Sweet World of Kartli: Georgian Sweets, Their History and Calorie Content
Discover the taste of Georgian sweets such as churchkhela, kozinaki and pelamushi. Find out their history, calorie content and where to buy them in Georgia. Read reviews, see photos and find the best places to buy these delicacies in the Madloba catalog.
History of Traditional Georgian Sweets
Review of desserts and their calorie content
Lesser Known Georgian Desserts
Prices for traditional sweet dishes of Kartli
How do Georgian desserts differ from sweets from other countries?
Recommendations for tourists on choosing Caucasian delicacies
Georgia is famous not only for its vineyards and mountain landscapes, but also for its rich culinary heritage, in particular its unique desserts. The sweets of this amazing country with their natural ingredients and incredible flavor combinations are a reflection of ancient traditions. Each delicacy carries special symbolism and provides an opportunity to understand the history of the country more deeply. Their recipes are passed down from generation to generation, remaining an important part of the cultural heritage.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the most popular Georgian desserts, their origin and calorie content, and also tell you where to buy them.
The Historical Path of Georgian Sweets
Sweet dishes, like herself Georgian cuisine, have ancient roots that go back centuries. Situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, this country has always been rich in a variety of ingredients and has been exposed to numerous cultural influences, which contributed to the creation of unique desserts. Sakartvelo cuisine is famous not only for its famous hearty dishes such as shashlik and khachapuri, but also for its range of sweets.
The history of sweet dishes in the Caucasus began in ancient times, when natural products such as honey, nuts and grape juice played an important role in everyday life and festive rituals. Honey symbolized health and longevity, and nuts - fertility. Over time, the dishes evolved, new ingredients were added to their recipes, and cooking techniques changed. Modern Georgian desserts retain their authenticity, but at the same time harmoniously combine with new culinary trends, which makes them truly special.
🔍 Did you know? Many Georgian sweets, such as churchkhela and gozinaki, were often taken on campaigns and to war, since due to their high nutritional value and long shelf life, they served as a quick source of energy for warriors on long journeys.
Review of desserts and their calorie content
Kozinaki
Caloric content: about 500 kcal per 100 g.
Kozinaki, or gozinaki, are crispy sweet slices made from walnuts and honey. These delicacies are traditionally prepared for the New Year and other holidays, as they symbolize good luck and abundance. Georgians claim that real kozinaki should be crispy and crumbly at the same time, with a pronounced aroma of nuts and the natural sweetness of honey. The secret of the perfect dessert lies in the correct roasting of the nut kernels and maintaining the exact proportions of bee nectar in order to preserve its delicate taste without overshadowing the main ingredient.
💡 Interesting fact! In the old days, it was believed that kozinaki prepared for the New Year would bring happiness and prosperity to the house, so families carefully selected the highest quality nuts and honey to make the dessert perfect.
Pelamushi
Caloric value: about 200 kcal per 100 g.
Pelamushi, a traditional dessert of western Georgia, is a dish made from grape juice and corn flour, which has a rich purple color and a pleasant texture. The dish is often served with nuts to give it a special flavor and make it more filling.
This pudding is loved by both adults and children for its natural sweetness and visual appeal. Historically, pelamushi is prepared during the grape harvest festival - rtveli. This dish symbolizes the generosity of the earth and gratitude for the fruitful harvest.
🤓 Interesting fact! Traditionally, pelamushi is prepared during the cold season. This dessert is great for winter holidays and family gatherings.
Tatara
Caloric content: about 220 kcal per 100 g.
Tatara is a thick grape paste that is the basis for churchkhela. It is prepared from fresh grape juice, which is boiled until a creamy consistency is obtained. Unlike pelamushi, tatara has a denser texture and is rich in natural sugars. In western Georgia, this dessert is often prepared with the addition of wheat flour.
💡 Interesting fact! Tatara is not only used as an independent delicacy, but also serves as a filling for pies and cakes, giving them a unique grape flavor.
Churchkhela
Caloric content: 350-400 calories per 100 grams.
Churchkhela is not just a dessert, but a symbol of Georgian traditions, which is nuts strung on a thread and filled with thick grape juice, dried until the sweetness becomes dense and rich.
🎯 Did you know? Nut pastila served not only as a delicacy, but also as a real "energy bar" for Georgian warriors. Due to its high caloric content and ability to be stored for a long time, it was indispensable during campaigns, and maintained the strength and endurance of soldiers.
💡 Interesting fact! Churchkhela is often called "Georgian Snickers" due to its high content of proteins and carbohydrates. This traditional delicacy becomes an excellent snack for replenishing energy and maintaining activity, especially during long journeys.
