“Our potlucks are a testament to what the Primary Care Coalition brings to the table, literally and figuratively,” said Stephanie Narayanan, PCC’s director of development and external relations. “We take a wide variety of dishes from around the world and create one fabulous meal. The rich diversity of thought, skills, experience, and talent that goes into these potluck meals also fuels our work to ensure that all of our neighbors have access to quality healthcare.”
Nearly 40 employees participated in last month’s potluck, held on April 17. They shared a spread that included Armenian lavash (bread) with Korean carrot salad, sushi, spring rolls, kabobs, turkey and veggie pinwheels, and Middle Eastern salad. Among the desserts were cream cheese and guava pastries and flourless chocolate cake.
Staff considered their thoughts on PCC’s next strategic planning process as they munched on crowdsourced favorites, bringing all the experiences reflected in those food choices to their mission focus.
Among them, an Armenian dish that reflects both ancient heritage and modern geopolitical influences, courtesy of Development Manager Kristine Gallagher Sargsyan, as translated and adapted from multiple Armenian recipe sites.
Armenian Lavash Wraps with Korean Carrot Salad –
Armenian lavash is a unique type of flatbread with deep cultural and historical roots going back for many centuries in Armenian history. In 2014, UNESCO recognized Lavash as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, highlighting the importance and unique role in Armenian culture, it is a symbol of hospitality and community. It is often shared during meals and special occasions, emphasizing the importance of togetherness.
These wraps make a refreshing and healthy meal, combining the spicy and tangy flavors of Korean carrot salad with the versatility of Armenian lavash bread.
Ingredients:
- Lavash bread (2 large sheets) (you can buy this in international markets/nearby Russian or Armenian stores)
- Mayonnaise
- Chopped Cilantro
- Korean Carrot Salad (you can buy this in international markets/nearby Russian or Armenian stores) or prepare at home:
- 2 cups of shredded carrots
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon Korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru) or regular red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
Steps:
1. Prepare the Korean Carrot Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded carrots and minced garlic.
- In a small pan, heat the vegetable oil and sesame oil over medium heat. Once hot, pour the oil over the carrots and garlic.
- Add the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, salt, and red pepper flakes to the carrot mixture. Mix well.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds.
- Toss everything together until well combined. Let the salad sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Assemble the Lavash Wraps:
- Lay out a sheet of lavash bread on a clean surface.
- Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise over the lavash, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Add a generous amount of the Korean carrot salad and cilantro on top
- If using, add your choice of protein (turkey, chicken etc).
- Roll the lavash tightly to form a wrap. You can secure it with toothpicks if needed.
- Slice the wraps in half diagonally and serve.