Mutaabeli

Mutaabeli is a traditional Georgian dish, a type of appetizer or dip. It is primarily made from eggplant that is roasted or grilled until tender, then mashed or finely chopped. The characteristic flavor comes from the addition of finely chopped walnuts, garlic, and herbs such as cilantro and parsley. Other common seasonings include coriander, fenugreek, and sometimes a touch of vinegar or lemon juice for acidity.

The preparation involves cooking the eggplant until its skin is charred and the flesh is soft and smoky. The eggplant is then peeled and the pulp is combined with the other ingredients. The texture of mutaabeli can vary, ranging from a smooth paste to a chunkier consistency, depending on how finely the eggplant and other ingredients are processed.

Mutaabeli is typically served cold or at room temperature as part of a meze platter, alongside other Georgian appetizers like badrijani nigvzit (eggplant rolls with walnut filling) and pkhali. It is often garnished with fresh herbs or pomegranate seeds. The dish is valued for its rich, savory flavor profile, combining the smokiness of the eggplant with the nutty taste of walnuts and the aromatic herbs. It is a popular item in Georgian cuisine, enjoyed both in restaurants and as a homemade dish.