Cook This: 3 recipes from Green Mountains, including two Armenian summertime salads

Caroline Eden’s latest cookbook, “Green Mountains,” is the final installment of her “colour trilogy” that takes readers on a culinary journey through Armenia and Georgia. In this book, she intertwines stories of her walks in the Caucasus with recipes inspired by the people and places she encountered along the way.

Eden’s approach to the trilogy was to create “edible postcards,” allowing readers to not only see and read about her adventures but also taste them through her recipes. The cookbook is a unique blend of travelogue and cookbook, offering a three-dimensional experience for those who want to delve into the culture and cuisine of the Caucasus region.

As a seasoned traveler and walker, Eden emphasizes the importance of slowing down and immersing oneself in the landscapes and flavors of a place. She draws parallels between walking and cooking, noting that both activities require focus, attention to detail, and a connection to the environment.

One of the highlights of “Green Mountains” is the collection of recipes that Eden has included. From two Armenian summertime salads to lamb with plums, green beans, and cinnamon, to Gurian khachapuri, each dish reflects the vibrant and diverse culinary traditions of the region.

The Armenian summertime salads are a celebration of the local produce and flavors, with ingredients like citrus, walnuts, grapes, and tarragon coming together in refreshing and vibrant dishes. The lamb with plums is a hearty and comforting meal-in-one that showcases the use of fruit in savory dishes, ideal for summer produce.

The Gurian khachapuri, a Georgian cheese-filled bread, is a rustic and delicious dish that can be enjoyed warm for breakfast or brunch. Made with a flavorful filling of cheeses, spring onions, and a hard-boiled egg, this dish is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of the region.

Overall, “Green Mountains” is a testament to the beauty and richness of the Caucasus region, both in terms of its landscapes and its culinary traditions. Through her writing and recipes, Caroline Eden invites readers to embark on a sensory journey through Armenia and Georgia, exploring the flavors, aromas, and stories that make this region unique.