Tour overview
Culinary and wine tourism in Armenia is a delightful journey that indulges the senses with flavors, aromas, and traditions deeply rooted in the country’s history. As you embark on this gastronomic adventure, prepare to savor the unique tastes of Armenian cuisine and explore the burgeoning wine scene. Here’s what you can experience during your culinary and wine tour in Armenia:
Traditional Armenian Dishes: Delight in the flavors of traditional Armenian dishes like dolma (stuffed grape leaves), khorovats (barbecue), khash (a hearty soup), and ghapama (pumpkin stuffed with rice, dried fruits, and nuts),spas (a yogurt soup). These dishes reflect the country’s agricultural heritage and use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Armenian cuisine is a true reflection of the nation’s rich cultural heritage and history, embodying the spirit of a land that has been a crossroads of civilizations for millennia. From the fertile valleys to the rugged mountains, Armenia’s diverse landscapes have nurtured a bountiful array of ingredients that form the foundation of its unique and flavorful dishes.
The apricot, considered the national fruit of Armenia, holds a cherished place in the cuisine. Dried apricots and apricot-based jams are commonly used in both sweet and savory dishes, adding a distinctive touch to the cuisine.
Lavash Baking: Participate in the age-old tradition of baking lavash, the soft, thin unleavened bread that accompanies every Armenian meal. Join locals in the process of making this staple food, and taste the warm, freshly baked lavash.
Local Markets and Food Tours: Visit bustling local markets like Vernissage in Yerevan to sample a wide range of Armenian cheeses, dried fruits, nuts, and spices. Join food tours to discover hidden culinary gems and family-run restaurants that serve authentic Armenian delicacies.
Cooking Classes: Enroll in cooking classes led by experienced chefs who will teach you the art of preparing Armenian dishes. Learn the secrets of traditional recipes and take home valuable culinary skills.
Sweet Delights: Treat your taste buds to Armenian desserts like pakhlava (layered pastry with nuts and honey), gata (sweet bread with filling), and alani (apricot fruit leather). Experience the sweetness of Armenian hospitality with a cup of traditional Armenian coffee or herbal tea.