Jingalov Hats with Spring Greens

Looking back at my childhood in Ukraine, I realize how fortunate I was to have been exposed to such a diverse and vibrant array of culinary cultures, from the exotic flavors of Uzbekistan to the lively dishes of Armenia. In retrospect, my connection to these foreign cultures was perhaps the only positive aspect of growing up in the newly emerged country, fresh from the USSR’s collapse. Like many families in post-Soviet Ukraine, my parents could not afford to travel abroad, so instead, we explored the world through the dishes we made together in our little kitchen.

My mother was always eager to try new dishes and experiment with different flavors. She often asked people for their recipes, especially if it was for a cuisine she had not yet tasted. Remarkably, little has changed since then; my mom still has an insatiable appetite for exciting food. Therefore, it’s no surprise that I became an adventurous eater from a very young age, never refusing to try new dishes from various culinary destinations. So when my mom discovered jingalov hats, a traditional Armenian flatbread bursting with fresh spring greens and herbs, it was a joyful moment for little me. One of my mom’s Armenian friends prepared it for us, and I was instantly hooked. The combination of flavors in jingalov hats was unlike anything I had tasted before. Every bite of that savory flatbread was stuffed to the brim with a mouthwatering medley of fragrant herbs, like parsley, cilantro, dill and scallions.  With the first bite, I was transported to an herb-filled wonderland that made me feel like I was dancing in a meadow.

Now that I live in the United States, making jingalov hats has become a way for me to reconnect with my childhood culinary memories and share my love for this splendid dish with others. Traditionally, this flatbread is made with just the herbs and greens, but I like adding a handful of briny feta cheese for extra oomph. This feta-loaded version of jingalov hats has become a staple in my kitchen, and whenever I serve it to my friends and family, I am met with appreciation and awe. It’s a dish that has the power to transport you to a different time and place, a dish that reminds you of the importance of tradition and the beauty of simplicity. Every time I make it, I am filled with a sense of pride and joy. It’s a beautiful representation of Armenian cuisine and food's power to unite people.

[tasty-recipe id="10266"]