The cuisine is something that links food and a tourism destination. It connects the mountains, forests, lakes, and other geographic identities of this destination to the food practices of people who live there. Therefore, the cuisine is one of the strong attributes of this destination that attracts more tourists. If the cuisine includes many delicious dishes, then it is a very strong incentive to visit the place, and this particularly true for the Tavush region.
Tavush villagers, as homesteaders, have generations of experience in providing for themselves year-round with all the necessary food. Following the recipes that have remained unchanged for centuries, they prepare mouth-watering preserves that combine the best flavors and nutritional values of different ingredients, and store them for the colder seasons.
Fruits and nuts are collected, and dried in the sun, or turned into juices and distinct, thick, natural jams – such as walnut or rose-petal jam. Vegetables are finely chopped and mixed into sauces, then preserved on the shelf. Even mushrooms are pickled and shelved for the winter months! Milk is turned into “matsoun” (a delicious salty yogurt) and then dried into balls, which can be kept for years and then can be hydrated and cooked up into soup. Whatever the season, there is always some homemade, tasty food on the table!
Why is Tavush food so tasty? The main secret is in freshness and authenticity of food. The local eco-friendly produce comes straight from the vegetable patches of homesteaders in the surrounding villages. Berries and mushrooms are in the market immediately after being picked in the forest.
It is not the only reason, though. The recipes of Tavush have been historically using the ingredients that grow in the lush nature and help transform these ingredients into dishes that are delicious and healthy at the same time. This helps you enjoy the trip to Tavush even more and turn it into a special occasion. The local people find special delight in sharing their food with guests and travelers since according to the Armenian customs a guest is a gift from God.
So while in Tavush and Dilijan, treat yourself to a local dish or two in one of the wonderful cafes and restaurants in Dilijan. You can find more information about the cuisine and some recipes here.
