Easy Armenian Puff Pastry Treats: A Delicious Introduction to the Flavors of the Caucasus
The Caucasus region is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and mouth-watering cuisine. One of the most beloved and iconic components of Armenian cuisine is puff pastry, which is used to make a variety of sweet and savory treats. In this article, we’ll explore some easy Armenian puff pastry treats that you can make at home, introducing you to the flavors and traditions of this incredible region.
What is Puff Pastry?
Puff pastry, also known as "pârt na" in Armenian, is a laminated dough made from flour, water, and yeast. It’s designed to be flaky and buttery, with layers of dough and fat (usually butter or oil) stacked and rolled out to create a crispy, shattering texture. This versatile dough is used to make a range of Armenian treats, from savory pastries to sweet desserts.
Easy Armenian Puff Pastry Treats to Try at Home
- Boarik (Cola Cream Puffs): These addictive, creamy pastries are a classic Armenian treat. Simply roll out puff pastry, spread with a mixture of condensed milk, vanilla, and orange zest, and bake until golden. Dust with powdered sugar and top with a cherry or raspberry.
- Cherky (Savory Pastry Triangles): These triangles are filled with a mix of crumbled feta cheese, chopped fresh parsley, and a pinch of paprika. Roll out puff pastry, spread with a thin layer of butter, and cut into triangles. Add filling, seal edges, and bake until golden.
- Pakhlava (Layered Pastry Cake): This show-stopping cake is made by layering puff pastry with nuts, honey, and rose water. Brush with melted butter and bake until golden, then dust with powdered sugar.
- Katareghi (Cinnamon Sugar Donuts): Cut out circles of puff pastry, frying until golden, then dust with cinnamon sugar. These sweet treats are a perfect breakfast or snack.
- Shehreb (Fruit Pastries): Roll out puff pastry, spread with a mixture of jam and sugar, and top with sliced fruit (such as strawberries or apples). Roll up and bake until caramelized.
Tips for Making Easy Armenian Puff Pastry Treats
- Start with store-bought puff pastry to save time and effort.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fillings and toppings – the possibilities are endless!
- Keep puff pastry at room temperature until ready to use, as it can become too cold and difficult to roll out.
- Brush pastry with melted butter and sprinkle with powdered sugar for an extra burst of flavor and added crunch.
Conclusion
Armenian puff pastry treats are a delicious window into the flavors and traditions of the Caucasus region. With these easy recipes, you can introduce yourself to the warmth and hospitality of Armenian cuisine, inviting friends and family to share in the joy of these mouth-watering pastries. So go ahead, get puffing, and taste the flavors of Armenia from the comfort of your own kitchen!
These are known as “gata” in Armenian but typically take a few hours of prep time with a bit more technical steps. Here is an easy version inspired by famed Armenian YouTuber/Home Chef Heghine
•Puff pastry sheets (you can use one large or the smaller square sheets)
•150 g butter, melted
•200 – 250 g sugar (or to your desired sweetness)
•1 egg white
•1 tbsp vanilla
•250 g of flour
•1 egg plus the yolk from the earlier egg
•1 tbsp cinnamon
•1 c chopped walnuts
Mix the sugar, egg white and vanilla. slowly add the melted butter until a paste forms. Make sure sugar is dissolved
Add flour, mix with hand until well combined and a squeeze of the mixture forms in your hand without breaking shape.
Flatten the puff pastry sheet to thin it out and expand the size.
Layer the filling to the edges and press down with rolling pin.
Mix the walnuts and cinnamon and sprinkle over the mixture.
Roll the pastry sheets into a log. Once rolled, flatten the top with your hand to form a more square shape.
Cut into your desired size
Brush each piece with 1 egg + 1 egg yolk mixture
Bake at 375 *F for 30 min or until golden brown
Easy Armenian puff pastry treats
These are known as “gata” in Armenian but typically take a few hours of prep time with a bit more technical steps. Here is an easy version inspired by famed Armenian YouTuber/Home Chef Heghine
Ingredients
•Puff pastry sheets (you can use one large or the smaller square sheets)
•150 g butter, melted
•200 – 250 g sugar (or to your desired sweetness)
•1 egg white
•1 tbsp vanilla
•250 g of flour
•1 egg plus the yolk from the earlier egg
•1 tbsp cinnamon
•1 c chopped walnuts
Instructions
1. Mix the sugar, egg white and vanilla. slowly add the melted butter until a paste forms. Make sure sugar is dissolved
2. Add flour, mix with hand until well combined and a squeeze of the mixture forms in your hand without breaking shape.
3. Flatten the puff pastry sheet to thin it out and expand the size.
4. Layer the filling to the edges and press down with rolling pin.
5. Mix the walnuts and cinnamon and sprinkle over the mixture.
6. Roll the pastry sheets into a log. Once rolled, flatten the top with your hand to form a more square shape.
7. Cut into your desired size
8. Brush each piece with 1 egg + 1 egg yolk mixture
9. Bake at 375 *F for 30 min or until golden brown
Where is the recipe?