Can I store leftovers?

Yes, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

What if I don’t have red wine vinegar?

You can substitute with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar.

Can I prepare the walnut paste in advance?

Yes, the paste can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

Is there a substitute for walnuts?

Pecans can be used as an alternative to walnuts for a different flavor.

How can I make this vegan?

Use a dairy-free yogurt for the sauce to make this dish vegan-friendly.

Zesty Georgian Badrijani Eggplant Rolls with Walnut Paste

Name: Zesty Georgian Badrijani Eggplant Rolls with Walnut Paste
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4-6
Cuisine: Appetizer
Ingredients: 2 large eggplants, sliced lengthwise into 1/4 inch slices; 1 tablespoon salt; 1 cup walnuts, finely ground; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 3 tablespoons water; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste; Pomegranate seeds; Fresh cilantro leaves; 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Zest of 1 lemon

Authentic Georgian Delight

Indulge in these savory eggplant rolls stuffed with a spicy walnut paste, capturing the classic flavors of Georgian cuisine.

1 h 30 min
4-6
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Eggplant Rolls

2 large eggplants, sliced lengthwise into 1/4 inch slices

1 tablespoon salt

For the Walnut Paste

1 cup walnuts, finely ground

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

3 tablespoons water

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Garnish

Pomegranate seeds

Fresh cilantro leaves

For the Sauce

1 cup plain yogurt

2 tablespoons lemon juice

Zest of 1 lemon

Preparation

Preparing the Eggplant

Sprinkle eggplant slices with salt

Sprinkle eggplant slices with salt and let sit for 30 minutes to extract moisture.

Use fresh, pliable eggplants for the best texture in your rolls.

Rinse and pat dry

Rinse and pat dry with paper towels.

Brush with olive oil

Brush each slice with olive oil.

Making the Walnut Paste

Combine ingredients

In a food processor, combine walnuts, garlic, coriander, paprika, cayenne, water, and vinegar.

Toast the walnuts lightly for added depth of flavor.

Blend until smooth

Blend until smooth, adding more water if needed to reach a spreadable consistency.

Ensure walnut paste is not too thick; it should be smooth and spreadable.

Season

Season with salt and pepper.

Cooking Process

Grill the Eggplants

Preheat grill to medium heat and grill eggplant slices for 3-5 minutes per side until tender.

Stuff the Rolls

Spread walnut paste on each eggplant slice and roll up tightly.

Chill the Rolls

Refrigerate for 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.

Plating & Serving