Pkhali, those seasoned and colorful balls of vegetables, are an essential part of any Georgian feast. No festive gathering or wedding celebration feels complete without this incredibly delicious dish, which also serves as a warm welcome for honored guests in the home.
As a true emblem of Georgian culinary tradition, pkhali can be crafted from a wide array of ingredients, including spinach, beets, red beans, eggplant, and cauliflower. Light yet satisfying, this dish is perfect for vegetarians while also complementing meat-based main courses beautifully. The richness of pkhali comes from the addition of ground walnuts, which provide a delightful creaminess, while the delicate texture is achieved through the careful cooking and seasoning of the vegetables.
Creating classic pkhali is straightforward. Start with your vegetable of choice, crushing and boiling it until it becomes tender. In the meantime, prepare a garlic dressing using grated garlic mixed with finely chopped walnuts. Once the vegetables are cooked to perfection, combine all the ingredients thoroughly. If desired, you can enhance the flavor by adding chopped herbs, a splash of lemon juice, or a dash of wine vinegar at this stage. Season the mixture with salt to taste, then shape it into medium-sized balls, ovals, or any form you prefer.
In supermarkets, you might find pkhali in its original, shapeless form, but in restaurants, it is often presented as an assortment of assorted pkhali, showcasing a colorful array of vegetable varieties. Each portion is typically garnished with vibrant pomegranate seeds, adding a touch of elegance and a burst of flavor.