Khash (dish)

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Khash (Armenian: Խաշ) is a traditional Armenian dish, originating in the Shirak region. Formerly a nutritious winter food for the rural poor, it is now considered a delicacy, and is enjoyed as a festive winter meal, usually by a company of men. Modern day convention dictates that it should be consumed during the month that has an 'r' in its name, thus excluding May, June, July, and August (month names in Armenian are derivatives of the Latin names). A similar food is called piti in the vicinity of Kars Province, although piti is also made from feet of other cattle, primarily sheep. Khash remains a purist meal with great parsimony in ingredients.

The main ingredient in khash is cow's feet, although other cow parts, such as the head and stomach (tripe) may also be used. The feet (known in Armenian as totikner) are depilated, cleaned, and boiled in water all night long, until the water has become a thick broth and the meat has separated from the bones. No salt or spices are added during the boiling process. The dish is served hot. One may add salt, garlic, lemon juice, or vinegar according to one's tastes. Dried lavash is often crumbled into the both to add substance. Khash is generally served with a variety of other foods, such as hot green and yellow peppers, pickles, radishes, cheese, and fresh herbs. The meal is almost always accompanied by Vodka (preferably mulberry vodka) and mineral water.

There is much ritual involved in khash parties. Many participants abstain from eating the previous evening, and insist upon using only their hands to consume the unusual (and often unwieldy) meal. Because of the potency and strong smell of the meal, and because it is so often enjoyed in conjunction with alcohol, khash is usually eaten on the weekend or on holidays.

Khash is also widely lauded for its healing qualities. The ingredients include various joints of the cow's legs and feet, rich in cartilage and other connective tissues. It is widely believed that regular consumption of khash helps heal joint injuries and can even help alleviate or slow down the progress of arthritis. Anecdotal evidence of the medicinal qualities of khash abounds.