Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Georgia with Mtsvadi, the traditional Georgian shish kebab that ignites the senses and transports you to the heart of Caucasus cuisine. Made from succulent chunks of marinated meat, typically pork or beef, skewered and grilled to perfection over an open flame, Mtsvadi embodies the essence of Georgian culinary tradition.

Prepared with a secret blend of spices and marinades, each tender bite of Mtsvadi offers a burst of savory goodness that is both rich and satisfying. Whether enjoyed as a hearty main course or shared among friends and family during festive gatherings, Mtsvadi holds a special place in Georgian culture, symbolizing warmth, hospitality, and culinary excellence.

Experience the timeless charm of Georgia's culinary heritage with Mtsvadi, where every bite is a journey to the lush landscapes and vibrant flavors of the Caucasus region.

Ingredients:

• 1 kg (2.2 lbs) of pork or beef, preferably from the shoulder or loin, cut into 2-inch chunks
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup of white wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup of olive oil
• 2 teaspoons of ground coriander
• 2 teaspoons of ground marigold (optional, but traditional)
• 1 teaspoon of ground fenugreek
• 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• Skewers, preferably metal or wooden skewers soaked in water for at least 30 minutes

Instructions:

1- In a large bowl, combine the chopped onions, minced garlic, white wine vinegar, olive oil, ground coriander, ground marigold (if using), ground fenugreek, ground black pepper, and salt. Mix well to create the marinade.

2- Add the chunks of meat to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the meat to absorb the marinade.

3- When ready to cook, remove the marinated meat from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes.

4- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you're using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning.

5- Thread the marinated meat onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking.

6- Once the grill is hot, place the skewers of meat on the grill grate, directly over the heat source. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is browned and cooked through.

7- Remove the skewers from the grill and let the Mtsvadi rest for a few minutes before serving.

8- Serve the Georgia Mtsvadi hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, and accompanied by traditional Georgian sides such as tkemali sauce (plum sauce) and lavash (thin Georgian flatbread).

Enjoy your delicious Georgia Mtsvadi, a true taste of Georgian culinary tradition!

Nutritional Values:

Pork or Beef (1 kg / 2.2 lbs):

• Calories: Approximately 2000-2400 kcal
• Protein: Approximately 160-200 grams
• Fat: Approximately 140-180 grams
• Carbohydrates: Negligible (assuming no added carbohydrates)

benefits

• Excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Provides essential nutrients such as iron, zinc, and B vitamins, important for overall health and energy metabolism

Onions (2 large):

• Calories: Approximately 100 kcal
• Protein: Approximately 2 grams
• Fat: Approximately 0 grams
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 25 grams
• Fiber: Approximately 4 grams

benefits

• Rich in antioxidants like quercetin, which may help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
• Contains prebiotic fibers that support gut health and promote healthy digestion.
• May have antibacterial properties and contribute to immune function.

Garlic (4 cloves):

• Calories: Approximately 20 kcal
• Protein: Approximately 1 gram
• Fat: Approximately 0 grams
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 5 grams
• Fiber: Approximately 0.3 grams

benefits

• Known for its potent medicinal properties, including boosting the immune system and reducing the risk of common illnesses.
• Contains compounds like allicin, which may help lower blood pressure and improve heart health.
• Has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

Olive Oil (1/4 cup):

• Calories: Approximately 480 kcal
• Fat: Approximately 54 grams
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 0 grams
• Protein: Approximately 0 grams

benefits

• Rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which may help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Contains antioxidants such as vitamin E and polyphenols, which protect cells from oxidative damage and inflammation.
• May have anti-inflammatory effects and contribute to improved cognitive function.

White Wine Vinegar (1/4 cup):

• Calories: Approximately 16 kcal
• Fat: Approximately 0 grams
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 0.5 grams
• Protein: Approximately 0 grams

benefits

• Provides acetic acid, which may aid in digestion by promoting the production of digestive enzymes.
• Has been associated with potential blood sugar control and improved insulin sensitivity.
• Contains compounds that may help reduce cholesterol levels and support heart health.

Please note that these values are rough estimates and may vary based on factors such as specific brands of ingredients and cooking methods. Additionally, the nutritional content may change if additional ingredients or sauces are used in serving. If you require more precise nutritional information, you may want to use a nutritional calculator or consult a registered dietitian.