Khmeli-suneli

Chicken fillet buzhenina is an exquisite dish of Russian cuisine that combines simplicity of preparation with rich flavor. This recipe, inspired by traditional buzenina, is adapted for the more tender chicken meat. The marinade with aromatic spices, khmeli-suneli, paprika, and garlic gives the fillet a rich taste and appetizing aroma. Baked to a golden crust, the buzenina becomes incredibly juicy and tender. The cooled meat is sliced thinly, perfect for sandwiches, salads or serving as an appetizer. An excellent solution for a festive table or cozy family dinner, this dish will impress with its versatility and simplicity.

The 'Tbilisi' salad with boiled tongue is a true embodiment of Georgian cuisine, known for its rich flavors and vibrant ingredients. This dish combines the tenderness of beef tongue, the sweetness of red pepper, and the spiciness of pickled onions, while the crunch of walnuts adds textural depth. Beans typical of Caucasian dishes add heartiness, and aromatic herbs and spices make the salad particularly expressive. The dressing made from apple cider vinegar and vegetable oil emphasizes the balance of sweet and sour notes. Historically, such dishes in Georgia were prepared for large feasts as they combine simplicity in preparation with richness in flavors. The salad is perfect as a standalone dish or as an accompaniment to meat delicacies, filling the meal with warmth and hospitality of traditional Georgian cuisine.

Khatuna Kolbaya, co-owner of Saperavi Café and "Vai Me!" shared the recipe with us. "Ojakhuri" is translated from Georgian as "family", from the word "ojahi" - "family". This is the name of one of the most famous and hearty dishes of Georgian cuisine . It consists of potatoes, onions, garlic, tomatoes, herbs, Georgian spices and meat, usually pork, because pork is an inexpensive, everyday, homemade meat. But if you cut it into small pieces and stew it with Svan salt , khmeli-suneli and basic tomato sauce satsebeli, and most importantly, generously sprinkle with cilantro, then everyday pork will literally blossom. Depending on the season, you can add new colors to the ojakhuri, for example, in the fall, replace some of the potatoes with quince, and in the winter with celery.

When we remember our childhood, we often think of home-cooked dinners, the recipes of which are passed down from generation to generation. This soup is exactly like that, and it seems to me that chicken soup gives any person, regardless of where they were born, a feeling of warmth and security, with it they feel at home everywhere. This recipe did not even have to be adapted to the restaurant format: rich broth, noodles, chicken meatballs - what could be better ? Perhaps a pinch of khmeli-suneli, which gives the soup a Georgian character. It is very convenient to cook a lot of broth at once, make the meatballs separately, and then simply combine them on the stove - this way, preparing a real homemade soup will take half an hour at most. Khatuna Kolbaya, co-owner of Saperavi Café and "Vai Me!" shared the recipe with us.

Satsivi is a jewel of Georgian cuisine, a dish embodying the richness of flavors and aromas of the Caucasus. It is an exquisite sauce made from walnuts, spices, and tender chicken that surprises with its depth of flavor despite its simplicity. Traditionally served cold, satsivi allows the ingredients to fully express themselves. The spiced walnut paste gives the meat a velvety texture while pomegranate seeds add a hint of acidity and sophistication. Originally prepared for holidays and feasts, it symbolizes the hospitality and culinary art of Georgian chefs. Modern adaptations allow for quick preparation without losing its authentic taste and soulfulness. A great choice for those wanting to experience Georgian hospitality without spending long hours in the kitchen.

Lamb shoulder shashlik in aromatic marinade is a true embodiment of Caucasian hospitality traditions and flavor harmony. The marinade, rich in lemon juice, spicy seasonings, and fresh vegetables, gives the meat amazing tenderness and a rich taste. Carbonated water adds softness to the shashlik, while tomatoes provide a slight acidity that complements the aromatic symphony of spices. Cilantro and khmeli-suneli fill the dish with Eastern motifs, while thin slices of onion absorb all the flavor nuances of the marinade, making the meat juicy and appetizing. Grilled over coals, the shashlik acquires a golden crust while retaining its juiciness inside. This dish pairs perfectly with lavash, fresh vegetables, and greens, creating an unforgettable atmosphere of warm gatherings and heartfelt conversations.

The recipe was shared with us by Artem Mukhin, chef of the Savoy restaurant.

Baked eggplants with turkey mince are a true gastronomic delight with Georgian notes. This dish combines the tenderness of baked eggplants, the juiciness of turkey mince, and the aromatic bouquet of khmeli-suneli spices. Its roots trace back to the rich traditions of Georgian cuisine, where vegetables, meat, and spices unite in harmonious flavor. The delicate cheese crust melted in the oven gives the dish an appetizing golden hue. Such a treat is perfect for a cozy family dinner or festive gathering. Cilantro and garlic add spicy accents, while fresh tomatoes in the filling bring a pleasant tanginess. The dish is served hot, garnished with greens, and can be accompanied by a light sauce or fresh vegetables. It's not just food; it's a whole story of flavor born from traditions and love for gastronomy.

Zucchini casserole with minced meat and mozzarella is a delicate and aromatic dish that combines the juiciness of vegetables, the richness of meat filling, and the stretchy creamy texture of mozzarella. This recipe has roots in European cuisine, where casseroles are often used to create comforting family dinners. Zucchini adds lightness to the casserole, while spices like khmeli-suneli enhance its flavor sophistication. The dish is perfect for both everyday dinners and festive tables, and its appetizing golden crust awakens the desire to try it again. It is best served hot, garnished with fresh herbs to highlight its fresh and balanced taste.

Beef ribs with baked pumpkin is a refined dish of Russian cuisine that combines the rich meat flavor with the gentle sweetness of pumpkin. It originates from ancient Russian traditions of meat preparation, where it was slow-cooked in an oven for tenderness and juiciness. Khmeli-suneli and Adyghe salt give the ribs a rich aroma, while sweet chili sauce adds a spicy note to the pumpkin garnish. Baking in foil preserves all the juices, and the final uncovered baking gives an appetizing crust. The dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner, and fresh cherry tomatoes and lettuce leaves decorate it, adding freshness. The wonderful combination of flavors makes it a favorite among lovers of hearty and harmonious dishes.

Chicken in walnut sauce is a gem of Georgian cuisine, infused with the aromas of spices and the rich flavor of walnuts. This dish has ancient roots and is closely tied to the traditions of feasting, symbolizing comfort and hospitality. Tender chicken meat soaked in a spicy sauce made from walnuts, khmeli-suneli, and garlic reveals a rich palette of flavors: from the light sweetness of paprika to the spicy note of cardamom. Cilantro adds freshness while garlic enhances the depth of aroma. The dish pairs perfectly with rice or mashed potatoes, allowing one to fully enjoy its velvety texture. It is not just food but a true gastronomic journey into the heart of Georgian culinary art where every detail is crafted to perfection.

Chicken Chakhokhbili is a traditional Georgian dish that captivates with its rich flavor and aroma. The recipe's origins date back to ancient times when it was made with pheasant. Today it is prepared with chicken, but the juicy tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and spicy seasonings remain unchanged. The slow-cooked meat becomes incredibly tender, and the rich sauce soaks each piece with the warmth of Georgian cuisine. Khmeli-suneli adds a piquant spiciness to the dish while fresh cilantro refreshes the taste. Chakhokhbili is served with a side — rice, potatoes or simply bread to enjoy every sip of the aromatic sauce. This dish creates an atmosphere of coziness and hospitality, filling the home with warmth and Eastern notes of culinary art.

Chicken gizzards in sour cream sauce with onions is a simple yet surprisingly delicious dish of Russian cuisine, where the tenderness of offal combines well with the rich aroma of spices. In ancient times, offal was valued for its nutrition and availability, while the addition of sour cream gives the dish a special softness and creamy texture. Fried onions add a sweet note, and khmeli-suneli reveals flavors with Eastern hints. This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or pasta, making it an ideal option for a family dinner. Spicy and rich, chicken gizzards in sour cream sauce can surprise even those unaccustomed to offal by revealing their tenderness and depth of flavor.

There are dozens of different kharcho recipes in Georgia: some cook it with nuts, some without, fresh tkemali is added for flavor or as a sauce, sometimes pomegranate juice or mulberry vinegar. The thickness can also vary. The only thing that remains unchanged: real kharcho cannot have potatoes, beans, or vermicelli. Only rice, which slightly cools the temperament of hot Georgian spices and balances the bright combination of meat, tomatoes and tkemali.

Pea soup with smoked meats and bell pepper is a true gastronomic delight that combines the traditions of Russian cuisine with vibrant spice notes. Its history traces back to ancient peasant recipes where peas served as a nutritious base and smoked meats added a rich aroma. This soup has a thick, velvety texture with an expressive smoky flavor beautifully complemented by the sweetness of bell pepper. Spices like paprika and khmeli-suneli give the dish a rich character, while herbs and sour cream make it tender and fresh. An ideal choice for a cozy family lunch or a warming dinner on a cool day.