Ani Shamlyan: Smile is also a culture and a core requirement for hospitality

Ani Shamlyan has mastered the secrets of baking back in Aleppo. Her curious mind has always been in search of something new and ideal. She loves making a variety of desserts and treats for people to enjoy. When asked about the recipe, she readily provides the details.

 It is already four and a half years since Ani has moved to Armenia with her sister. Realizing that it was already past her to learn a completely new set of skills and change professions, she searched for jobs to maintain a living. The abundance of pastry booths on every corner of the city left her in despair as she thought it was pointless to pursue her passion in a diverse market such was in Yerevan. However, as she paid closer attention, she noticed the great difference between the local flavours and Eastern pastry and decided to start baking her own desserts.

By the way, we met Ani during the “Displaced women for decent work opportunities” exhibition-fair organized by UNHCR at the UN House in Yerevan on International Women’s Day. Ani is one of the beneficiaries who has benefited from the programs implemented by UNHCR. According to Anahit Hayrapetyan, UNHCR External Relations Associate, the programs aim to encourage and support Syrian women to find a place in the local market. In their turn, these women form a new culture in the Armenian reality by introducing delicious snacks, pastries and a new interpretation of handicraft to the general public. 

Through her constant participation at the exhibition-sales organized by UNHCR during the past two years, Ani was convinced that the local population enjoys her pastries made of various spices. In addition, Ani participated in training courses, organized by KASA Swiss Humanitarian Foundation, for Syrians in search of jobs. The courses covered culinary programs specially designed for Syrians, taking into account the local demand,followed by the culinary courses organized by Sedrak Mamulyan. Yet again, considering what she had learned was not quite enough, Ani decided to learn a few secrets of table decoration. As soon as she gained confidence in opening up her own business, she decided to introduce her knowledge of culinary arts in a unique and innovative way.

 “When I learn about or taste a new recipe I start thinking what spice I can add to better the taste from the previous but to not spoil its quality. I try to use spices or to replace an ingredient with another, to change the design, resulting in a completely new version. I do the same with table decorations as I add something new during the preparation process,” said Ani.

Ani has been responsible for pleasing the customers with her table decorations during events organized by several organizations. However, she mostly relates herself to the art of baking. Ani stresses that the key secret in the difference between local and Eastern pastry is the variety of spices; we need to preserve the culture of food, know where or how to use different spices, as the misuse can result in a completely different taste than the original.

Sharing another secret with us, Ani emphasized the importance of providing your products to people. “Simple and sincere smile wins every heart, and people taste your product with pleasure. This is also a culture and a core requirement in providing for people.” 

Ani doesn’t limit her knowledge. Back in Aleppo, and in Armenia as well, she explores international cuisines and prefers the rich Italian and French cuisine that are also subjected to her innovative approach and development. 

Source  in Armenian