Khorovats Kushkash

Introduction to Khorovats Kushkash

Khorovats Kushkash is a delightful traditional dish with rich historical roots. Originating from Armenia, it celebrates the essence of Armenian grilled dishes known as "Khorovats," which primarily feature grilled meats bursting with flavors. The "Kushkash" component brings a unique twist with a medley of vegetables and spices that complement the smoky taste of the grilled meat. This dish is beloved not only for its taste but also for the time-honored grilling technique that echoes the culinary artistry of Armenian cooks through generations.

The word "Khorovats" itself is a hallmark of Armenian cuisine, symbolizing any type of grilled meal. Traditionally cooked over an open flame, every piece of meat in a Khorovats possesses a distinct charred flavor that melds beautifully with the herbs and spices used in marination. The social aspect attached to making this dish, often part of festive occasions and family gatherings, adds to its cultural significance. With our variation, Khorovats Kushkash, we introduce elements that make it an intricate and flavor-packed meal.

Ingredients

To create a hearty serving of Khorovats Kushkash, you'll need the following ingredients:

• Beef - 1.5 pounds of boneless beef, cut into cubes
• Onions - 2 large onions, finely chopped
• Bell Peppers - 2 assorted colors, diced
• Eggplant - 1 large, sliced into half-moons
• Tomatoes - 3 ripe tomatoes, chopped
• Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
• Olive Oil - 3 tablespoons
• Lemons - Juice of 1 lemon
• Parsley - A bunch, chopped
• Ground Coriander - 2 teaspoons
• Paprika - 1 tablespoon
• Black Pepper - To taste
• Salt - To taste

Preparation

Step 1: Marinating the Meat

Begin by preparing the beef. Place the beef cubes into a large mixing bowl. Add onions, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, ground coriander, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix thoroughly to ensure every piece of beef is covered in the marinade. This mixture should marinate for at least 3-4 hours in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat, enhancing its taste.

Step 2: Preparing the Vegetables

While the meat is marinating, prepare the vegetables. Drizzle the eggplant slices, bell peppers, and tomatoes with a bit of olive oil and season with black pepper and salt. Set these aside until ready to grill.

Cooking Process

Step 3: Grilling the Components

Light your grill (if using charcoal, ensure it turns a consistent grey before you start grilling). Arrange the beef cubes on skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece for even cooking. Grill the beef skewers, turning occasionally, for approximately 12-15 minutes or until the desired doneness. Monitor closely and use a cooking timer to avoid overcooking. Once grilled, remove from heat and let them rest.

Alongside the beef skewers, grill the prepared vegetables. Start with the eggplant slices, as they take longer to cook through, followed by the bell peppers, finishing with the tomatoes. Aim to achieve a charred, smoky finish on the exterior while keeping the inside tender. This process will take about 10 minutes for each set of vegetables.

How to Enjoy Khorovats Kushkash

Serve Khorovats Kushkash fresh off the grill. Arrange the beef skewers on a large platter surrounded by the grilled vegetables. Garnish generously with chopped parsley to add color and freshness. Pair the dish with traditional Armenian flatbread for an authentic experience. The dynamic flavors of the grilled beef with the robust, earthy taste of the spiced vegetables are best appreciated when complemented by a simple side salad or dips such as hummus or baba ganoush.

Relish the time you spend making and sharing this meal, embracing the essence of Armenian communal spirit and culinary traditions.