Khinkali Recipe

Khinkali are delightful, juicy dumplings originating from Georgia, known for their unique shape and flavorful filling. The dumpling dough envelops a savory mixture of seasoned meats, resulting in a deliciously satisfying bite. When cooked, they release an aromatic broth as you take that first delicious taste. These hearty parcels are often enjoyed as a main course, offering a comforting experience during mealtime. Crafting khinkali is an art; it requires finesse to shape the dumplings properly, ensuring the filling is secure within the dough. The dough is tender but sturdy enough to hold the rich filling without tearing. Once cooked, these dumplings are typically garnished with fresh herbs, adding a burst of fresh flavor. They are ideal for gatherings, providing a warming, communal dining experience. Relished in their traditional form, khinkali can also be crafted to cater to various dietary preferences. Paired with a fresh salad or crunchy vegetables, they make for a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 kg flour
• 400 g water
• 20 g salt

Filling Ingredients

• 1 kg minced beef
• 350 g fatty minced pork
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• Coriander
• Pepper
• Salt

Preparation Time

Total: 90 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start by mixing the minced beef and pork in a large bowl.
2. Add the finely chopped onion to the meat mixture.
3. Incorporate coriander, salt, and pepper, ensuring all ingredients are well combined to form a uniform filling.
4. In a separate bowl, combine flour with water and salt to prepare the dough.
5. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic, then let it rest for about 20 minutes.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface until it's about 2-3 mm thick.
7. Using a round cutter, cut the dough into circles approximately 8-10 cm in diameter.
8. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough circle.
9. Gather the edges of the dough circle around the filling, pinching them together at the top to form a pouch.
10. Ensure the dumplings are sealed properly to avoid any leakage during cooking.
11. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
12. Add the dumplings to the boiling water, being careful not to overcrowd the pot.
13. Cook the khinkali for approximately 10 minutes or until they float to the surface.
14. Once cooked, remove them from the pot with a slotted spoon.
15. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with freshly chopped coriander or parsley if desired.
16. Serve hot and enjoy the juicy and flavorful dumplings.

Tips

• For a juicier filling, add a bit of cold water or broth to the meat mixture.
• Be sure not to overfill the dough circles, as it might cause them to burst open.
• Practice makes perfect when it comes to pinching the dumpling tops; keep trying different techniques to find what works best for you.
• If you prefer less spicy food, adjust the pepper quantity to your taste.

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 per serving
• Protein: 18g
• Fats: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 38g

Variations

• For a vegetarian option, replace the meat with mushrooms and spinach or a cheese and herb mixture.
• For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend for the dough.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh tomato and cucumber salad.
• Serve alongside a yogurt dipping sauce for added creaminess.
• Enjoy with a chilled glass of white wine or a light beer.

Best Places

• Georgian House - Known for its authentic khinkali. Location: 14 Tabidze St, Tbilisi, Georgia.
• Khinkali Factory - Famous for a wide variety of khinkali fillings. Location: 24a Kreschatik St, Kyiv, Ukraine.
• Zurek - Offers a modern twist on traditional khinkali. Location: 102 Rotermann Quarter, Tallinn, Estonia.
• Khinkalnaya - A beloved local haunt for khinkali lovers. Location: 12 Turgenevskaya St, Moscow, Russia.
• Tiflisi - Combines classic flavors with a cozy setting. Location: 33 Mesrop Mashtots Ave, Yerevan, Armenia.
• Old Tbilisi Garden - Delivers a true taste of Georgia in NYC. Location: 174 Bleecker St, New York, USA.
• Caucasia - Popular for its extensive Georgian menu. Location: 7 Slipchenka St, Minsk, Belarus.
• Château Mukhrani - Enjoy khinkali amidst a beautiful vineyard estate. Location: Mukhrani Village, Mtskheta, Georgia.
• Shemoikhede Genatsvale - Offers a range of Georgian dishes including khinkali. Location: 44 Shota Rustaveli Ave, Batumi, Georgia.
• Georgian Wine House - Known for its wine and khinkali pairings. Location: 21 Yuriy Fedkovych St, Lviv, Ukraine.