Khorovats Recipe – Armenia's Savory Street Food

Name: Khorovats
Prep time: 7 h 22 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 7 h 33 min
Yield: 4-6 servings
Cuisine: Armenia
Ingredients: beef cut into inch cubes; black pepper; cloves garlic; cumin; dried oregano; lemon juice; lemon wedges for serving; onion; paprika; parsley for garnish; pork shoulder; red pepper flakes; red wine vinegar; salt; vegetable oil

Khorovats is a beloved Armenian dish consisting of marinated and grilled meat, typically enjoyed during festive gatherings and family barbecues. This flavorful street food reflects the rich culinary traditions of Armenia, often served with fresh vegetables and lavash. It's a staple at picnics and celebrations, showcasing the communal spirit of Armenian dining.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~450 kcal / serving

Ingredients

2 lbs pork shoulder or beef, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, vegetable oil, red wine vinegar, fresh lemon juice, paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, ground black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well to create the marinade.

Marinate the Meat

Add the cubed pork shoulder or beef to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using charcoal, allow the coals to burn until they are covered with white ash.

Skewer the Meat

Thread the marinated meat onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking. If using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before use to prevent burning.

Grill the Meat

Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is cooked through and has a nice char on the outside.

Serve

Remove the khorovats from the grill and transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Khorovats?

Khorovats is a traditional Armenian dish made from marinated meat, usually grilled on skewers. It is known for its rich flavors and is often served at social gatherings.

Where does Khorovats come from?

Khorovats originates from Armenia and is deeply rooted in its culinary culture, symbolizing hospitality and communal dining.

What are the main ingredients in Khorovats?

Key ingredients include pork shoulder or beef, onion, garlic, vegetable oil, red wine vinegar, and spices like paprika and cumin.

How long does Khorovats take to make?

Khorovats takes a total time of 150-757 minutes to prepare and cook.

What do you serve with Khorovats?

Khorovats is often served with fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or wrapped in lavash bread.

Khorovats