Tasting Baku: Forgotten recipes and fresh flavors

By Azernews

By Laman Ismayilova

Azerbaijan’s dolma, pilaf, gutab, kabab or tandir have already gained worldwide fame for being very tasty. But have you heard about such traditional dishes as "Halim Ashi" —pilaf cooked with a variety of cereals instead of rise or "Zengi Chorek" ginger – bread?

Bakuvians and guests of the city were able to taste all these traditional dishes in the historical core of the city, Icherisheher, on September 1-3.

The main goal of the festival "Forgotten Recipes" was to create a festive atmosphere in the historical part of the city, celebrate the holy "Sacrifice Feast" (Eid al-Adha) with the residents and guests of the capital and increase interest in Azerbaijani cuisine.

The idea of the project belongs to the Scientific and Cultural Center and the Museum of History under the Administration of the Icherisheher State Historical-Architectural Reserve.

Unique recipes were discovered by the employees of the History Museum and the Scientific and Cultural Center. They found ancient recipes dating back to the 30's-40's of the 20th century.

Reportedly these recipes sank into oblivion because of the complexity of cooking.The best chefs of Icherisheher for three days cooked for guests of the festival and shared secret recipes.

More than ten forgotten dishes were presented to the visitors.

One of the forgotten recipes was Musiabya pilaf, where rice is used and sausages from meat and eggplant are added. The soup Mecca also turned out to be one of the popular dishes at the festival. It is very easy to cook: fry onion rings, add chicken pieces, finely chopped potatoes, pour water and set to cook.  After that add the corn and rice. A few minutes before the end of cooking, add saffron.

The festival also delighted little guests. The Center of Traditional Arts Icherisheher organized children face art and master classes.