While the Kish Albanian Church itself, an ancient historical monument dating back to the 1st century, is not known for a food history, the region of Sheki where it is located boasts a rich culinary tradition. Sheki is famous for its sweet dishes, particularly Sheki halva, and the multicultural environment brought about by the Silk Road has heavily influenced its cuisine. The area is known for having an exceptional variety of foods, incorporating fresh produce from the fertile lands and a blend of flavors from neighboring cultures.
1. Sheki Halva (Vegetarian): A sweet confection made with rice flour, nuts, saffron, and sugar, often served in a form of layers.
2. Piti (Non-Veg): A hearty meat stew traditionally cooked in individual pots, made with mutton, chickpeas, vegetables, and spices.
3. Lavangi (Non-Veg): Chicken or fish stuffed with a tangy walnut and pomegranate filling, this dish from the Talysh region transcends simple categorization.
4. Gutab (Vegetarian Options Available): A thin pastry filled with various ingredients such as greens, pumpkin, or cheese.
5. Kurze (Non-Veg): Traditional dumplings filled with minced meat, onions, and herbs, similar to Russian pelmeni or Italian ravioli.
6. Dolma (Vegetarian Options Available): Grape leaves or vegetables stuffed with a mixture of rice and sometimes meat, seasoned with aromatic herbs.
7. Tendir Bread (Vegetarian): A flatbread baked in a clay oven, called tandir, which gives it a distinctive taste and texture.
8. Badambura (Vegetarian): A pastry filled with ground nuts and sugary syrup, similar to a less syrupy baklava.
9. Shekerbura (Vegetarian): A traditional sweet pastry filled with ground almonds or hazelnuts, sugar, and spice.
10. Dovgha (Vegetarian): A yogurt-based soup mixed with herbs and sometimes rice, it is both refreshing and light.