Armenia is a very ancient country whose people have cultivated grains and vegetables and have raised livestock for thousands of years. The great diversity present in this cuisine comes from the fact that it has evolved, changed, and expanded for such a long period of time.

The foundations of Armenian cuisine are lamb, eggplant, yogurt, and bulgur, but they also eat many kinds of beans and legumes, greens and vegetables like peppers, tomatoes, spinach, purslane, pumpkins and squash. Many different kinds of fruits are available in Armenia, such as pomegranates, apricots, quinces, apples, and plums. Nuts and seeds used in the cuisine include sesame, pine nuts, pistachios, and walnuts. It is not uncommon for the Armenians to combine dried fruits and seeds or nuts to make wonderful and rich desserts. Flavorings like sumac, garlic, mint, parsley, coriander, and cinnamon are used, along with rose water. It is common to see meat stews and soups flavored with fresh and dried fruits in this part of the world. Armenians enjoy eating meatballs, briny cheese, and pickled, dried and marinated vegetables. As in other countries of the region, kebabs and stuffed vegetables are eaten as well, but surprisingly, Armenians do not depend on rice dishes nearly as much as their neighbors.

Some Armenian dishes include:

Lavash

This is well-known Armenian flatbread, more pliable and easier to work with than its thicker cousin the pita. It is commonly available in most North American supermarkets.

Lahmacun

Lahmacun is one of the most famous Armenian dishes. It is a type of Armenian pizza with ground lamb on top.

Ghapama

This is a stew of dried fruits and nuts baked inside a pumpkin.

Rogig

This is an unusually-made candy made from walnuts and grape juice. It takes several days to make because the preparer needs to thread a string through the walnuts and let them drip dry several nights in a row. This is truly a unique confection, and it is worth the time it takes to prepare.

Armenian cuisine is distinct among its neighboring cuisines due to its longevity. It offers those who explore it some delicious foods and a new appreciation for the diversity of cuisine in this part of the world.

Sources:

HamovHotov. “Armenian Recipes.” HamovHotov.com