Summer Cheese Series: 🇦🇲 Armenian Cheese Tasting with Mary Basmadjian
Featuring: Smoked Cheeses, Herbs, Humor, and Lavash Rolls You'll Want to Steal from Your Grandma's Kitchen
When it comes to cheese, the Armenian table doesn't hold back. In this flavorful episode of the Charqute Cheese Series, we teamed up with Armenian-American comedian Mary Basmadjian to taste and wrap (literally!) our way through a thoughtfully curated selection of traditional Armenian cheeses — each paired with fresh herbs and the one and only: lavash.
And yes… there were laughs, string cheese moments, and one very bold herb that tried to steal the show.
🧀 Why Armenian Cheeses Deserve the Spotlight
Armenian cheese is more than just food — it's family, memory, and tradition. Most of these cheeses are brined, hand-pulled, or aged in centuries-old methods that reflect the beautiful complexity of Armenian culture. Paired with herbs straight from the backyard garden and lavash (the iconic flatbread that practically deserves its own fan club), each bite tells a story.
🌿 The Pairings: Cheese, Lavash & Fresh Herbs
We kept it simple, wrapping each cheese in lavash with one carefully chosen herb. Here's what made the final plate:
1. Smoked Sulguni + Cilantro
Smoky, slightly squeaky, and full of personality—this cheese is bold. The cilantro adds a zesty lift that cuts through the richness. It's a picnic in Yerevan waiting to happen.
2. Tel Panir (String Cheese) + Parsley
A braided classic, this mildly salty cheese is a staple at Armenian breakfast tables. Wrapped in lavash with parsley, it becomes a fresh and nostalgic bite that hits all the right notes.
3. Chanakh with Pepper + Tarragon
Crumbly, spicy, and not afraid to be the center of attention—this cheese packs heat. Tarragon brings a distinct aromatic edge that keeps you coming back for more.
4. Lori Cheese + Fresh Savory
Creamy yet firm, Lori is one of Armenia's best-kept secrets. Paired with fresh savory, it transforms into a peppery, elevated pairing that's as elegant as it is homey.
5. Ghugyi Panir (Village Cheese) + Purple Basil
Rustic, a little salty, and full of countryside charm. Purple basil adds a sweet and clove-like aroma that turns this pairing into a fragrant, flavorful experience.
⭐ Honorable Mention: Labneh
Labneh may not be a cheese in the strictest sense, but we couldn't leave it out. Spread it thick on lavash, optionally sprinkle with dill, and you've got the tangy, creamy snack dreams are made of.
👯♀️ Why This Episode Was So Special
Mary Basmadjian brought more than just her sharp wit — she brought her cultural pride, real-time reactions, and hilarious commentary that made this tasting feel like Sunday brunch with your funniest aunt. Watching her experience each cheese was like watching Armenia itself unwrap in flavor, laughter, and honest-to-goodness joy.
📸 What You'll See in the Episode
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Rolling and wrapping each cheese-herb combo in lavash
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Mary's one-liners you'll want to turn into T-shirts
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A cheese table setup worthy of your next gathering
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And the best part? Genuine reactions from someone who grew up with these flavors
Frequently Asked Questions About Armenian Cheese
What is Armenian cheese?
Armenian cheese refers to traditional cheeses from Armenia, often brined, hand-pulled, or aged using centuries-old methods. Popular varieties include Sulguni (smoked or fresh), Tel Panir (string cheese), Lori, Chanakh, and Ghugyi Panir (village cheese). These cheeses are typically enjoyed with lavash (flatbread) and fresh herbs.
Where can I buy Armenian cheese?
You can find Armenian cheese at local Armenian markets, Middle Eastern grocery stores, or specialty cheese shops. Many varieties are also available online through specialty food retailers. Look for brands that import directly from Armenia or produce authentic styles locally.
What is lavash and how do you eat it with cheese?
Lavash is a thin, soft Armenian flatbread that's perfect for wrapping cheese and herbs. To enjoy it the traditional way, tear off a piece of lavash, add your cheese and fresh herbs (like cilantro, parsley, or basil), roll it up, and eat. It's a simple, delicious combination that's been enjoyed for generations.
What herbs pair best with Armenian cheese?
Fresh herbs are essential to Armenian cheese pairings. Try cilantro with smoked cheeses, parsley with string cheese, tarragon with spicy varieties, fresh savory with creamy cheeses, and purple basil with rustic village cheeses. The herbs add brightness and complement the salty, rich flavors of the cheese.
Can I use Armenian cheese on a charcuterie board?
Absolutely! Armenian cheeses add unique flavors and cultural depth to any charcuterie board. Include a variety like smoked Sulguni, Tel Panir, and Lori cheese alongside lavash, fresh herbs, olives, and dried fruits for an Armenian-inspired grazing experience.
Who is Mary Basmadjian?
Mary Basmadjian is an Armenian-American comedian known for her sharp wit and cultural commentary. In this episode, she brings humor, authenticity, and genuine reactions to the Armenian cheese tasting, making it feel like a fun gathering with family. Follow her on Instagram @marybasmadjian for more laughs and cultural insights.
📋 Final Thoughts
Whether you're Armenian, Armenian-adjacent, or just cheese-curious — this episode is a flavorful reminder that tradition doesn't have to be stiff. It can be funny, fresh, and incredibly delicious. Grab some lavash, visit your local Armenian market, and start creating your own pairings at home.
Ready to bring Armenian-inspired flavors to your next gathering? Shop our Charcuterie Boards collection and create your own cultural cheese experience.
A huge thank you to Mary Basmadjian for bringing the laughs and the love to this tasting. Follow her for more comedy and cultural content!
Because at Charqute, we don't just pair cheese—we pair stories.