Tklapi
Caloric content: about 160 kcal per 100 g.
Tklapi, or fruit pastila, is a traditional Georgian dessert made from sour fruits such as plums, cherry plums or pomegranates, and is thin strips of dried fruit mass, distinguished by a rich and bright taste. This pastila has not only a wonderful taste, but also benefits, since it contains a large number of vitamins and antioxidants that help strengthen the immune system and maintain overall health.
Interestingly, pastila in the Caucasus is dried in the sun, which allows preserving all the useful substances of the fruit. This traditional cooking method not only makes the dessert aromatic and rich, but also ensures a long shelf life without losing its nutritional properties.
🧐 Interesting fact! Fruit pastila is often used as an additive to meat dishes or as a base for snacks, giving them an original and exotic taste. If you came to Holidays in the capital of Adjara, you can look into the local shops и bakeries, which offer different variations of this dessert.
Chiri
Caloric content: about 260 kcal per 100 g.
Chiri, or dried fruits, are a traditional treat of the sunny Caucasus. They include figs, pears, peaches, apples and persimmons, which are dried in the sun to preserve their nutritional properties and rich taste. This method of preparation makes dried fruits an excellent choice for both snacking and for use in desserts and pastries. Chiri is considered a dietary product due to its low sugar content and high fiber level, but at the same time it adds sweetness and texture to yoghurts, muesli and salads, becoming a source of energy and vitamins.
🌟 Interesting fact! Fruit drying begins during the harvest season, when they reach maximum ripeness. This traditional method of processing sweet fruits allows you to preserve their natural taste and nutrients.
Lesser Known Georgian Desserts
Baklava in Georgian
Caloric content: about 400 kcal per 100 g.
Baklava is a dessert that is widely known in Eastern cuisine, but has unique features in Sakartvelo. The Georgian version uses thin layers of filo dough, spread with butter and stuffed with walnuts. After baking, the dessert is poured with a moderate amount of honey, which makes it less sweet compared to Turkish baklava. In Georgia, the sweetness is usually less pronounced, which allows you to better feel the rich nutty taste and texture of the crispy dough.
🎯 Interesting fact! Baklava in Sakartvelo is not only popular in everyday life, but also plays an important role inholidays. It is especially often prepared for Easter and other religious celebrations, when each family uses its own unique recipes, passed down from generation to generation and reflecting the richness of the traditions and culture of the region.
Nazuki
Caloric value: about 350 kcal per 100 g.
Nazuki is a traditional sweet Georgian bread that is strongly associated with family celebrations and feasts. It is made from aromatic dough with the addition of raisins, cinnamon, and sometimes cardamom, which gives it a unique taste and aroma. Nazuki is soft and airy, and its sweet, spicy aroma creates a cozy atmosphere at any celebration. Historically, this bread was especially popular in mountainous regions, where it was baked in open ovens for religious celebrations and important family events, such as weddings and the celebration of the harvest.
🎯 Nazuki has gained particular fame in the city of Surami, where it is prepared according to traditional recipes passed down from generation to generation. It is believed that this is where you can try the most authentic and delicious version of this bread, but nazuki is also available in other cities, such as Tbilisi and Batumi, where it is often served with tea or coffee. However, if you want to touch the real Georgian tradition, visiting Surami will be the perfect choice for tasting this sweet bread.
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Where
Caloric content: about 380 kcal per 100 g.
Kada cookies are a traditional Georgian treat that can become a real decoration for any table. They are dough with a filling of sweet nut cream, sugar or a mixture of nuts and honey. The peculiarity of the cookie is its crispy crust and soft, melt-in-your-mouth filling, which gives it a unique taste and texture.
Preparing such a treat requires special skill: the dough is rolled out thinly and wrapped with the filling, creating a layered structure. The most delicious dessert is traditionally served with tea or coffee, often decorated with nuts or sugar, which adds texture and flavor. Kada is great for family gatherings and holidays, and at weddings and other celebrations, these cookies symbolize the sweetness of the future life and the happiness of the newlyweds.
🤓 Interesting fact! Different regions of Georgia have their own variations of the cookie, each with its own unique ingredients and cooking methods. Some recipes include spices such as cinnamon or cardamom, which give the cake a special flavor. This dessert often becomes the centerpiece of a holiday table, emphasizing the importance of the traditions and culinary skills of the region.
Шакарлама
Caloric content: about 450 kcal per 100 g.
Shakarlama is a classic Georgian treat made from simple ingredients: flour, butter and sugar. Despite its simplicity, it has a rich taste and is ideal with tea or coffee. The cookies have a crispy texture and a golden crust, which makes them especially attractive.
