Description: Indulge in the rich flavors of the Georgian countryside with our authentic Georgia Elarji recipe. Made from finely ground cornmeal and a generous portion of melted cheese, this traditional dish embodies warmth and comfort in every bite. With its creamy texture and subtle nuttiness, Georgia Elarji offers a delightful harmony of rustic ingredients and culinary mastery. Perfect as a side dish or a standalone comfort food, experience the taste of Georgia with this soul-satisfying delicacy.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cornmeal
• 4 cups water
• 2 cups grated sulguni cheese (substitute with mozzarella or another semi-soft cheese if unavailable)
• 4 tablespoons butter
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1- In a medium-sized saucepan, bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.

2- Slowly pour in the cornmeal, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Reduce the heat to low.

3- Continue to cook the cornmeal, stirring frequently, until it thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.

4- Once the cornmeal is cooked, add the grated cheese and butter to the saucepan. Stir well until the cheese and butter are fully melted and incorporated into the cornmeal.

5- Season the mixture with salt to taste, keeping in mind that the cheese already adds some saltiness.

6- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the Elarji rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the mixture to thicken slightly.

7- Serve the Georgia Elarji warm, either as a side dish or as a main course. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.

8- Enjoy your taste of Georgian comfort food!

This recipe typically serves 4-6 people as a side dish. Feel free to adjust the quantities according to your preferences and the number of servings needed.

Nutritional Values :

Cornmeal (2 cups):

• Calories: 760 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 168 g
• Protein: 16 g
• Fat: 4 g
• Fiber: 16 g

benefits

• Rich source of carbohydrates, providing energy for the body.
• Contains dietary fiber, which supports digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
• Good source of vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, iron, and magnesium, which are essential for overall health.

Water (4 cups):

• Water has no significant caloric content or macronutrients.

benefits

• Essential for hydration and proper bodily functions.
• Aids in digestion, nutrient absorption, and waste removal.
• Helps regulate body temperature and maintain electrolyte balance.

Sulguni Cheese (2 cups grated):

• Calories: 640 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 4 g
• Protein: 44 g
• Fat: 48 g
• Calcium: 1,600 mg (approximately 160% of the Daily Value)

benefits

• Excellent source of protein, which is crucial for muscle growth and repair.
• Contains calcium and phosphorus, promoting strong bones and teeth.
• Provides essential fatty acids, contributing to heart health and brain function.

Butter (4 tablespoons):

• Calories: 408 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 0 g
• Protein: 0.4 g
• Fat: 46 g
• Saturated Fat: 29 g

benefits

• Rich source of fat-soluble vitamins like A, E, and K, which are important for vision, skin health, and blood clotting.
• Contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a type of fatty acid with potential health benefits such as weight management and reducing inflammation.
• Adds flavor and richness to dishes, enhancing their taste and appeal.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific brands and types of ingredients used. Additionally, the nutritional values provided are for the entire recipe, so if you divide the recipe into servings, you would need to adjust the values accordingly.