Satsivi (chicken with walnut sauce)

Discover the rich and savory flavors of traditional Georgian cuisine with this Satsivi recipe. Tender chicken is slow-cooked and smothered in a creamy walnut sauce made with aromatic spices like turmeric, coriander, and cumin. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this dish will transport your taste buds to the heart of Georgia. Easy to follow and absolutely delicious!

08 May 2025
Cook time 70 min
Prep time 60 min

Ingredients:

3 lb whole chicken
2 carrots
1 onion
3/4 cup walnuts
2 garlic cloves
2 tbsp vinegar
2 tbsp dried coriander
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp curry powder
1 tsp ground cumin
Satsivi (chicken with walnut sauce)

Satsivi is a classic Georgian dish featuring tender chicken in a rich and flavorful walnut sauce. This traditional recipe combines aromatic spices with the nutty richness of walnuts, creating a delectable feast that is perfect for special occasions or a comforting family meal. Follow the steps below to prepare a delicious Satsivi that will surely impress your guests.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Rinse the whole chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Place the chicken in a large pot and cover it with water. Add the roughly chopped carrots and quartered onion.
2. Cook the Chicken:
- Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 45 to 60 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the meat is tender.
- Occasionally skim off any foam that rises to the surface while cooking.
3. Remove the Chicken:
- Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool. Reserve the cooking broth.
- Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, remove the skin and bones, and shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
4. Prepare the Walnut Sauce:
- In a food processor, combine the walnuts and minced garlic. Pulse until the mixture becomes a coarse paste.
- To the walnut-garlic mixture, add the vinegar, dried coriander, turmeric powder, curry powder, and ground cumin. Pulse to combine.
- Gradually add some of the reserved chicken broth, a little at a time, blending until you achieve a smooth and thick sauce consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, combine the shredded chicken with the walnut sauce.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is heated through and well-coated with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add more of the reserved chicken broth to achieve your desired consistency.
6. Serve:
- Satsivi is traditionally served cold or at room temperature, but it can also be enjoyed warm. Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley if desired.
7. Enjoy!
- Serve the satsivi with your favorite sides, such as rice, fresh bread, or vegetables.

Tips:

- Roast the walnuts lightly to enhance their flavor before grinding them for the sauce.

- Let the chicken cool in the broth for a more tender and flavorful result.

- Use a blender to puree the walnuts into a smooth paste for a consistent sauce texture.

- Consider letting the Satsivi sit overnight in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld together even more.

- Serve Satsivi at room temperature; it enhances the dish's flavor and texture.

With its combination of savory spices and the rich, nutty sauce, Satsivi is a standout dish that embodies the essence of Georgian cuisine. Take your time to prepare it with care, and you will be rewarded with a meal that is both comforting and luxurious. Enjoy this exquisite chicken dish with family and friends, and savor the delightful flavors that come together in perfect harmony.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 910kcal
Protein 66g
Carbohydrates 12g
Fiber 4.06g
Sugar 3.71g
Fat 70g

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