📝 This is one of the oldest delicacies of Kartli, passed down from generation to generation. Cookie recipes preserve the traditions and cultural heritage of the region, making them popular at holidays and family gatherings.
Where to buy Georgian sweets?
Great places to buy Kartli sweets are traditional markets and specialty shops, where you can not only buy the delicacies, but also try them on the spot, learn about their history and even see the process of making them. These outlets offer a wide range of Georgian desserts, from churchkhela to kozinaki, and give you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique atmosphereу Georgian gastronomic culture.
Tip for tourists! Don't forget to bargain at markets - it's part of the local culture. Vendors are often willing to lower prices, especially if you buy several types of sweets. It's also worth paying attention to seasonal offers and unique dessert options, which may vary from region to region.
Some popular places to buy authentic Georgian sweets:
Boni Food Market (Pareja)
The Boni (Parehi) food market in Batumi attracts attention with its rich assortment of fresh products and traditional Georgian sweets. Here you can find churchkhela, tklapi, kozinaki and other treats at affordable prices, often lower than in large stores.
Deserter (Borjomi) bazaar
The Deserter Market in Tbilisi is famous for its wide selection of Georgian sweets, such as churchkhela, tklapi and kozinaki. Prices here are often lower than in stores, and the selection is varied.
Badagi (AgroHub Batumi)
The Badagi shop in Agrohub Batumi invites you to discover the world of traditional Georgian sweets, including the famous churchkhela. Next to the Marani wine shop, Badagi offers the perfect combination of sweets and wines for a complete gastronomic pleasure. Try churchkhela prepared according to ancient recipes and other national delicacies.
Churchkhela House
Churchkhela House is a great place in Tbilisi to try fresh churchkhela and other traditional Georgian sweets. Here you can enjoy a variety of desserts prepared according to classic recipes. The cafe offers a wide selection of delicacies for purchase, making it an ideal place to buy souvenirs and gastronomic gifts.
Pelamushi
The Pelamushi Sweet Shop on King Parnavaz Street in Batumi offers a wide range of traditional Georgian desserts, including pelamushi, churchkhela, and kozinaki. It is a great place to buy sweets as souvenirs.
Nugbari
The Nugbari shop offers traditional Georgian sweets, including churchkhela, kozinaki and fruit paper. The products are made from natural ingredients according to ancient recipes. The main shop is located in Tbilisi, and the products are available both in Georgia and abroad.
Prices for traditional Georgian sweet dishes
Prices for sweets in Georgia vary depending on the region and place of purchase. In the capital of the country, you will find a wide selection of sweet treats, where prices may be higher. In Batumi and Kutaisi, prices are often lower, but the quality remains high. We suggest you familiarize yourself with the approximate prices for popular Georgian treats:
- Kozinaki: In Tbilisi, the price starts from 15 lari per 100 grams, and in Batumi and Kutaisi you can find them for 5 to 10 lari per pack. Prices depend on the quality of the nuts and honey.
- Pelamushi: This dessert can be bought in Tbilisi for 20-40 GEL per serving. In Batumi and Kutaisi the price varies from 3 to 6 GEL per serving, depending on the quality of the grape juice.
- Tatara: In Tbilisi, its price ranges from 25 to 50 lari per serving. In other cities, such as Batumi and Kutaisi, the cost can be from 3 to 6 lari per serving.
- Churchkhela: In Tbilisi, churchkhela costs from 10 to 25 lari per piece. In Batumi and Kutaisi, you can find it for 2 to 5 lari per piece, depending on the nuts and grape juice.
- Tklapi: In Tbilisi the price is from 15 to 30 lari per pack. In Batumi and Kutaisi the price can be from 1 to 3 lari per layer.
- Chiri (dried fruits): In Tbilisi they cost from 20 to 50 lari per 100 grams. In Batumi and Kutaisi prices start from 5 to 10 lari per 100 grams.
- Nazuki (sweet bread): In Tbilisi, this dessert can be found for 5-7 lari per loaf. In other cities, such as Batumi and Kutaisi, the price is usually in the same range.
- Baklava: In Tbilisi, baklava costs from 30 to 60 lari per serving, while in Batumi and Kutaisi it can be purchased for 10 lari per serving.
- Shakarlama: In Tbilisi, the price of shakarlama varies from 15 to 25 lari per pack. In Batumi and Kutaisi, you can find these cookies for 5 to 10 lari per pack.
- Where: In Tbilisi, kada costs 25 to 40 lari per serving. In Batumi and Kutaisi, these cookies can be found for 10 to 20 lari per serving.
🔍Interesting fact! Churchkhela prices can vary significantly depending on the nuts used (walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds) and fruit paste (grapes, pomegranate).
