Khorovats, or khorovatz, the national dish of Armenia, is a traditional Armenian barbecue that brings people together and is marinated with a variety of herbs and spices for a flavorful experience.
In this article, we will delve into the fascinating facts about Khorovats, exploring its history, ingredients, and the cultural significance it holds for the Armenian people. Our team at Remitly created this guide as part of our new series celebrating the traditional foods of our global customers.
The Origins of Khorovats: A Culinary Tradition
Khorovats has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. It was a common dish among the nomadic tribes of Armenia, who would gather around the fire and roast meat on skewers.
Over time, khorovats became a symbol of hospitality and a way to bring people together. It evolved into a dish that was reserved for special occasions, such as weddings and religious celebrations.
The word khorovats comes from the Armenian word “khorovel,” which means “to grill.” The dish is typically made with lamb, beef, pork, or chicken, and is marinated with a variety of herbs and spices. The meat is then skewered and grilled over an open flame until it is juicy and tender.
Khorovats is more than just a dish; it is a culinary tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation. It has become an integral part of Armenian culture and is a source of pride for the Armenian people.
Armenian BBQ: Khorovats’ Cooking Technique
Grilling meat to perfection requires skill and patience, and khorovats is no exception. The meat is typically cut into large chunks and marinated for several hours to infuse it with flavor.
Once the chunks of meat are marinated, they’re skewered and grilled over an open flame. The meat is turned frequently to ensure that it is evenly cooked on all sides. The key to a perfect khorovats is to cook the meat slowly, so it remains juicy and tender, and to avoid charring.
Khorovats can be cooked on a traditional skewer or on a modern grill, with the former imparting more smoky flavor.
Marination Magic: The Secret to Flavorful Khorovats
The secret to a flavorful khorovats is in the marinade. The ingredients for the marinade can vary, but it usually includes olive oil, onion, garlic, salt, black pepper, and a variety of herbs such as thyme, oregano, and rosemary.
Some recipes also call for lemon juice, vinegar, or yogurt, which help to tenderize the meat and add tanginess to the dish.
The meat should be marinated for several hours, or even overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat fully. The longer the meat is marinated, the more flavorful it will be. It is important to use fresh herbs and spices when making the marinade.
Recipe: Traditional Armenian Khorovats
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of lamb, beef, pork, or chicken, cut into large chunks
- 1/4 cup olive oil
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1 onion, finely chopped
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4 cloves of garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon dried rosemary
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Juice of 1 lemon
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2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (optional)
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Yogurt for serving (optional)
Instructions:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, thyme, oregano, rosemary, lemon juice, and red wine vinegar (if using). Mix well to create the marinade.
Add the meat chunks to the marinade and toss to coat them evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Thread the marinated meat onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning frequently to ensure even cooking. The meat should be cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Once the meat is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
Serve the khorovats hot, with yogurt on the side if desired. Enjoy!
Note: If you don’t have access to a grill, you can also cook the khorovats in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the skewers on a baking sheet. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through.
Remember, khorovats is best enjoyed with friends and family, so gather around and savor this delicious Armenian culinary tradition!
More about Armenian Cuisine
Armenian cuisine heavily incorporates grains, fresh vegetables, and an array of meats into its dishes. Lavash, a thin flatbread, and khorovats, Armenian barbecue, are among the most iconic foods.
Other traditional dishes include dolma (stuffed vegetables or grape leaves), khash (a tripe soup considered a hangover remedy), and basturma (air-dried cured beef). A variety of herbs and spices like dill, parsley, and red and black pepper are commonly used to season foods, while fruits such as apricots, pomegranates, and figs often appear in both savory and sweet preparations.
Armenian meals often start with meze, a spread of appetizers such as stuffed grape leaves, olives, and hummus, followed by a main course usually featuring meat or fish.
In terms of sweets, gata, a pastry filled with sweetened butter and nuts, and pakhlava, layers of filo dough, honey, and nuts, are popular choices. Yogurt-based sides like matsun (fermented milk similar to yogurt) or jajik (a dip made with yogurt, cucumbers, and herbs) are also common accompaniments.
The cuisine is influenced by Mediterranean, Eastern European, and Middle Eastern flavors, making it a unique mosaic that reflects Armenia’s diverse cultural heritage.
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