Satsivi
Chicken in walnut sauce, a traditional Georgian dish often served cold.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Georgian cuisine has been influenced by its location on the Silk Road, incorporating elements from Persian, Ottoman, and Mediterranean cultures. Walnut sauces have a long history in the region, predating widespread use of ingredients like tomatoes. Satsivi likely evolved from earlier walnut-based dishes.
Satsivi is a festive dish, traditionally prepared for special occasions like New Year's (Shoba) and Christmas. It's considered a celebratory and communal meal, often made in large quantities to share with family and friends.
New Year's Feast
Satsivi is an integral part of the Supra, the traditional Georgian feast. It's often one of the centerpiece dishes served during New Year's celebrations, symbolizing abundance and prosperity for the coming year.
Symbol of Hospitality
Offering Satsivi to guests is a sign of hospitality and warmth. The time and effort required to prepare the dish underscore the importance placed on welcoming visitors.
Family Tradition
Recipes for Satsivi are often passed down through generations, with each family having its own unique variation and secret ingredient combinations. Preparing it is a collaborative family activity.
Satsivi is characterized by its rich, savory, and slightly tangy walnut sauce, complemented by the tender chicken and aromatic spices.
The dominant flavor is undoubtedly the earthy and creamy walnut, balanced by the acidity of vinegar or pomegranate juice. A complex blend of spices, typically including coriander, fenugreek (utskho suneli), marigold (imeruli shafrani), garlic, and chili pepper, adds depth and warmth. The chicken itself provides a subtle savory background to the sauce.
Walnut Quality Matters
Use high-quality, fresh walnuts for the best flavor. Toasting the walnuts lightly before grinding enhances their aroma.
Spice Proportions are Key
The blend of spices is crucial. Experiment with different ratios to find your preferred balance, but be mindful of the strong flavors of fenugreek and marigold.
Consistency is Important
The sauce should be thick and creamy, but not overly dense. Adjust the consistency with chicken broth or water as needed.
Let it Rest
Satsivi tastes best after it has had time to rest and the flavors have melded together. Prepare it a day in advance for optimal flavor.
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