Kharcho of Hen

Kharcho of Hen Recipe - A Delicious Georgian Dish

Region / culture: Georgia | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 6

Introduction

Kharcho of Hen is a traditional Georgian dish that is rich in flavor and history. This hearty stew is made with tender pieces of hen, onions, tomatoes, and a flavorful walnut sauce. It is a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy night in.

History

Kharcho of Hen has been a staple in Georgian cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the region of Kakheti, where hen was a common ingredient in traditional dishes. The dish has evolved over time, with different regions adding their own unique twists and variations. Today, Kharcho of Hen is enjoyed all over Georgia and beyond.

Ingredients

1 hen
4 to 5 onions
1.5 cups walnuts
4 to 5 tomatoes
2 cloves of garlic
1 tsp pounded saffron
several shoots of coriander
1 tsp dry coriander

How to prepare

Cut a cleaned and thoroughly washed hen into pieces. Put the pieces into a saucepan and add shredded onions. Close the cover and place the pan on the fire.
Stew until the onions turn brown. Then, cover the pieces with boiling water and add peeled and finally shredded tomatoes.
Mince walnuts, garlic, dry and fresh coriander, pepper, and saffron in a mortar. Put the mixture into a small bowl.
Gradually add broth using a tablespoon and thoroughly stir the mixture.
Pour the mixture into the pan and boil until the hen is cooked.
Add salt to taste.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the hen with mushrooms or tofu.
Add some dried apricots or prunes for a touch of sweetness in the stew.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brown the onions well before adding the hen pieces. This will help to develop a rich flavor in the stew.

- Be sure to stir the walnut sauce mixture thoroughly to ensure that it is well combined before adding it to the pan.

- Adjust the amount of saffron to your taste preference. Saffron adds a unique flavor and color to the dish, so feel free to experiment with the amount.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Kharcho of Hen with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Stew the hen pieces until they are tender and cooked through.

- Make sure to simmer the stew on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use chicken or beef in place of hen if desired.

- Use almonds or cashews in place of walnuts for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Kharcho of Hen can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the stew with fresh coriander leaves and a sprinkle of saffron for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Kharcho of Hen with a side of Georgian bread and a glass of red wine for a complete dining experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

320 per serving

Carbohydrates

12g per serving

Fats

18g per serving

Proteins

24g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts (walnuts) and may not be suitable for those with nut allergies.

Summary

Kharcho of Hen is a nutritious and balanced meal that is high in protein and healthy fats. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Kharcho of Hen is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy this traditional Georgian dish with friends and family for a memorable dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of wonder. It was a beautiful, hand-written note that my dear friend Sofia had given me during one of our weekly visits. The paper was yellowed with age, and the ink had started to fade, but the words were still clear and intricate.

"Sophia's Kharcho of Hen," the title read. The recipe detailed the ingredients and steps needed to create a rich and hearty dish that had been passed down through generations in Sofia's family. I was immediately intrigued by the history and tradition behind the recipe, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

I had always been passionate about cooking ever since I was a young girl. My mother taught me the basics, but I was always hungry for more knowledge and new recipes to try. Over the years, I had collected countless recipes from cookbooks, magazines, and friends, but there was something special about Sofia's Kharcho of Hen that drew me in.

I reached out to Sofia and asked her if she would be willing to teach me how to make the dish. She was delighted at the idea and invited me over to her home the following weekend. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I could smell the fragrant spices and herbs that filled the air. Sofia greeted me with a warm smile and began to show me the art of creating the perfect Kharcho of Hen.

She started by explaining the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients in order to achieve the best flavor. She showed me how to properly dice the onions and garlic, and how to brown the hen in a hot skillet to seal in the juices. As she added the tomatoes, spices, and stock to the pot, the aroma of the dish filled the room, making my mouth water in anticipation.

As the Kharcho of Hen simmered on the stove, Sofia shared stories of her grandmother who had taught her how to make the dish when she was just a young girl. She spoke of family gatherings and celebrations where the Kharcho of Hen was always the highlight of the meal. I could feel the love and tradition that had been passed down through the generations, and I knew that I was learning something truly special.

After hours of cooking and stirring, the Kharcho of Hen was finally ready. Sofia ladled the steaming stew into bowls and garnished each one with fresh herbs and a dollop of sour cream. As I took my first bite, I was overwhelmed by the rich and savory flavors that danced on my tongue. The tender pieces of hen melted in my mouth, and the spices lingered on my palate, leaving me craving more.

I thanked Sofia for sharing her family recipe with me and promised to continue the tradition by passing it down to future generations. As I left her home that day, I felt a sense of fulfillment and pride in knowing that I had learned how to make Sofia's Kharcho of Hen. It had become a part of me, a cherished recipe that I would hold dear for the rest of my days.

And now, as I stand in my own kitchen, preparing the Kharcho of Hen for my own family, I can't help but smile as I think back to that first moment of wonder when I saw the recipe. It has brought me joy, memories, and a sense of connection to the past that I will always treasure. Cooking is not just about food, it's about love, tradition, and the stories that we share with those we care about. And for me, Sofia's Kharcho of Hen will always hold a special place in my heart.