Crunch on Churchkhela along the cobblestones

This dish is perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth or those who appreciate unique snacks. Adventurous eaters will enjoy the combination of textures and flavors. Churchkhela is suitable for vegetarians and can also be enjoyed by those on gluten-free diets, making it approachable for many.

Churchkhela is sweet and fruity due to the grape juice, with a rich nuttiness from the nuts. The texture combines chewiness from the outer layer and crunchiness from the nuts inside, making each bite a delightful contrast of sensations.

Churchkhela pairs excellently with a glass of Georgian wine, particularly fruit-forward varieties. Additionally, it complements cheese platters, enhancing the sweet and savory balance. Some enjoy it with coffee, creating a delightful contrast of flavors.

1. Nuts: Usually walnuts or hazelnuts, these provide a crunchy texture and a rich flavor.
2. Grape Juice: Thickened juice from local grapes, this is the primary sweetener and provides a fruity taste.
3. Flour: Often used to help the juice adhere to the nuts, giving the candy its distinctive shape.
4. Water: Used to dilute and cook the grape juice, this helps achieve the desired thickness.

To make Churchkhela, nuts are first threaded onto a string. Then they are dipped multiple times into boiling thickened grape juice, allowing each layer to dry before the next dip. The resulting candy is shaped like a candle, often hung to dry further until it reaches the desired thickness.

This food challenge invites you to indulge in one of Georgia's most iconic sweets, Churchkhela, as you stroll through the picturesque streets of Old Tbilisi. The challenge lies not only in enjoying this delightful treat but also in savoring the local ambiance, surrounded by stunning architecture and vibrant culture. You might find yourself sharing a moment with friendly street cats, adding a unique twist to your experience. This combination of food and place makes it a memorable culinary adventure!

Kakheti Style

In the Kakheti region, Churchkhela often uses a thicker blend of grape juice, resulting in a more robust flavor and texture. It occasionally features a mix of various nuts to enhance the experience.

Imereti Variations

Some areas prefer using hazelnuts instead of walnuts, which provides a different nutty flavor profile, adding variety to this beloved treat.

In modern-day Georgia, Churchkhela is enjoyed as a popular street food, often found at markets and festivals. It's common to see vendors hanging them for sale, adding to the cultural tapestry of Old Tbilisi. They are also used in festivities and celebrations, symbolizing hospitality and abundance. Practically a rite of passage, many Georgians have learned to make Churchkhela from their families, ensuring the tradition continues.

Churchkhela has deep historical roots in Georgian cuisine, often referred to as "Georgian Snickers". Believed to date back to ancient times, it was traditionally made during grape harvests as a means of preserving nuts and grapes for the colder months. Over the years, the recipe has evolved but remains a cherished snack, showcasing Georgia's rich agricultural heritage, particularly its unique grape varieties. Its popularity also grew with the onset of trade with neighboring cultures, where nuts and dried fruits were valued as staple foods.

The Nutty Tradition

Churchkhela is often made using the most local nuts, making every region's take on the candy unique based on what's available.

A Street Food Staple

In Georgia, street vendors often sell Churchkhela, making it readily accessible to both locals and tourists alike, complete with their unique twists.

Beyond Just a Snack

This delightful treat has been a part of various celebrations and is a symbol of Georgian hospitality, often gifted to guests.