ADJARIAN YAKHNI

Authentic Adjarian Yakhni served in a rustic Georgian setting
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Prep Time: ~20 min
Cook Time: ~2 hours
Total: ~2 hours 20 min
Servings: 8-10
📖 INTRO

Adjarian Yakhni is a traditional walnut-based meat stew from the Adjara region of Georgia. Tender pieces of beef are slowly simmered and enriched with ground walnuts, onions, garlic, and aromatic Georgian spices, creating a rich and flavorful dish with a distinctive nutty character.

🏛️ HISTORY

Yakhni is one of Adjara's most beloved traditional dishes. Walnuts have long played an important role in western Georgian cuisine, and this hearty stew reflects the region's preference for combining meat with rich walnut sauces and fragrant spices. It is commonly served with fresh bread and enjoyed during family gatherings and festive meals.

🧂 INGREDIENTS
Ingredients for Georgian beet salad including beets, walnuts, garlic and fresh herbs
👨‍🍳 INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1

Cut the meat into medium-sized pieces, cover with water, bring to a boil, and remove any foam that rises to the surface.

Boiled beets being peeled and grated for Georgian beet salad

Step 2

When the meat is half-cooked, add finely chopped onions and continue simmering.

Walnuts and garlic being crushed into a coarse paste

Step 3

Mix the crushed walnuts with saffron, ground coriander, black pepper, and salt, then add the mixture to the pot.

Grated beets mixed with walnut and garlic mixture in a bowl

Step 4

Cook until the meat becomes tender and the walnut sauce thickens.

Adding vinegar and salt to beet salad and mixing thoroughly

Step 5

Remove from the heat, stir in crushed garlic, and serve hot.

Fresh herbs being finely chopped and added to beet salad
💡 TIPS
  • Use beef with some fat for a richer flavor.
  • Grind the walnuts very finely for a smoother sauce.
  • Add garlic only at the end to preserve its aroma.
  • Serve with fresh Georgian bread or mchadi.
🌍 Ingredient Substitutes
  • Beef → Lamb Lamb creates a richer traditional flavor.
  • Walnuts → Pecans Not traditional, but can provide a similar texture.
  • Ground saffron → Georgian marigold seasoning Commonly used in Georgian cooking.
  • Fresh garlic → Garlic paste Can be used when fresh garlic is unavailable.
🍽️ NUTRITION (Approximate)
  • Calories: ~480 kcal per serving
  • Fat: ~34 g
  • Protein: ~35 g
  • Rich in protein and healthy fats
❓ FAQ
Can I use bone-in meat?

Yes, bone-in meat creates a richer broth and deeper flavor.

Why is the garlic added at the end?

Adding garlic at the end preserves its aroma and flavor.

What should Yakhni be served with?

It is traditionally served with bread, mchadi, or other Georgian side dishes.

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