How To Make Armenian Ghapama (ՂԱԲԱՄԱ)

dried fruits

🥗Healthier: fresh fruits

💰Cheaper: raisins

Fresh fruits add natural sweetness without added sugar.

honey

🥗Healthier: maple syrup

💰Cheaper: agave syrup

Maple syrup is a natural sweetener with a unique flavor.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil provides healthy fats and is plant-based.

nuts

🥗Healthier: seeds

💰Cheaper: peanuts

Seeds are often more affordable and nut-free.

Take the lid off the pumpkin and create a star shape opening.

Push the lid out carefully and save it for later.

Empty the insides of the pumpkin using a metal spoon, ensuring not to break the walls.

Boil 6 cups of water in a small pot.

Wash 2 cups of jasmine rice to remove excess starch and soak until water boils.

Core and peel 3 Granny Smith apples, then dice them and place in a bowl.

Add 1/4 cup of sultanas to the bowl with the apples.

Slice dried apricots in half and add to the bowl.

Once the water is boiling, add the rice and cook until al dente, about 10 minutes.

Strain the rice and rinse with cold water.

In a bowl, add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1 teaspoon of salt.

Add 1/4 cup of honey and 150 g of melted butter to the bowl.

Mix in the cooked rice until evenly combined.

Preheat the oven to 170°C (about 340°F).

Pour the rice mixture into the pumpkin, filling it without overflowing.

Place the lid back on the pumpkin and line a baking tray with baking paper.

Put the pumpkin in the center of the baking tray and into the oven.

Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, checking that the sides are tender before removing.

Once cooked, place the pumpkin on a plate and remove the lid.

Slice down the ridges of the pumpkin to serve.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens