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Churchkhela
Georgian Walnut Candy
A traditional Georgian candle-shaped candy made by repeatedly dipping strings of walnuts into a thickened mixture of grape juice and flour (tatara). It's a healthy and naturally sweet treat, often enjoyed during holidays.
🧂 Ingrédients
- 50 pieces Walnut halves
- 1.5 liters Grape juice (unsweetened)
- 300 g All-purpose flour
- 3 tbs Sugar (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 set Needle and strong thread
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the walnut strings: Thread walnut halves onto a strong needle and thread, creating strands of about 15-20 walnut halves each. Knot the ends to secure the walnuts. Leave about 6 inches of thread between each walnut half to ensure even coating.
- 2
Make the tatara: In a large, deep pot, heat the grape juice over medium-high heat. Vigorously stir constantly as it heats. If using sugar, add it now. Gradually whisk in the flour, a little at a time, to avoid lumps. Continue to stir vigorously as the mixture comes to a boil.
- 3
Simmer the tatara: Reduce the heat to low and continue to stir for 8-10 minutes, or until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency and no longer tastes of raw flour. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the walnuts.
- 4
First dip: Remove the tatara from the heat and let it cool slightly for about 5 minutes. Hold a string of walnuts by the top loop and dip it into the tatara, using a wooden spoon to ensure all walnuts are completely coated. Lift the string, allowing excess tatara to drip off for a few seconds.
- 5
Hang to dry: Hang the coated walnut strings from a pole or rack in a well-ventilated area. Allow them to dry for 24 hours.
- 6
Second dip and drying: After 24 hours, repeat the dipping process with the remaining tatara (reheat if necessary). Hang the churchkhela to dry for another 3-4 days, or until the coating is firm and no longer sticky to the touch.
💡 Conseils de pro
- ✓Ensure the grape juice is unsweetened for a more traditional flavor.
- ✓If the tatara becomes too thick, add a little more grape juice or water.
- ✓Drying is crucial; ensure good air circulation to prevent mold.
✨ Idées de variations
Inspiration pour votre propre version de cette recette
- Hazelnuts can be used instead of or in addition to walnuts.
- Other fruit juices like pomegranate can be used, though grape is traditional.