How do Georgian desserts differ from sweets from other countries?
Georgian sweets are distinguished by the peculiarities of ingredients and cooking methods. Here are some key differences:
- Eco-friendly and natural: Sakartvelo desserts are often made from local, organic ingredients. Natural honey, nuts and fresh fruit make them less processed and more environmentally friendly than industrial sweets in other countries.
- Historical heritage: These treats are often prepared according to ancient recipes passed down from generation to generation. This commitment to tradition gives the sweets a special taste and uniqueness that is difficult to find in other regions.
- Nutritional value: Georgian desserts often use nuts, honey, and real fruits, making them not only delicious but also nutritious. Unlike Western sweets, which can be high in sugar and artificial additives, Georgian treats usually have more natural ingredients.
- Seasonality: Many Kartli sweets are prepared taking into account seasonal products. For example, churchkhela and muraba are made from fresh fruits picked in certain seasons, which gives these desserts a special taste and aroma.
- Unique recipes: Georgian cuisine is famous for its unusual combinations of flavors and textures. For example, nuts with grape juice in churchkhela or corn flour in pelamushi create unique taste sensations that are difficult to find in desserts from other countries.
Recommendations for tourists on choosing Georgian sweets
If you are visiting Georgia for the first time and want to enjoy local sweets, we suggest you read some tips on choosing desserts:
- Churchkhela is a must-try treat for any tourist. It is especially recommended to try it in the fall, when the fresh grape harvest makes these sweets especially tasty. Churchkhela can be different, depending on the region: Kakhetian with walnuts or Imeretian with hazelnuts.
- Kozinaki is an ideal choice for those who love crispy sweets with nuts and honey. This dessert has a rich taste and high calorie content, which makes it a great snack.
- Tklapi is a sour fruit pastille that will appeal to lovers of light and less caloric desserts. Try tklapi made from pomegranate or cherry plum for a special taste.
- Pelamushi is a dessert made from grape juice, which is especially well received in the cold season. It is recommended to try it with nuts.
- Mzhave is a light and refreshing dessert made from fruits with honey. Perfect for those who want to enjoy a fresh taste. Baklava – If you like sweet and rich desserts, baklava is a great choice. The Georgian version has a special taste and texture.
Russian-Georgian dictionary of sweets
- კოზინაქი (Kozinaki) - a nut delicacy.
In Georgian, "კოზინაქი" refers to a sweet made from nuts and honey, usually in the form of bars or slabs. It is a popular treat often served with tea or as a snack.
- პელამუშის (Pelamushi) - a grape dessert.
The word "პელამუშის" refers to a sweet made from thick grape juice, poured into molds and sometimes topped with nuts. Pelamushi has a distinctive sweet taste and is popular among grape dessert lovers.
- ტატარა (Tatara) — layered pastry.
In Georgian, "ტატარა" refers to a layered pastry with various fillings, such as nuts and dried fruits. It is often found in pastry shops and cafes.
- ჩურჩხელა (Churchkhela) — a nut treat in grape juice.
"ჩურჩხელა" is a traditional Georgian treat where nuts are strung on a thread and dipped in thick grape juice. Churchkhela is often part of Georgian holidays and home feasts.
- ტყლაპი (Tklapi) - fruit pastila.
The word "ტყლაპი" refers to fruit pastila made from grape juice or other fruits and dried to a hard layer. This dessert is popular among lovers of light and sour sweets.
- ჩირი (Chiri) - dried fruits.
"ჩირი" is dried fruits such as apricots or plums, sometimes with added sugar. Chiri is a healthy and tasty snack.
- პახლავა (Baklava in Georgian) - a pastry sweet with nuts.
"პახლავა" in Georgian refers to a puff pastry sweet filled with nuts and honey. It has a rich flavor and is often served at festive occasions.
- ნაზუკი (Nazuki) - sweet bread.
The word "ნაზუკი" refers to a sweet Georgian bread, often filled with nuts, raisins or fruits. Nazuki has a soft texture and a sweet taste and is usually prepared for holidays.
- კადა (Kada) - sweet cookies.
"კადა" is a sweet pastry with nuts and sugar, prepared in the form of a roll. The dessert is characterized by a crispy crust and sweet filling.
- შაქარლამა (Shakarlama) - traditional cookies.
In Georgian, "შაქარლამა" means cookies made from flour, butter and sugar. They have a rich taste and are ideal for tea parties.
Georgian sweets are not just desserts, but a real part of the country's cultural heritage, imbued with history and unique flavors. Discover the richness of Georgian sweet cuisine, try a variety of delicacies and enjoy unique flavor combinations. Don't miss the opportunity to try these amazing sweets during your visit to sunny Georgia and bring home a piece of this sweet heritage!
