What are the benefits of dzavar and what dishes are prepared from this cereal

Dzavar is a special mountain wheat, the pearl of the national cuisine of Armenia. It is rich in B vitamins and fiber, gives a feeling of satiety for a long time. More about the benefits of cereals and what dishes are prepared from it, sb.by told the consultant on a healthy lifestyle Svetlana Sinichenko.

The expert told about the composition and useful properties of cereals:

- Dzavar is often called the treasure of Armenia. This is a special type of mountain wheat, the grains of which are harvested young, slightly boiled, cleaned from the shell and dried. This cereal contains almost the entire complex of B vitamins, with the exception of B12. That is why dzavar is so appreciated for its contribution to the stable functioning of the nervous system. B vitamins help us cope with everyday loads and maintain a good mood. In addition, dzavar is easy to fill, but at the same time it takes quite a long time to turn into glucose, which makes it an excellent choice for those who monitor blood sugar levels or just want to stay full for a long time. This cereal is also rich in fiber, which has a beneficial effect on digestion.

The most famous dish of dzavar is arisa, the expert noted:

- In fact, this is a thick and very rich porridge, which is prepared from dzavar and chicken. The chicken is boiled whole, then the meat is separated from the bones, mixed with the cereal and long tormented, constantly stirring until the mass becomes uniform and viscous.

Another traditional meal - saved, continued Svetlana Sinichenko:

- It is a soup based on matsun (a dairy product similar to yogurt) to which boiled zavar is added. The secret of cooking is to gently mix the matsun with water and eggs, and then add cereal and cook, stirring constantly so that the soup does not curl up. The greens are added at the end. It turns out simultaneously refreshing and nutritious soup with a pleasant sourness.

According to the consultant, in modern cuisine, dzavar is actively used to prepare risotto:

- Since the cereal holds its shape well and gives a creamy texture, it is ideal for the role of arborio rice. Risotto recipes with mushrooms and cream are popular, where zavar is first boiled until ready, and then stewed with roasted mushrooms, onions and spices. There are also options with pumpkin, lentils and dried tomatoes. This is a great way to diversify the usual menu and try familiar dishes in a new version.

In addition, dzavar can be cooked crumbly porridge on water or broth, the expert added:

- To do this, the cereal is pre-soaked for an hour, and then boiled over a slow heat for about an hour and a half. Such porridge will be a wonderful side dish or an independent dish in the post. Also, dzavar is added to soups with beans or tomato base - it gives them satiety and density. What are the benefits of dried barberry and how to use it in cooking