Top-10 to Eat
Top-10 to EAT
Armenian traditional cuisine is known for its rich, diverse and flavorful dishes, which are influenced by history, culture and location. A gastro tour to Armenia offers not just a feast for the senses but also a connection with the country’s heritage and traditions. Armenian food combines fresh, locally-sourced ingredients like herbs, fruits, vegetables and meat, giving it a distinct taste. Here one may find a wide range of both meat-based and vegetarian dishes. Armenian cuisine is rooted in centuries of history, blending ancient recipes with modern interpretations. Armenian lavash, khorovats, and tolma have been passed down through generations, preserving the country’s cultural identity. So, explore the authentic food heritage up close, learn about the traditional cooking methods and Enjoy the hospitality of the Armenian people.
Tolma is one of the most iconic and beloved dishes in Armenian cuisine. It is a savory, comforting dish made of grape leaves (as well as cabbage leaves) stuffed with a flavorful mixture of rice, meat (usually lamb or beef), herbs and spices. Tolma is both a symbol of Armenian culinary tradition and a dish that evokes a sense of home and hospitality. The recipe of making Tolma is traditionally passed down from the elder members of the family to the youngest ones.
Harisa is deeply rooted in Armenia’s history and culture. This hearty and comforting dish is a type of porridge made from wheat and meat, typically chicken or lamb, slow-cooked to create a rich and flavorful
meal. Harisa is particularly popular during the winter season.
Khorovats is the quintessential Armenian barbecue, widely regarded as one of the most popular dishes in Armenian cuisine. It is a grilled meat dish, traditionally made from marinated chunks of pork, lamb, beef, or
chicken, skewered and grilled over an open flame. Khorovats is more than just a meal; it’s a social and cultural event. It’s deeply tied to Armenian traditions of hospitality, community and celebration. This is one of the main dishes while celebrating birthdays, wedding ceremonies and other important holidays in Armenian families.
Khash is a traditional dish of the Armenian cuisine. It is a type of soup or stew made from boiled cow or sheep parts, specifically the feet. The dish is typically cooked slowly over several hours, resulting in a flavorful, nourishing broth that is full of collagen and natural gelatin. While it may sound unusual to those unfamiliar with it, Khash is beloved in Armenia for its deeply comforting and restorative qualities. It is
especially famous during the winter months – friends and families are usually gathered together just to eat Khash, as it is like a real special ceremony.
Ghapama is a traditional and festive dish that is one of the significant dishes especially during special occasions and celebrations. It is a stuffed pumpkin dish, combining rice, dried fruits, nuts and spices, all cooked inside a whole pumpkin. The resulting dish is a vibrant and aromatic celebration of sweet and savory flavors, typically served during Thanksgiving, New Year, and religious holidays like Vartavar (the Feast of the Transfiguration) and Christmas.
Zhengyalov Hats is a traditional Armenian flatbread filled with a variety of fresh herbs and greens. The name “Zhengyalov Hats” roughly translates to “bread with herbs,” and it’s a popular dish, particularly in the region of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh), though you’ll find it throughout Armenia. The bread is soft and chewy, filled with a delightful mixture of fresh greens and then baked to perfection. There is a special list of the herbs that should be mixed while cooking it.
Khurjin is an Armenian traditional and unique dish, known primarily for its stuffed bread. Khurjin is often referred to as an Armenian stuffed pouch. It is traditionally made from a dough that is stuffed with a variety of fillings and then wrapped and baked. The fillings can range from meats, cheese, vegetables or herbs, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Khashlama is a another traditional Armenian dish that’s often considered the soul of Armenian comfort food. It is a hearty, rich stew that combines tender meat (usually lamb, though beef or pork can also be used) with vegetables and aromatic herbs, all cooked slowly to create a flavorful, nourishing meal. Khashlama is usually served during the cold season, but one may also taste Summer season Khashlama – here all the tasty local eco vegetables are added, so feel the smell and Enjoy it!
Sharots is a traditional Armenian sweet that combines simple ingredients to create a delightful treat. Sharots is made from walnuts and grape juice special syrup as well as some spices. This simple combination creates a unique, rich and satisfying dessert that is both nourishing and delicious.
Gata is a traditional Armenian pastry that holds a special place in the hearts of Armenians and is beloved for its sweet, flaky, and rich texture. This delicious pastry is made with a buttery dough and is typically filled with a sweet mixture of sugar, butter, and flour, often flavored with vanilla or cardamom. Gata is commonly associated with celebrations, festivals and family gatherings in Armenia, making it a dessert that is both delicious and deeply rooted in Armenian culture.