RESTAURANTS
NATIONAL CUISINE
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Harissa
Harissa is a ritual and festive dish with deep national roots, which is prepared on solemn days as a symbol of unity, abundance and prosperity. The dish is prepared with wheat groats and meat (chicken, lamb or beef), which are cooked for a long time in water, constantly stirring with a wooden paddle, until it becomes a viscous mass. When serving, melted butter is poured over harissa. This composition is associated with the worship of wheat as a symbol of life and the longevity of the nation. According to tradition, when Gregory the Illuminator leaves Khor Virap and comes to Vagharshapat, he decides to organize a feast, that is, to invite and entertain the people gathered around the church. To prepare the dish, he slaughters sheep and calls on the young people to knead the food: “Knead this.” From this expression, the name “harissa” originated.
NATIONAL DRINKS
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Fruit compote: a sweet and refreshing taste of tradition
Fruit compote is a refreshing and aromatic drink that Armenians have enjoyed for generations. This sweet drink is made from various fruits: apricots, cherries, plums, peaches, etc. The tradition of making fruit compote in Armenia has been formed since ancient times. Fruit compote allowed us to enjoy the sweetness of sunny fruits all year round. Each family had its own secret recipe, depending on the region and the preferred fruits.
Today, Armenian fruit compote is prepared in the same traditional way, by boiling fresh fruits with sugar and water. Its rich taste and natural aroma of fruits make it an integral part of the family table. It is indispensable during festive gatherings.
