#Armenian food

[persianatpenn]

Persian-Armenian Potluck

Earlier this October, I helped organize a cultural crossover event between the Persian and Armenian student societies here at UPenn. The event was a potluck where each attendee could bring a dish from their respective culture. It was held on campus, in one of the dormitory lounge spaces. I personally prepared سلاد شیرازی, a salad consisting of diced cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and herbs, served with olive oil and vinegar as a dressing. This is my favorite salad and a particularly popular one in the Middle East. Some of the Persian dishes and delicacies which made appearances were: تهدیگ, گز ، and عدس پلو. The Armenian dishes included baklava, Armenian bread, and Lamajun— flatbread topped with minced meat and herbs. I was interested to see the overlap between the Persian and Armenian culinary traditions and broader cultures. Like with Persian cuisine, a lot of Armenian food centered around flatbread and meat dishes. There were also many specific foods that were shared between both cultures, including dolmeh and doogh. Some students were of Armenian/Iranian descent, being ethnically Armenian but having family who grew up in Iran. This definitely challenged my perceptions of Iran being relatively culturally homogeneous. I was able to see how there are many different ethnolinguistic groups comprising the vibrant population of the country. One thing I particularly enjoyed about the experience was that I was be able to practice my Farsi skills, especially with my friends from Iran. I also enjoyed the feeling of nostalgia imparted by the familiar tastes and smells of home. 

دانيال

[urbandrivingskills-blog]

Manti. Pasadena, CA. October 2023.

[nixon-alice]

Armenian Food History: A Journey Through Culinary Traditions

Introduction

Armenian cuisine is a rich tapestry of flavors, influenced by the country's history, geography, and cultural diversity. This article delves into the fascinating history of Armenian food, exploring its origins, staple ingredients, traditional dishes, and the cultural significance of culinary traditions. Join us on a mouthwatering journey through the diverse and flavorful world of Armenian cuisine.

Armenian Food: A Reflection of Cultural Heritage

The Significance of Food in Armenian Culture

In Armenian culture, food holds a special place. It is not merely sustenance but a means of connecting with family, friends, and the community. Sharing meals is a cherished tradition, fostering bonds and creating lasting memories. Armenian hospitality is legendary, and food plays a central role in expressing warmth and generosity.

Staple Ingredients in Armenian Cuisine

Wheat: The Grain that Sustains

Wheat is a staple ingredient in Armenian cuisine, providing the foundation for various breads, pastries, and dishes. Armenians are known for their love of bread, and lavash, a thin, unleavened flatbread, is a culinary icon of Armenia. Other wheat-based dishes, such as gata (a sweet pastry) and anushabur (a soup made with wheat berries), also showcase the importance of this grain.

Meat and Dairy: Cornerstones of Armenian Cooking

Meat and dairy products occupy a significant place in Armenian cuisine. Lamb, beef, and poultry are commonly used in dishes like khorovats, a traditional Armenian barbecue. Dairy products such as yogurt and cheese are essential ingredients in many recipes, adding richness and depth of flavor to dishes like basturma (cured beef) and tolma (stuffed grape leaves).

Fruits, Vegetables, and Herbs: A Bounty of Flavors

Armenia's favorable climate and fertile land allow for the cultivation of a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Apricots, pomegranates, figs, and grapes are among the fruits that thrive in the region. Vegetables like eggplants, tomatoes, peppers, and herbs such as mint and parsley are integral to Armenian recipes, providing freshness and vibrant flavors.

Traditional Armenian Dishes

Khorovats: The Art of Armenian Barbecue

Khorovats, a traditional Armenian barbecue, is an integral part of Armenian culinary culture. It involves marinating meat, typically lamb or pork, in a flavorful blend of spices and grilling it over open flames. The result is succulent, charred pieces of meat that are often enjoyed with lavash, fresh herbs, and pickled vegetables.

Dolma: Stuffed Delights

Dolma is a beloved dish in Armenian cuisine. It consists of various vegetables, such as grape leaves, bell peppers, or cabbage leaves, stuffed with a savory mixture of rice, ground meat, herbs, and spices. Dolma is typically served with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of lemon juice, adding tanginess to the dish.

Lavash: The Versatile Flatbread

Lavash, a soft, thin flatbread, holds a special place in Armenian cuisine. It has been a staple for centuries and is used in various ways. It serves as a wrap for khorovats, a base for toppings in dishes like lahmajoun (Armenian pizza), and even as a utensil to scoop up food. Lavash is versatile, delicious, and an indispensable part of Armenian meals.

