Georgia: A paradise for vegetarians


With its Mongolian influences and slew of breads, the young country has much to offer

Georgia and khinkali are often uttered in the same breath. The country’s poster dish, khinkalis are essentially dumplings, and eating them sits right up there with strolling through the charming streets of the capital city, Tbilisi.

Popularly believed to have been introduced to the country by Mongol invaders in the 13th Century, khinkalis are like everything else in the country: familiar yet very unique. Situated along the ancient Silk Road, over centuries, traders, invaders and armies have all passed through Georgia, each shaping its rich history and culture, but perhaps their influences are most clearly reflected in its cuisine. Eating dumplings similar to xiaolongbao, popular hundreds of miles away in China, is a clear affirmation of this. Resembling a herbal potli often used in Ayurvedic massages, khinkalis are meant to be dusted with pepper and then eaten. Apart from minced beef and pork-stuffed khinkalis, vegetarians can choose from stuffings of mushrooms, potatoes and cheese.

Having gained independence as recently as 1991, when the former USSR broke up, Georgians are a fiercely proud lot, eager for the world to see their country’s immense natural beauty, taste their fabulous food, and partake in their customs and traditions.Read more

Source web page :The Hindu


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