Kate Leahy (MSJ06)

In “Lavash: The bread that launched 1,000 meals, plus salads, stews, and other recipes from Armenia,” Leahy teamed up with co-authors John Lee, a photojournalist, and Ara Zada, an Armenian-American chef, for a cookbook about the food of Armenia.

On their travels throughout this small country in the Caucasus, the trio not only met master lavash makers (who are always women) but also witnessed a political revolution that is currently reshaping Armenia’s future. In Lavash, readers learn how to make the country’s beloved UNESCO-recognized flatbread and discover the many dishes it enhances, from brothy soups and hearty salads to grilled meats, vegetables, and sweets. Meanwhile, location photography in Armenia and stories about the terrain provide glimpses into the country of Armenia itself. At its core, Lavash is a celebration of a simple bread eaten with simple food, a true reflection of this resilient, beautiful country.