Indulge in the culinary magic of Georgia with Badrijani Nigvzit, a traditional dish that tantalizes the taste buds and awakens the senses. Delicate slices of eggplant are lovingly rolled around a rich and creamy walnut paste, creating a symphony of flavors and textures. Each bite is a journey through the lush landscapes and vibrant culture of Georgia, where culinary traditions are celebrated with passion and pride. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer or a main course, these eggplant rolls offer a delightful fusion of savory and nutty notes, leaving a lasting impression that beckons for another taste of Georgia's gastronomic treasures.

Ingredients:

For the Eggplant Rolls:

• 2 large eggplants
• Salt
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Walnut Paste:

• 1 cup walnuts
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon vinegar (red wine vinegar or white wine vinegar)
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Eggplants:

1- Wash the eggplants and slice them lengthwise into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick.

2- Sprinkle salt over the eggplant slices and let them sit for about 15-20 minutes. This helps to draw out excess moisture and bitterness from the eggplants.

3- After 20 minutes, rinse the eggplant slices under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.

Fry the Eggplant Slices:

1- Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.

2- Once the oil is hot, add the eggplant slices in batches and fry them until they are soft and golden brown on both sides. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side.

3- Remove the fried eggplant slices from the pan and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat until all the eggplant slices are fried.

Make the Walnut Paste:

1- In a food processor, combine the walnuts, minced garlic, vinegar, water, ground coriander, and a pinch of salt.

2- Pulse the mixture until it forms a smooth paste. You may need to scrape down the sides of the food processor bowl a few times to ensure everything is well blended.

3- Taste the walnut paste and adjust the seasoning if necessary by adding more salt or vinegar.

Assemble the Rolls:

1- Take one fried eggplant slice and place a small spoonful of walnut paste at one end.

2- Carefully roll up the eggplant slice, enclosing the walnut paste inside. Repeat with the remaining eggplant slices and walnut paste.

Serve:

1- Arrange the eggplant rolls on a serving platter.

2- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro.

3- Badrijani Nigvzit can be served warm or at room temperature as an appetizer or a side dish. Enjoy the delightful flavors of Georgia!

This recipe captures the essence of Georgian cuisine with its combination of tender eggplant and flavorful walnut paste, making it a perfect addition to any meal or gathering.

Nutritional Values :

Eggplants (2 large):

• Calories: 100 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 24 g
• Fiber: 10 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Fat: 0.4 g
• Vitamin C: 10 mg
• Vitamin K: 3 mcg
• Folate: 22 mcg
• Potassium: 780 mg

benefits

• Rich in dietary fiber, promoting digestive health.
• Low in calories and fat, suitable for weight management.
• High in antioxidants, protecting cells from damage.
• Contains vitamins C and K, supporting immune function and bone health.
• Good source of potassium, essential for heart health and muscle function.

Walnuts (1 cup):

• Calories: 765 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 16 g
• Fiber: 8 g
• Protein: 18 g
• Fat: 74 g
• Omega-3 fatty acids: 2.5 g
• Omega-6 fatty acids: 38 g
• Vitamin E: 4.3 mg
• Magnesium: 185 mg
• Phosphorus: 440 mg

benefits

• High in omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for heart health and reducing inflammation.
• Rich in antioxidants, protecting against oxidative stress and chronic diseases.
• Provides protein and fiber, aiding in satiety and digestion.
• Contains vitamins E and B6, supporting immune function and energy metabolism.
• Good source of minerals like magnesium and phosphorus, important for bone health and energy production.

Garlic (2 cloves):

• Calories: 10 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 2 g
• Fiber: 0.1 g
• Protein: 0.5 g
• Fat: 0 g
• Vitamin C: 1.2 mg
• Vitamin B6: 0.1 mg
• Manganese: 0.1 mg

benefits

• Possesses antibacterial and antiviral properties, supporting immune function.
• Contains allicin, a compound with potential anti-inflammatory effects.
• May help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, promoting heart health.
• Rich in antioxidants, protecting against oxidative damage and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
• Some studies suggest it may have anticancer properties.

Vinegar (1 tablespoon):

• Calories: 3 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 0.1 g
• Protein: 0 g
• Fat: 0 g
• Acetic Acid: 1.2 g

benefits

• Helps stabilize blood sugar levels, beneficial for diabetes management.
• May aid in weight loss by promoting feelings of fullness and reducing appetite.
• Contains acetic acid, which may improve digestion and nutrient absorption.
• Has antimicrobial properties, potentially inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria.
• May support heart health by lowering cholesterol and blood pressure levels.

Ground Coriander (1 tablespoon):

• Calories: 5 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 1 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 0.2 g
• Fat: 0.3 g
• Vitamin C: 1 mg
• Iron: 0.1 mg

benefits

• Contains antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and prevent chronic diseases.
• Rich in dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and aiding in weight management.
• Provides small amounts of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and iron.
• Adds flavor without adding significant calories or fat to dishes.
• May have antimicrobial properties, helping to prevent foodborne illnesses.

Please note that these values are approximate and may vary based on factors such as the specific variety of the ingredients and the method of preparation.