of many.
Armenian Snickers- Sujukh
- Armenian food includes also many pastries and sweets, one of which isSujukh or as many foreigners call it- Armenian snickers. Made from grape juice and walnuts, it is very similar to Georgian Churchkhela, however is sweeter and the preparation process is a little bit different. Nobody can pass indifferent across this favorite New Year’s delicacy.
Gata
- Gata is Armenian sweet bread. It is made from dough and the filling- khoriz prepared by three ingredients- flour, sugar and butter. Differing from region to region, the filling might also include walnuts. You can buy gata from supermarkets and from different spots where homemade food is being sold. For instance, the most famous spot where you can buy homemade gata is near Geghard Monastery. Once you get there, it is almost impossible not to notice people who sell different pastries, as well as homemade gata, which is, definitely, worth a try.
Although Armenian recipes mostly don’t contain complicated ingredients, which are hard to find, the preparation process usually takes a long time and requires certain knowledge of cooking techniques. Surely, if you have a chance, do not hesitate to try the home-made versions of these dishes. However, you can also eat those at restaurants or even by from markets and supermarkets.
As all these dishes vary from one province to another, it is always a good idea to try them made by different cooks at different cities and villages. Travel across Armenia and discover the country’s real “taste”.