Coffee Sweetened with Churchkhela

The Irresistible Allure of Georgia’s Nutty Treat

I’ll admit, when I first heard about this so-called “Georgian Snickers bar” called churchkhela, I was a bit skeptical. I mean, how could anything compare to the almighty Snickers – that perfect fusion of nougat, caramel, and peanuts, all coated in chocolate? But as I delved deeper into the history and tradition behind this unique confection, I found myself utterly captivated.

Churchkhela, it turns out, is as much a part of Georgian culture as chai is to India or tiramisu is to Italy. This traditional candy has been a beloved staple in the Caucasus region for centuries, with records of its production dating back as far as the 4th century AD.

The Ancient Art of Churchkhela-Making

The process of making churchkhela is truly a labor of love. It all starts with the carefully selected nuts – usually walnuts, though hazelnuts and almonds are also common. These are painstakingly threaded by hand onto long strings or ropes, creating a visually striking display.

But the real magic happens when the nut-laden ropes are then dipped into a thick, syrupy liquid made from grape juice or fruit extracts. As this “jelly” coating dries over the course of several weeks, it forms a protective shell around the nuts, locking in their rich, nutty flavor.

Anthony Perry describes the experience of tasting churchkhela for the first time: “I was surprised by its unique flavor profile. The nuts provided a richness balanced by the tartness from the grape or fruit jelly. Beneath the outer shell lay a chewy, nutty center that was both comforting and satisfying to eat.”

It’s a far cry from the mass-produced, artificially flavored candy bars we’re so used to. Churchkhela is a true labor of love, crafted with traditional methods passed down through generations. And the end result is a confection that’s both deeply satisfying and undeniably unique.

Churchkhela vs. Snickers: A Tale of Two Nutty Treats

Now, I know what you’re thinking – how does churchkhela stack up against the beloved Snickers bar? Well, let’s take a closer look:

While the two treats may seem worlds apart, they share a common purpose – to satisfy our collective craving for a delicious, nut-based confection. Snickers may reign supreme in the global candy market, but churchkhela has a rich cultural legacy and a devoted following all its own.

As one Turkish confectioner puts it, “Churchkhela is undoubtedly an iconic food in Georgian culture. It has been a traditional sweet snack in the country for centuries.” Even during the Soviet occupation, churchkhela production was designated as one of Georgia’s most important industries, due to its cultural significance.

Discovering the Charms of Churchkhela

So, the next time your sweet tooth starts clamoring for attention, consider venturing beyond the familiar confines of the Snickers bar and exploring the world of churchkhela. Who knows, you might just discover a new favorite that’s every bit as satisfying – but with a distinctly Georgian twist.

And if you happen to find yourself in Brooklyn, be sure to stop by Georgian Coffee House – they’re sure to have a selection of authentic, hand-crafted churchkhela that’ll transport your taste buds straight to the heart of the Caucasus.

As for me, I can’t wait to see what other delightful surprises the world of Georgian cuisine has in store. After all, who knows what other cultural confections are just waiting to be discovered? One thing’s for certain – I’ll be keeping an open mind (and an empty stomach) for whatever comes next.

So, fellow adventurers, let’s raise a cup of fragrant, spice-infused Georgian coffee and toast to the enduring allure of churchkhela – a delicious piece of history, one bite at a time.