Armenia: Location and People
Armenia is located in the Caucasus region, bordered by Georgia to the north, Azerbaijan to the east and southwest, Iran to the south, and Turkey to the west.
A Few Wonders of Armenia
1. Garni Temple: Garni Temple is a stunning ancient structure. This pagan temple, built in the 1st century AD, sits atop a hill overlooking the Azat River. It’s a unique blend of Greek and Armenian architecture.
2. Lake Sevan: Lake Sevan is a breathtaking high-altitude lake. Surrounded by mountains, it’s a popular spot for hiking, fishing, and relaxation. The lake’s beauty and tranquility will leave you mesmerized.
3. Geghard Monastery: Geghard Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Carved into the mountainside, this 13th-century monastery is famous for its stunning rock-cut architecture and beautiful khachkars (cross-stones).
4. Mount Ararat: Mount Ararat is an iconic symbol of Armenia. This majestic mountain, though located in Turkey, is a beloved landmark and cultural icon in Armenia. Its snow-capped peak is a sight to behold.
People of Armenia
The people of Armenia are known for their warmth and hospitality. Armenians are proud of their rich history, culture, and traditions. You’ll find a strong sense of community and family ties, with gatherings often centered around delicious food, music, and storytelling.
Traditional Dress of Armenia
Traditional Armenian dress is a vibrant reflection of the country’s culture. The iconic attire includes intricately embroidered dresses, shirts, and aprons, often adorned with cross-stitch patterns and symbolic motifs. Women wear beautiful Taraz (traditional dresses) with headscarves, while men don distinctive shirts and coats with ornate belts.
Pulses and Recipes
Armenia does cultivate pulses, and they’re a significant part of the country’s agriculture. Pulses like lentils, beans, and chickpeas are staple foods in Armenia, providing essential protein sources for the population. The government supports pulse cultivation through policies promoting sustainable farming practices and improving yield.
Today we are making Mshosh, one of the oldest dishes from Western Armenia’s Van region. Also known as Vana Mshosh, its name comes from mshmosh, meaning wild apricot. The sweet-savory-nutty combo is so classic Armenian – apricots, walnuts and lentils all grow abundantly in the Ararat Valley.
Mshosh (Armenian Lentil, Apricot & Walnut)
It’s a beautiful, hearty Lenten dish – for fasting days in Armenia. Soft-cooked lentils are simmered with sweet sautéed onions, crunchy walnuts, and chewy dried apricots, seasoned simply with salt, black pepper, a pinch of cinnamon powder and fresh coriander.
You need:
100 gm brown lentils (whole brown masoor)
1 onion, sliced
1 tbsp oil
¼ cup walnuts, coarsely crushed (akhrot)
3-4 dried apricots, chopped small
2 tbsp lemon juice (according to taste)
Salt, black pepper, to taste
¼ tsp cinnamon
Parsley or coriander to finish
Method:
Cook the lentils:
- Wash the brown lentils and soak for 5 minutes. Boil them in 2 cups of salted water until soft but not mushy – they should still hold their shape, about 10 minutes.
- Then drain and set aside.
3. Prep everything: Thinly slice the onion, chop the dried apricots into small pieces, coarsely crush the walnuts, finely chop the coriander leaves, and squeeze fresh lemon juice.
4. Keep everything aside ready to go.
5. In a pan, heat oil and fry the sliced onions till lightly golden brown.
6. Add the chopped apricots, walnuts, a pinch of cinnamon and black pepper, and toss for a minute until fragrant.
7. Then add the cooked dal and gently mix everything together. Stir for 2-3 minutes more so the flavours blend.
8. Take it off the heat, add the lemon juice and adjust the seasoning. Mshosh should taste perfectly sour-sweet-nutty – add a little more lemon if you like it tangier.
9. Top generously with fresh chopped coriander leaves and serve warm or cold with lavash.
Your Mshosh is ready!
To serve: Enjoy it hot or cold – as a main, a side, or spread warm on lavash as an appetizer.
Happy reading, Healthy cooking!
Coming up next… Pulses in Azerbaijan.
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Great going! 👍
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