Here are some reviews of sweets from the sunny region of Georgia:
Feedback from Natalia P.:
"During my trip to Georgia, I tried churchkhela and was absolutely delighted! This incredible combination of nuts and grape juice turned out to be not only delicious, but also unusual. The taste is reminiscent of a sweet treat from childhood, only with a richer and deeper flavor. Churchkhela has become my favorite dessert!"
Feedback from Maxim I.:
"The kozinaki I tried at the Tbilisi market were simply amazing. The nuts and honey make them perfect for a snack. I tried several types and was impressed by their crunchy texture and sweet taste. This is a treat everyone should try!"
Feedback from Elena S.:
"Tklapi was a perfect choice for me, as I prefer sweets with less calories. This fruit pastila was light and tasty, and the sour taste of the pomegranate added a pleasant note. Tklapi went well with tea, and I will definitely take it with me as a souvenir."
Feedback from Dmitry V.:
"Pelamushi pleasantly surprised me with its unique grape flavor. This dessert was incredibly soft and sweet, with the addition of nuts. It turned out to be a great end to any meal. Now I understand why pelamushi is so popular in Georgia."
Feedback from Irina K.:
"When I tried shakarlama, I was amazed by its sweet and rich taste. These cookies were a great addition to our tea. Their simplicity and richness of taste reflect Georgian culture. I will definitely try other Georgian sweets next time!"
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
❓ What are the most popular Georgian desserts worth trying?
💡 Popular Georgian sweets include churchkhela, kozinaki, pelamushi, tatara, tklapi and chiri, which are distinguished by their naturalness and rich history.
❓ What is churchkhela and how is it prepared?
💡 Churchkhela is a delicacy consisting of nuts strung on a thread and coated with grape paste (tatara). The nuts are dipped in the paste several times and then dried in the sun.
❓ Is there sugar in Georgian desserts?
💡 Some Georgian sweets, such as churchkhela and pelamushi, contain only natural sugars from grape juice. However, modern versions of these dishes may have additional sweeteners added.
❓ Which Georgian desserts are low in calories?
💡 Tklapi is one of the low-calorie Georgian desserts, which is a dried fruit pastille with a caloric content of about 160 kcal per 100 g. Chiri (dried fruit) is also a relatively dietary product.
❓Where can you buy real Georgian sweets?
💡Georgian sweets can be purchased at the markets of Tbilisi, Kutaisi, Telavi and other large cities. You can also find sweets in beautiful gift packaging in supermarkets.
❓ What makes kozinaki unique?
💡 Kozinaki is a honey and nut dessert that is a symbol of good luck and abundance in Georgian culture. They are especially popular during the New Year holidays.
❓ How long can Georgian sweets such as churchkhela and tklapi be stored?
💡Churchkhela can be stored for several months under the right conditions, as it contains natural preservatives - grape juice and nuts. Tklapi also lasts a long time due to its dry structure.
❓ Which Georgian dessert is suitable for children?
💡 Pelamushi is a grape pudding that is loved by both children and adults. It is a sweet and nutritious dessert, rich in natural sugars and vitamins.
❓ Is it possible to bring Georgian sweets home as a souvenir?
💡Yes, many Georgian sweets, such as churchkhela, tklapi and kozinaki, keep well and make great souvenirs. It is best to buy them in supermarkets or markets, where they are packaged for long-term storage.
❓What are the traditions of serving desserts in Georgia?
💡 Georgian desserts are served for various holidays and important family events, such as weddings and New Year. For example, kozinaki is traditionally prepared for New Year as a symbol of prosperity.
❓ What dessert is especially popular in winter?
💡 In winter, kozinaki and churchkhela are especially popular in Georgia. These desserts, rich in nuts and honey, give energy and warmth in the cold season.
❓ Are there any gluten free Georgian desserts?
💡 Yes, many Georgian desserts such as churchkhela, pelamushi and tatara are gluten-free as they are made with grape juice and nuts.
❓ What is the sweetest Georgian dessert?
💡 Tatara and churchkhela can be considered one of the sweetest desserts due to the content of natural grape sugar and honey. However, the sweetness of these desserts is natural and not excessive.
❓ Are there any desserts that are served as appetizers?
Tklapi is often used not only as a dessert, but also as an appetizer. Its sour taste goes well with meat dishes and cheeses.
❓ What desserts are best for gifts?
💡 Churchkhela, kozinaki and tklapi are ideal gift options. They keep well, look attractive and represent the real taste of Georgia.
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