Choreg Armenian Sweet Pastry

Choreg Armenian Sweet Pastry Recipe | Authentic Recipe from Armenia

Region / culture: Armenia | Preparation time: 2 hours | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Choreg is a traditional Armenian sweet pastry that is enjoyed during holidays and special occasions. This delicious pastry is slightly sweet, soft, and perfect for breakfast or as a snack with a cup of tea or coffee.

History

Choreg has been a staple in Armenian cuisine for generations, with each family having their own unique recipe. It is often made during Easter and other celebrations, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune.

Ingredients

7 cups flour
3 tsp salt
1 tsp mahleb spice
1 and 0.25 cups milk
0.5 cup unsalted butter
0.25 cup vegetable shortening
1 cup sugar
2 packages rapid-rise yeast
0.5 cup warm water
4 large eggs
sesame seeds for garnish

How to prepare

In a large bowl, stir together the flour, salt, and mahleb.
In a medium saucepan, heat the milk until hot.
Add the butter, shortening, and sugar, and stir until the sugar is dissolved.
Remove from heat and set aside.
Dissolve the yeast in 0.5 cup of warm water.
Add a bit of sugar to activate the yeast. The mixture should become foamy.
Make a well in the center of the flour.
Add the eggs and the milk mixture to the flour. Pour in the activated yeast. Stir to blend well.
Turn out the dough on a lightly floured surface and knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.
The dough should be slightly sticky, not dry.
Place the dough in a large greased bowl.
Pat the top of the dough with a bit of oil to prevent sticking to aluminum foil.
Cover the bowl with foil and then a dish towel.
Let the dough rise in a warm place for 2 hours.
Break off a small amount of dough and shape it into pretzels or braids.
Put the rolls on a baking sheet and allow them to rise for 30 minutes.
Brush with an egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
Bake in a 350-degree oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Variations

Add chopped nuts or dried fruits to the dough for added texture and flavor.
Substitute the mahleb spice with cinnamon or cardamom for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to activate the yeast properly to ensure that the dough rises correctly.

- Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic to create a soft and fluffy pastry.

- Allow the dough to rise in a warm place to help it double in size.

- Brushing the pastry with an egg wash before baking will give it a beautiful golden color.

Serving Suggestions

Choreg is best enjoyed warm with a cup of Armenian coffee or tea.

Cooking Techniques

Kneading the dough until smooth and elastic is key to creating a soft and fluffy pastry.

- Allowing the dough to rise in a warm place will help it double in size before baking.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use margarine instead of butter for a dairy-free version of Choreg.

- Vegetable oil can be used instead of vegetable shortening.

Make Ahead Tips

Choreg can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Choreg on a decorative platter with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Choreg pairs well with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a dollop of whipped cream for a delicious dessert.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Choreg in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Choreg contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Choreg contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Choreg contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Choreg contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Choreg is a good source of iron, calcium, and vitamin B6.

Alergens

Choreg contains gluten, dairy, and eggs.

Summary

Choreg is a delicious pastry that is moderately high in carbohydrates and fats, making it a satisfying treat for special occasions.

Summary

Choreg is a delightful Armenian sweet pastry that is perfect for holidays and special occasions. With its soft and slightly sweet flavor, it is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy this delicious pastry with a cup of tea or coffee for a truly delightful treat.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of wonder. It was given to me by a kind Armenian woman I met at the market. She had a twinkle in her eye and a warm smile as she handed me the paper with the neatly written instructions.

I had always been fascinated by different cultures and their cuisines, so I eagerly accepted the recipe and promised to give it a try. As I read through the list of ingredients and steps, I could almost smell the sweet aroma of the pastry baking in the oven.

I had never made Armenian food before, but I was excited to learn something new. I carefully followed the directions, mixing the flour, sugar, yeast, and milk together to create a soft dough. I kneaded it until it was smooth and elastic, then let it rise until it doubled in size.

While the dough was rising, I worked on the filling – a delicious mixture of sugar, butter, cinnamon, and chopped nuts. The sweet scent of cinnamon filled my kitchen as I spread the filling over the rolled-out dough.

I carefully rolled the dough into a log and then shaped it into a coil, placing it on a baking sheet to rise once more. As I brushed the top with an egg wash, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride at how beautiful it looked.

I placed the pastry in the oven and waited anxiously for it to bake. The sweet smell filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. When I finally pulled it out of the oven, it was golden brown and perfectly puffed.

I couldn't wait to taste it. I cut a slice and took a bite, savoring the delicate sweetness and the crunch of the nuts. It was absolutely delicious – a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

From that moment on, Choreg became a staple in my baking repertoire. I made it for special occasions, family gatherings, and just because. Each time I made it, I thought of the kind Armenian woman who had shared the recipe with me and felt grateful for the opportunity to learn something new.

Over the years, I have made some tweaks to the recipe, adding my own personal touch here and there. Sometimes I add a bit of orange zest for a citrusy kick, or I swap out the walnuts for almonds. But no matter how I modify it, Choreg remains a beloved favorite in my family.

I have shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, passing on the tradition of making this delicious pastry. It brings me joy to see others enjoy it as much as I do, and I love hearing their stories of how they first discovered it.

As I grow older, I realize the importance of preserving these culinary traditions and passing them down to future generations. Recipes like Choreg are not just about food – they are about memories, connections, and the shared joy of breaking bread together.

So the next time you are at the market and happen to meet a kind stranger who offers you a recipe, don't hesitate to accept it. You never know what wonders it may bring into your life.