In some ways, being a vegetarian in Azerbaijan sucks because many local recipes are use meat. Basically all the local meat dishes I’ve seen look delicious (and based on the fact that the non-meat stuff is, I’m assuming I’m right), and I cannot enjoy them. Not only am I missing out on good food, I’m also missing out on a cultural experience (though I have tried dolma once, for the sake of cultural participation, and I liked it a lot).
But where there is darkness there is also light: the vegetables in Azerbaijan are not only cheap but also fresh and tasty. Azerbaijan is known for the high quality of its produce, and not without cause. Really, they are very, very good. When Ambassador Morningstar came to my university (ASUE) he made note of the as well, and said Azerbaijan should export its produce because it is THAT good. I could not agree more.
It is such a treat for me to have access to produce that is organic, tasty, and reasonably priced. In the US organic produce is pretty expensive, in fact even regular produce is fairly pricey. I’ll never forget the first time I went food shopping in DC- my cart was full of fruits and vegetables, and maybe some milk and eggs, and my tab reached almost $80. Here I can by my weekly intake of veggies for about 15AZN (roughly $20).
Thus, although I cannot enjoy meat I have found myself experimenting a lot with all sorts of vegetables. I am currently obsessed with beets and take every opportunity to use them in my cooking. I have experienced a lot of success, too. Before coming here I was a mediocre cook at best, and now I van make some mean dishes.
For you veggie lovers out there, here a couple of recommendations:
1. Pinto Bean Salad:
– Cook pinto beans in water with minced garlic and salt
– Cut up red bell pepper, cucumbers, and radish
-Toss together with lemon juice, parsley, olive oil, salt, and pepper
2. Beets with Onions: http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Beets-with-Onion-and-Cumin/Detail.aspx?evt19=1
There are many, many more ideas out there, this a mere sample.
And the best part? All are 100% good for you.
South of Russia, North of Iran 
Yummy! I’ve been trying new veggies too – and I just discovered brussel sprouts. I’ve got some roasting in the oven as I type! I know how you feel about not being able to partake in a complete food culture. I don’t eat seafood, so when I went to Japan that was rough. Good to hear you’re having fun with the veggies and that they are inexpensive and great quality
Def try beet! Eggplants are next on my list!