Azerbaijani cuisine is a vibrant and has been influenced of the Silk Road, Persian flavors, and rich, regional traditions. This unique culinary style blends fragrant spices, fresh herbs, and quality ingredients to create a diverse range of dishes. In this blog, we will be sharing the must try dishes that showcase the flavors, textures, and customs of Azerbaijani cuisine.

1. Plov

Plov, or pilaf, is more than just a meal in Azerbaijan; it’s a national treasure often served at special gatherings, weddings, and celebrations. This dish, made from saffron-infused rice, is layered with fried onions, chestnuts, dried fruits, and lamb. The rice absorbs the flavors of the ingredients, creating a rich and aromatic experience. Plov is often served with yogurt or salad, making it a well-rounded, satisfying dish that’s a staple of Azerbaijani culture.

2. Dolma

Dolma, which translates to “stuffed,” is a beloved dish throughout the region. In Azerbaijan, dolma comes in several varieties, but the most popular type is grape leaf dolma. Minced meat, rice, herbs, and spices are rolled into grape leaves, creating bite-sized parcels that are both flavorful and tender. Sometimes, Azerbaijani dolma is made with vegetables like eggplants, tomatoes, or peppers, adding even more variety to this traditional dish. A dollop of garlicky yogurt is often served alongside for extra flavor.

3. Lavangi

Lavangi is a traditional dish from the southern region of Lankaran and is a testament to Azerbaijani ingenuity. This dish consists of chicken or fish stuffed with a paste made from walnuts, onions, and aromatic herbs. The stuffing, with its rich, earthy taste, complements the meat perfectly, creating a harmonious balance. Lavangi is baked until golden and crispy, often enjoyed with a side of fresh vegetables or herb salad.

4. Dushbara

Dushbara, often called Azerbaijani dumpling soup, is a comforting dish that combines tiny dumplings filled with minced meat in a flavorful broth. Each dumpling is small enough to be eaten in one bite, making dushbara both a time-consuming and cherished dish. Served with a touch of vinegar or garlic sauce, this soup is perfect for colder days or when you crave something hearty and warming.

5. Piti

Originating in the ancient city of Sheki, piti is a slow-cooked lamb and chickpea stew prepared in individual clay pots. The unique cooking method gives the dish a rich and smoky flavor. The stew is typically flavored with saffron, chestnuts, and potatoes, and it’s served with bread to soak up the delicious broth. Traditionally, the broth is enjoyed first, followed by the tender lamb and chickpeas, creating a layered, comforting meal.

6. Gutab (Pancakes)

Gutab is a thin, pancake-like dough stuffed with fillings that can range from minced meat and herbs to cheese or pumpkin. These savory turnovers are folded and cooked on a griddle until crispy. Gutab is often served with yogurt or sumac, a tangy Middle Eastern spice, which enhances its flavor. Quick to make and easy to enjoy, gutab is a popular street food and appetizer in Azerbaijani cuisine.

7. Badimjan Dolmasi, (Stuffed Eggplant)

Eggplants, or “badimjan,” are a favorite ingredient in Azerbaijani cooking, and badimjan dolmasi is one of the most delicious ways to enjoy them. Eggplants are hollowed out, stuffed with a savory mixture of minced meat, rice, and herbs, and then baked until tender. The result is a hearty, flavorful dish that showcases the natural sweetness of the eggplant while highlighting the spices and herbs in the filling.

8. Kebabs

Azerbaijani kebabs, or shashlik, are pieces of marinated meat (often lamb or chicken) skewered and grilled over charcoal. The meat is typically marinated with onions, spices, and sometimes yogurt, which tenderizes the meat and adds a tangy depth of flavor. Served with fresh herbs, grilled vegetables, and flatbread, kebabs are a popular choice for gatherings and family feasts in Azerbaijan.

9. Shekerbura, Sweet pastry

Shekerbura is a crescent-shaped pastry filled with a sweet mixture of ground nuts, sugar, and cardamom. This delicacy is especially popular during Nowruz, the Persian New Year, and represents the crescent moon. Each shekerbura is carefully decorated with intricate designs, a sign of the pride and skill that goes into its preparation. This pastry is sweet, nutty, and perfect with a cup of Azerbaijani tea.

10. Bakhlava

Azerbaijani pakhlava, or baklava, is a dessert made from layers of thin dough filled with ground nuts and soaked in a syrup of honey or sugar. What sets Azerbaijani pakhlava apart is its diamond shape and the use of spices like cardamom, which gives it a unique and fragrant flavor. Pakhlava is another essential treat during Nowruz and other celebrations, symbolizing wealth and prosperity.

Azerbaijani cuisine is a feast for the senses, combining aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and a variety of textures and flavors. Each dish, from the hearty plov to the sweet shekerbura, offers a glimpse into Azerbaijan’s rich cultural heritage. These dishes not only nourish but also celebrate the warmth, hospitality, and creativity that define Azerbaijani culture. Whether you’re visiting Azerbaijan or trying these recipes at home, diving into this cuisine is an unforgettable culinary experience.