Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups of apple juice
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1 cup of flour
- 1 cup of walnuts
- 1 tablespoon of cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
Special Equipment Needed:
- Parchment paper
- Skewers
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together the apple juice, sugar, flour, and cinnamon until a smooth batter forms.
2. Add the walnuts to the batter and mix until they are fully coated.
3. Cut a sheet of parchment paper into a long rectangle and place it on a flat surface.
4. Using a spoon or your hands, form the batter into a long, thin log shape on the parchment paper.
5. Carefully insert a skewer through the center of the log, making sure it is secure.
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 until all of the batter is used up.
7. Brush each log with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
8. Hang the skewers in a cool, dry place and allow them to dry for 2-3 days, until they are firm and no longer sticky.
9. Once the churchkhela are dry, remove the skewers and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 2-3 days
Temperature:
- Room temperature
Serving size:
- Makes approximately 12-15 pieces
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 200 per piece
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Almond or hazelnut milk can be used instead of apple juice.
- Brown sugar can be used instead of white sugar.
- Pecans or almonds can be used instead of walnuts.
Variations:
- Add dried fruit, such as raisins or cranberries, to the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Use different spices, such as ginger or nutmeg, to change the flavor profile.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the batter is fully coated around the nuts to prevent them from falling off during the drying process.
- Hang the skewers in a cool, dry place to prevent mold from forming.
- Store the churchkhela in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Storage Instructions:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating Instructions:
- Churchkhela is typically eaten as a snack and does not need to be reheated.
Presentation Ideas:
- Arrange the churchkhela on a platter and garnish with fresh fruit or herbs.
Garnishes:
- Fresh fruit, such as sliced apples or pears.
- Fresh herbs, such as mint or basil.
Pairings:
- Serve with a cup of tea or coffee.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- None needed.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the batter is too thin, add more flour.
- If the batter is too thick, add more apple juice.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to hang the churchkhela in a cool, dry place to prevent mold from forming.
Food History:
- Churchkhela is a traditional Georgian candy made from nuts and grape juice.
Flavor Profiles:
- Sweet, nutty, and cinnamon-spiced.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a snack or dessert.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
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Region: Georgia
Taste: Sweet, Cinnamon, Fruity, Nutty, Cinnamon-Y