Harissa: A Hearty Porridge

Harissa is a traditional Armenian porridge made with cracked wheat and meat, usually chicken or lamb. The dish is slow-cooked for several hours until the grains and meat meld together, resulting in a thick and hearty porridge. Harissa is often enjoyed during festive occasions, and its comforting flavors evoke a sense of nostalgia and tradition.

The Influence of Armenian Cuisine on the World

The Spread of Armenian Culinary Traditions

Armenian cuisine has left an indelible mark on the culinary landscape of the world. As Armenians migrated to different parts of the globe, they brought their culinary traditions with them, influencing the cuisines of various countries. Armenian dishes like dolma, pilaf, and baklava have found their way into the kitchens and hearts of people around the world.

Armenian Diaspora: A Global Impact

The Armenian diaspora has played a significant role in promoting Armenian cuisine internationally. Armenian communities in different countries have established restaurants, bakeries, and food businesses that showcase the flavors and traditions of their homeland. These establishments not only preserve Armenian culinary heritage but also introduce it to a wider audience.

Preserving and Celebrating Armenian Food Culture

Food Festivals and Culinary Events

Armenians take pride in their culinary heritage and celebrate it through food festivals and culinary events. These gatherings bring together people from different backgrounds to savor traditional dishes, share recipes, and pass on culinary knowledge to younger generations. Events like the Yerevan Wine Days and the Dolma Festival highlight the richness and diversity of Armenian cuisine.

Traditional Cooking Techniques and Utensils

Armenian cuisine has a wealth of traditional cooking techniques and utensils that have been passed down through generations. From the tonir (a clay oven used for baking bread) to the saj (a domed griddle for making lavash), these tools play a vital role in preserving the authentic flavors and textures of Armenian dishes. The use of traditional methods adds a unique charm to the culinary experience.

The Role of Food in Armenian Festivities

Armenian festivities are incomplete without a lavish spread of food. Whether it's weddings, New Year celebrations, or religious holidays like Easter, food plays a central role in bringing people together and honoring traditions. Special dishes like gata (sweet bread) during Easter and choreg (buttery, braided bread) during Christmas add a sense of occasion and joy to these festivities.

Conclusion

Armenian food history is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, influenced by centuries of cultural exchange and a deep-rooted connection to the land. From the delicious aromas of khorovats on a summer evening to the comforting warmth of harissa on a winter's day, Armenian cuisine reflects the spirit, hospitality, and resilience of its people. As the world embraces diverse culinary traditions, Armenian food continues to captivate and delight, sharing its rich history one bite at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are some popular Armenian desserts?

A: Some popular Armenian desserts include baklava (layered pastry with nuts and syrup), gata (sweet bread), and paklava (sweet pastry with layers of filo dough and nuts).

Q: Are there vegetarian options in Armenian cuisine?

A: Yes, Armenian cuisine offers several vegetarian dishes such as lentil soup, eggplant dolma, and yalanchi (stuffed grape leaves without meat).

Q: Is lavash gluten-free?

A: Lavash is typically made with wheat flour, so it is not gluten-free. However, there are gluten-free variations available using alternative flours.

Q: What is the significance of Armenian bread in the culture?

A: Bread holds great cultural significance in Armenia. It symbolizes sustenance, prosperity, and hospitality. Sharing bread is considered an act of goodwill and friendship.

[formeryelpers]

Fresh Bites, 105 N Hill Ave, Unit 103, Pasadena, CA 91106

Fresh Bites recently opened, taking over the Melt-It space. It’s Armenian-owned and is a restaurant and bakery. Choose from appetizers (e.g., hummus, moutabal, sarma), breakfast, salads, sandwiches, and flatbreads. They have lahmajun, manakish, boregs, khatchabouri, etc.

Mante ($16.99): mini dumplings filled with ground beef, topped with garlic yogurt sauce and tomato sauce. The dumplings were baked and slightly crispy on top. The beef filling was a bit saltier than I prefer but the sauce helped counter that. The thick tomato sauce tasted too much like tomato paste. The garlic yogurt sauce was better.

Mr. Froyo enjoyed the sarma (aka dolmas, stuffed grape leaves, $7.99). He said they were a bit soft but not mushy. He also liked the lentil kofte ($7.99) which was soft like a paste and the eech (bulgur salad, $6.99). I found the eech too sour.

The service was a bit awkward. I walked in and there was no one by the register. After a couple of minutes, the owner (?) got up from one of the tables. I noticed he had his stuff strewn over two tables in the dining area.

