When you think of Georgian cuisine, what comes to mind? If it’s rich stews, cheesy bread, and perfectly spiced meat dishes, you’re spot on.
Nestled between Europe and Asia, Georgia’s food is a delicious blend of bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and soul-warming comfort.
It’s the kind of food that makes you want to grab seconds—maybe thirds.
Whether it’s their cheesy khachapuri, hearty khinkali dumplings, or sweet churchkhela, each dish tells a story.
Buckle up because this tasty journey through the best Georgian recipes is going to make your taste buds do a happy dance.
Get ready to fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas!
1. Khachapuri (Georgian Cheese Bread)
If you’ve never heard of khachapuri, imagine a warm, golden-brown bread stuffed with gooey cheese, topped with an egg yolk, and a pat of butter.
Sounds heavenly, right? Khachapuri is Georgia’s most famous dish, and it’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or just a cozy snack.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp instant yeast
- ¾ cup warm water
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tbsp butter
How to Make It:
Mix the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Gradually add warm water until a dough forms.
Knead for 5 minutes, then let it rise for an hour. Roll out the dough into an oval shape, fill it with mozzarella and feta, then fold the edges to form a boat-like shape.
Bake at 425°F for 15 minutes, add the egg yolk and butter, and bake for 5 more minutes. Serve warm and watch it disappear in minutes!
Why we chose it
Khachapuri is Georgia’s ultimate comfort food. Its cheesy goodness and fluffy crust make it a must-try for anyone exploring Georgian cuisine.
2. Khinkali (Georgian Dumplings)
Think of khinkali as Georgia’s answer to dumplings—but way more exciting. These little pockets of joy are filled with juicy meat and flavorful broth.
They’re not just food; they’re an experience. The proper way to eat one? Hold it by the top, take a bite, slurp the broth, then finish the rest.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ cup water
- 1 lb ground beef or lamb
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp ground cumin
How to Make It:
Combine flour, salt, and water to form a dough. Roll it out and cut circles. Mix the ground meat, onion, garlic, pepper, and cumin for the filling.
Place a spoonful in each dough circle, pinch the edges together to seal, and form a pleated top.
Boil in salted water for 10-12 minutes until they float. Serve with black pepper.
Why we selected it
Khinkali is the perfect blend of flavor and fun. Each bite is a burst of juicy, savory deliciousness that keeps you coming back for more.
3. Lobio (Georgian Red Bean Stew)
Lobio is a humble dish that packs a surprising punch of flavor. Made with red kidney beans, garlic, onions, and fresh herbs, this stew is hearty, healthy, and downright satisfying.
It’s usually served with cornbread or fresh vegetables on the side.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked red kidney beans
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ cup chopped cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
Sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until soft. Add the cooked beans, coriander, paprika, and a splash of water.
Simmer for 10 minutes, then stir in the cilantro and season with salt and pepper. Serve hot with crusty bread.
Why did this make it to our list
Lobio is a comforting dish that proves simple ingredients can create something magical. It’s a perfect choice for a chilly evening.
4. Badrijani Nigvzit (Eggplant Rolls with Walnut Filling)
Badrijani Nigvzit might just become your new obsession. These eggplant rolls are stuffed with a rich walnut paste seasoned with garlic, herbs, and spices.
They’re the perfect appetizer or snack, balancing earthy eggplant with the nutty goodness of the filling.
Ingredients:
- 2 large eggplants, sliced lengthwise
- 1 cup walnuts
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- ½ tsp ground fenugreek
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
How to Make It:
Sprinkle eggplant slices with salt and let them sit for 20 minutes to draw out moisture.
Rinse and pat dry. Fry the slices in olive oil until golden and set aside.
Blend the walnuts, garlic, coriander, fenugreek, cayenne, and cilantro in a food processor, adding a splash of water to make a smooth paste.
Spread the walnut paste on each eggplant slice, then roll them up. Chill before serving for the best flavor.
Why we chose it
Badrijani Nigvzit is a unique dish that’s healthy, flavorful, and totally addictive. It’s one of Georgia’s best-kept culinary secrets!
5. Chakhokhbili (Georgian Chicken Stew)
Chakhokhbili is a rich, aromatic chicken stew simmered with tomatoes, onions, and fresh herbs.
This dish is hearty without being heavy, and it’s packed with fresh, vibrant flavors that’ll have you scraping the bowl clean.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 large onions, chopped
- 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
Brown the chicken pieces in a pot until golden. Remove and set aside. Sauté the onions until soft, then add the tomatoes, garlic, paprika, and thyme.
