A Pumpkin Full of Surprises: Discovering Ghapama

Armenian food is known for being super tasty, full of flavor, and made with love. Many dishes are passed down from grandparents to grandchildren and are often shared during special events or family dinners. Let’s explore two of Armenia’s most famous (and delicious!) meals that kids and adults both enjoy.

Khorovats: Armenian Barbecue with a Twist

One of Armenia’s favorite foods is Khorovats, which is a kind of barbecue. But don’t expect it to taste like any other barbecue you’ve had before—this one is extra special!

Making Khorovats is a tradition. The meat (it can be pork, beef, lamb, or chicken) is seasoned the day before and carefully placed on metal skewers. Then, it’s grilled over an open fire in a special cooking tool called a manghal.

In Armenian families, it’s often the men who take on the role of preparing Khorovats during big gatherings and holidays. The smell is amazing, and the taste is unforgettable. Anyone who visits Armenia is almost sure to try this dish at least once—and probably fall in love with it!

Ghapama: A Pumpkin Full of Surprises

Here’s a fun food with a fun name: Ghapama! This dish is so loved in Armenia that there’s even a song about it. Ghapama is made using a pumpkin that’s hollowed out and filled with delicious things like rice, nuts, honey, and dried fruits. After stuffing the pumpkin, it’s baked in the oven until soft and sweet.

When it’s ready, the whole pumpkin is brought to the table. Slicing it open is like opening a treasure chest full of yummy surprises! Ghapama is usually served at holiday dinners and celebrations, and kids especially love its sweet taste and colorful filling.

Learn More About Armenian Culture with Dinolingo

Want to learn more about Armenian food, language, and culture? Dinolingo is a great way for kids aged 2 to 14 to discover Armenian through interactive videos, songs, games, and printable worksheets. Kids learn about traditional foods, holidays, stories, and more—all while picking up new words in a fun and playful way. Dinolingo is available on web, iOS, and Android, and includes tools for parents to track progress and plan offline activities too.

Conclusion

From smoky Khorovats to sweet and colorful Ghapama, Armenian food is full of flavor and tradition. These dishes bring families together and make every meal feel like a celebration. So next time you hear the word “Ghapama,” remember—it’s not just a food, it’s a party inside a pumpkin!