Red Beans Pkhali

Red Beans Pkhali Recipe - Authentic Vegetarian Georgian Cuisine

Region / culture: Georgia | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Red Beans Pkhali is a traditional Georgian dish that is packed with flavor and nutrients. This dish is made with red beans, walnuts, garlic, and a variety of herbs and spices, making it a delicious and healthy option for any meal.

History

Red Beans Pkhali has been a staple in Georgian cuisine for centuries. It is often served as a side dish or appetizer, and is loved for its rich flavors and unique combination of ingredients.

Ingredients

500 g of red beans
1 cup of walnuts
4 cloves of garlic
3 shoots of coriander and celery
3 shoots of savory
0.33 tsp of fenugreek
1 pomegranate

How to prepare

Sort and rinse the beans under running water.
Place the beans in a saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat.
Add water several times during cooking to prevent the beans from burning.
Once the beans are cooked, drain the liquid into another bowl.
Crush the walnuts, garlic, fresh coriander, celery, and savory together.
Mix in the ground coriander and spices, then thin it out with the reserved bean liquid.
Carefully combine this mixture with the beans in the saucepan using a spoon.
Garnish with pomegranate seeds.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Variations

You can add different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of this dish.
Try adding cooked vegetables or grains to make it a more filling meal option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to rinse the beans thoroughly before cooking to remove any dirt or debris.

- Adding water to the beans while cooking will help prevent them from burning.

- Crushing the walnuts, garlic, and herbs together will create a flavorful paste that can be mixed with the beans for a delicious dish.

Serving Suggestions

Red Beans Pkhali can be served as a side dish or appetizer, alongside grilled meats or vegetables. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a light and healthy meal.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling the beans until they are tender is key to making this dish.

- Crushing the walnuts and herbs together will create a flavorful paste that can be mixed with the beans.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use different types of beans or nuts in place of the red beans and walnuts.

- Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create a unique flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Red Beans Pkhali can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with extra pomegranate seeds and fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Red Beans Pkhali contains approximately 250 calories, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal option.

Carbohydrates

Red Beans Pkhali is a great source of carbohydrates, providing energy for your body to function properly.

Fats

The walnuts in this dish are a good source of healthy fats, which are essential for brain health and overall well-being.

Proteins

Red beans are a great source of plant-based protein, making this dish a nutritious option for vegetarians and vegans.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the pomegranate seeds and various nutrients from the herbs and spices.

Alergens

This dish contains walnuts, which may be a common allergen for some individuals. Be sure to check for any allergies before serving.

Summary

Overall, Red Beans Pkhali is a nutritious and delicious dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Red Beans Pkhali is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals, this dish is a great option for any meal. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Red Beans Pkhali. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her quaint little kitchen. Maria was known for her delicious Georgian dishes, and she had promised to teach me one of her family's secret recipes that day.

As I watched Maria gather the ingredients for the Pkhali, I couldn't help but be intrigued by the vibrant colors and fragrant spices that filled the air. The deep red kidney beans, fresh cilantro, and aromatic cumin all hinted at the exotic flavors that awaited me.

Maria began by boiling the beans until they were tender, then draining and mashing them into a smooth paste. She added a generous amount of finely chopped garlic, walnuts, and a splash of red wine vinegar to the mixture, giving it a tangy kick that I had never tasted before.

As she mixed in the cumin, coriander, and a pinch of cayenne pepper, the Pkhali took on a rich, earthy flavor that made my mouth water. Maria explained that these spices were traditional in Georgian cuisine, and that they added depth and complexity to the dish.

Next, Maria meticulously arranged the Pkhali on a platter, shaping it into small mounds and garnishing each one with a sprig of fresh cilantro. The final touch was a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds, which added a burst of sweetness and color to the dish.

As I took my first bite of the Red Beans Pkhali, I was transported to a world of bold flavors and exotic aromas. The creamy texture of the beans, the crunch of the walnuts, and the burst of pomegranate seeds all melded together in a symphony of taste that left me craving more.

I knew that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself, so I asked Maria to teach me her family's recipe. She smiled and handed me a handwritten card with the ingredients and instructions, telling me that I was now part of an ancient tradition that had been passed down through generations.

Over the years, I have made Red Beans Pkhali countless times, each batch slightly different but always delicious. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, who have all marveled at the unique combination of flavors and textures that make this dish so special.

I am grateful to Maria for introducing me to this culinary gem, and I know that it will always hold a special place in my heart. The Red Beans Pkhali is not just a dish to me, it is a reminder of the beauty and richness of Georgian cuisine, and a testament to the power of food to bring people together in joy and celebration.