The Ghapama
The ghapama has traditionally been made by Armenian families during holidays to celebrate a good harvest and a successful year.
In our family, we usually prepare it around Thanksgiving and enjoy it with friends and family.
You may serve is as a main dish by adding a protein or simply as a side.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium pumpkin
- 2 cups of rice
- 1/2 cup dry fruits
- 1/2 cup mixed nuts
- maple syrup
- vegan butter
- boiling water
- pinch of salt
Instructions
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Wash the exterior of your pumpkin and cut off the top in shape a lid.
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Scrape out all the seeds and interior strings of the pumpkin.
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Depending on the size of your pumpkin, cook enough rice to fill the interior. For a medium size pumpkin, two cups of rice should be enough.
- Chop dried fruits and nuts.
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In a bowl, mix the rice, chopped, dried fruits and nuts, and add a pinch of salt.
- Coat the interior of the pumpkin with vegan butter.
- Stuff the filling in the pumpkin and add ¼ cup of boiling water over the top.
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Place the lid of the pumpkin and place it on a tray in the oven.
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Bake at 375°F for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until soft. It should be very soft when pierced with a knife.
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Cut into wedges and serve.