Armenian Cooking with Shake Balekjian -- Choreg

butter

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil provides a dairy-free option with similar texture.

milk

🥗Healthier: almond milk

💰Cheaper: water

Almond milk reduces calories and is lactose-free.

sugar

🥗Healthier: honey

💰Cheaper: brown sugar

Honey adds natural sweetness with a unique flavor.

eggs

🥗Healthier: flaxseed meal

💰Cheaper: aquafaba

Flaxseed meal acts as a binding agent in vegan recipes.

Activate yeast in warm milk with sugar until frothy, about 5-10 minutes.

Mix flour, salt, mahlab, and cardamom in a large bowl.

Add melted butter and eggs to the flour mixture; combine well.

Pour in the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms.

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled, about 1 hour.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Punch down the risen dough and divide into equal pieces.

Shape each piece into a braid or roll as desired.

Place shaped dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Let cool on a wire rack before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens