Georgian Spinach Pkhali (Green Pkhali)

Ingredients

  • 400–500 g fresh spinach
  • 150 g ground walnuts (you can grind them twice for a finer texture)
  • A small bunch of fresh cilantro
  • 4 garlic cloves
  • 1/4 tsp hot pepper (or to taste)
  • 2–3 tbsp white wine vinegar
  • 2 tsp ground coriander
  • 2 tsp utskho-suneli (blue fenugreek)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp sugar

Description

A classic Georgian appetizer made with spinach, walnuts, herbs, and aromatic spices. Simple, healthy, and perfect for any table.

Preparation

  1. Prepare the spinach Wash, stem, and blanch the spinach for a few minutes until wilted. Drain, cool, and squeeze out excess water. (You can add a little of the spinach water back later if the mixture becomes too dry.)
  2. Grind or chop everything Using a meat grinder or a chopper/food processor, grind the spinach, garlic, walnuts, and cilantro. It does not matter in which order you grind the ingredients.
  3. Mix and season Combine the ground mixture in a bowl. Add coriander, hot pepper, utskho-suneli, salt, and sugar. Mix well.
  4. Add vinegar and adjust taste Stir in the vinegar and adjust seasoning to your liking.
  5. Shape and serve Form small balls or patties, or serve as a spread.

Enjoy this vibrant, aromatic Georgian dish — simple to prepare and full of flavour!

Quick Tip: A great place to buy utskho-suneli (blue fenugreek) is in Moncton, NB at “A Taste of Homeland”, 1201 Mountain Rd.