Cook for 5 minutes, then return the chicken to the pot. Add a cup of water, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes. Finish with fresh cilantro. Serve with rice or crusty bread.
Why we selected it
Chakhokhbili is the ultimate comfort dish—savory, warming, and bursting with Georgian flavors.
6. Pkhali (Vegetable and Walnut Spread)
Pkhali is a traditional Georgian spread made with vegetables like spinach, beets, or carrots blended with walnuts and herbs.
It’s typically served as a cold appetizer and is a great addition to any dinner table.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups spinach, blanched
- 1 cup walnuts
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
Blend the spinach, walnuts, garlic, coriander, red pepper flakes, and cilantro in a food processor until smooth.
Season with salt and pepper. Chill for an hour before serving. Garnish with pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and flavor.
Why did this make it to our list
Pkhali is healthy, delicious, and a true Georgian classic that brings color and flavor to any meal.
7. Satsivi (Chicken in Walnut Sauce)
Satsivi is a decadent dish where tender chicken is smothered in a creamy walnut sauce seasoned with garlic, herbs, and spices.
This dish is rich and flavorful, often served cold as part of a festive spread.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken, boiled and shredded
- 2 cups walnuts
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- ½ tsp ground fenugreek
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper
- ½ cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
Blend the walnuts, garlic, coriander, fenugreek, and cayenne with a bit of chicken broth until smooth.
Simmer the walnut sauce for 10 minutes, then add the shredded chicken.
Cook for another 10 minutes, adding more broth if needed. Chill and serve cold with fresh herbs on top.
Why we chose it
Satsivi is pure comfort food with a luxurious twist. The walnut sauce makes it unforgettable.
8. Chakapuli (Lamb and Herb Stew)
Chakapuli is a tangy lamb stew with tarragon, white wine, and plums.
It’s the perfect dish to highlight Georgian herbs and fresh ingredients. The balance of savory and sour flavors is what makes this dish stand out.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs lamb, cut into chunks
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups tarragon leaves
- ½ cup green plums or plum sauce
- 1 cup white grape juice
- 1 bunch cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
Brown the lamb in a pot, then add the onions and cook until soft. Stir in the tarragon, plums, and grape juice.
Add water to cover and simmer for 1.5 hours. Finish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Why we selected it
Chakapuli’s unique flavor combo makes it one of Georgia’s most exciting dishes—perfect for adventurous eaters.
9. Churchkhela (Georgian Candy)
Churchkhela is a traditional Georgian treat made by dipping nuts in thickened grape juice.
It looks like a string of sausages but tastes like chewy candy with a nutty center. These sweet snacks are both healthy and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups grape juice
- ½ cup cornmeal
- 1 cup walnuts
- String for threading
How to Make It:
Thread the walnuts onto a string and set aside. Heat the grape juice and gradually whisk in the cornmeal until thickened.
Dip the walnut strings into the mixture, coat them well, and hang them to dry for a few days.
Why did this make it to our list
Churchkhela is not just a snack—it’s an edible piece of Georgian culture that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
10. Ajapsandali (Georgian Vegetable Stew)
Ajapsandali is Georgia’s take on ratatouille. It’s a vegetable medley made with eggplants, tomatoes, bell peppers, and fresh herbs.
This dish is light, healthy, and packed with summer flavors.
Ingredients:
- 2 eggplants, diced
- 3 tomatoes, chopped
- 2 bell peppers, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant. Add the eggplants, tomatoes, and bell peppers.
Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper, then garnish with fresh parsley.
Why we chose it
Ajapsandali is a vibrant dish that’s perfect for vegetarians—or anyone who loves fresh, seasonal ingredients.
11. Gozinaki (Georgian Honey and Walnut Candy)
Gozinaki is a traditional Georgian holiday treat made with caramelized honey and walnuts. It’s crunchy, sweet, and totally irresistible.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups walnuts
- 1 cup honey
How to Make It:
Toast the walnuts in a dry pan. Heat the honey in a pot until it bubbles, then add the walnuts.
Stir and cook for 5 minutes. Pour the mixture onto parchment paper, spread it out, and let it cool. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Why we selected it
Gozinaki is a simple yet addictive treat that highlights the natural sweetness of honey and the richness of walnuts.
Conclusion
Georgia’s cuisine is a treasure trove of bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and unforgettable dishes.
Whether you’re whipping up some cheesy khachapuri or indulging in sweet churchkhela, there’s something for everyone.