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Spinach Pkhali

Georgian · Starter · Easy

Spinach Pkhali

Total
1 hr
Prep
55 min
Serves
6
Calories
130
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Spinach, walnuts and cilantro become small, tender Georgian bites with a vinegar tang and bright pomegranate seeds on top.

Squeezing the greens dry gives Spinach Pkhali enough structure to shape without breadcrumbs. Finely ground walnuts bind the leaves, while garlic, coriander and vinegar provide a sharp counterpoint to their earthy flavor.

Frozen spinach is convenient and consistent for this Georgian cold plate. Thaw it completely and wring it in a clean towel; excess water dulls the seasoning and makes the mixture slump on the platter.

HerbyTangyFreshMake AheadPartyVeganVegetarianGluten-freeDairy-freeEgg-freeLow-carb

Method

  1. Cook thawed spinach in a covered saucepan over medium heat for until steaming throughout. Spread on a plate and cool for .

  2. Wrap the spinach in a clean towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. Chop the dry greens finely.

  3. Pulse walnut, garlic, cilantro, red wine vinegar, ground coriander, fenugreek, salt and black pepper in a food processor until a fine, moist paste forms.

  4. Mix the walnut paste thoroughly with the spinach. Shape into 12 small balls, flatten slightly and press a shallow hollow into each.

  5. Refrigerate for to firm. Fill the hollows with pomegranate seeds just before serving.

Forkue tips

  • Ordinary ground fenugreek is stronger than Georgian blue fenugreek, so use the small amount listed rather than a generous spoonful.

Storing and reheating

Chill the shaped spinach bites in a covered container for up to 3 days. Add pomegranate seeds just before serving and let the bites lose their refrigerator chill for the fullest walnut flavor.

Kitchen gear

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Nutrition per serving, estimated

130Calories
4gProtein
6gCarbs
11gFat

Photo: salvagekat, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons (cropped and enhanced)

Spinach Pkhali: FAQ

Can I use fresh spinach?

Yes. Cook about 2 lb fresh spinach until wilted, then cool and squeeze it very dry. Aim for roughly the same compact amount of cooked greens as the frozen spinach yields.

Why will my pkhali not hold its shape?

The spinach is probably too wet or the walnuts too coarse. Squeeze the greens more firmly and grind the nuts finely enough to bind the mixture.

How do I store and reheat Spinach Pkhali?

Chill the shaped spinach bites in a covered container for up to 3 days. Add pomegranate seeds just before serving and let the bites lose their refrigerator chill for the fullest walnut flavor.

How long does Spinach Pkhali take?

About 1 hr in total: 55 min prep and 5 min cooking.

What do I need to make Spinach Pkhali?

The key ingredients are spinach, walnut, garlic, cilantro, red wine vinegar and ground coriander, plus pantry basics.

Any tips for Spinach Pkhali?

Ordinary ground fenugreek is stronger than Georgian blue fenugreek, so use the small amount listed rather than a generous spoonful.

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