They also sell packaged cookies, baked goods, and spices. The ambiance is casual and the walls are covered in movie posters.

There’s a 4% charge for credit card payments.

4 out of 5 stars

By Lolia S.

[jtem]

I go here for Armenian pizza 

[armenianvendor]

Top 10 Traditional Armenian Foods

Dive into the diverse world of Armenian food with our selection of the top 10 traditional dishes. From hearty meats to intricate pastries and flavorful vegan options, Armenian cuisine offers something for everyone. Experience the warmth and richness of Armenian culture, increasingly popular among vegan food in USA.

[metamorphesque]

Yet another sweet fact about the Armenian language: the word for "friend" is ընկեր "unker" (the stress is on the second syllable, and the first "u" is pronounced like the "a" in the word "arise"). In this word, the prefix "un" means "together," and "ker" means "eat." So, essentially, ընկեր "unker a friend" is someone you share your food with ���

[antoniettabrandeisova]

The Mithridate Wine, c. 2009. Rubik Kocharian (Armenian, 1940-2019) 16" x 20", oil on linen,

[fattributes]

Lula Meatballs with a Spiced Tomato Sauce and Sumac Onion Salad

[tigerjpg]

serj tankian's last meal episode is a great watch btw

[thestudentfarmer]

9.30 2024 update

Hello to you gardeners, urban homesteaders and frugal or sustainable folks :)

Got a small update today of garden and kitchen stuff~

I've got some armenian cucumber seed! Their drying right now and I gotta do a germination test before getting too excited- but still! 🥳 Once that's done I'll be planting some new ones in the garden and bagging some to share with friends and save soem for later.

Seed started some brocoli

And left side louffa. Running low on them now. Right side cabbage

Also seed started some other stuff

Theres a small golden melon I hear grows real sweet in winter. I got it on suggestion from a local grocer.

Patty pan, it's a summer variety but the seeds getting old so I'm just gonna see if it grows.

Cocozelle squash and golden yellow.

Direct seeded some carrots, radish and kale.

The sunchokes are staring to get a bit lush, here's hoping to see some blooms again soon.

As well the sweet potato started flushing colors, I'm hoping it's related to the heat and not a nutrient deficiency. Not enough leaves in my opinion to harvest yet, hoping to see more growth with weather cooling down.

Food wise,

Today I'm going to be working on making tortillas, because we want to have tacos this week. Tortillas have been on my learn to make list, so we're excited to try

I'm also going to be making some Chile sauce, egg salad and if time permits a pumpkin pie :) (and pumpkin fritters, a special suprise)

That's it for the update currently :)

🌱Happy Homesteading 🌱

[californiaquail]

you go into grocery outlet to see if they have some toothpaste and cheap blackout curtains to replace the ones your cat destroyed and you walk out with an armenian pastry and fucking fruity ass infused gin even though you literally have gin at home and don't even drink that much

[formeryelpers]

Zaatar Factory & Bakery, 2909 N Glenoaks Blvd, Burbank, CA 91504

Zaatar Factory & Bakery is a traditional Armenian bakery that opened 12 years ago. They have various kinds of bureks, manaeesh, lahmajune, khachapuri, manti, baklava, cookies, etc.

They also carry grocery store items like spices, coffee, condiments, pickles, tea, canned goods, halva, etc. The building looks older. There’s a refrigerator with hummus, desserts, drinks, etc.

Zaatar Cheese Sandwich ($6.99): fresh thin dough wrapped around a thick slab of feta with zaatar. The cheese was too thick.

Spicy cheese burek ($3.99): Thicker than average, flavor was good but it’s too thick

Veggie lahmanjun: finely diced mushrooms, red pepper paste spread on a thin flatbread with crisp edges �� a nice alternative to the usual meat based lahmajun

#6 Wrap ($10.69?): It was huge – 14 inches. The manaishe was thicker than I’m used to. It was wrapped around fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and mint. The tomatoes were mealy. The wrap was too dry and heavy.

Prices were not posted on the menu or for the baked goods in the display cases. Online ordering is available. It’s a good idea to order online or call first because some items take awhile to make (like 20 minutes). Parking was easy to find as they’re in a strip mall with parking.

3 out of 5 stars

By Lolia S.

[tankgotstuckinthecircusgate]

my biggest dissonance is how robert de niro in once upon a time in america actually looks like young carlo (but more handsome than carlo) but noodles character is nothing like him like max is a certifed carlo core. he would do everything max did

[moose-driving]

Armenia sign