Badrijani

Badrijani is a traditional Georgian dish made primarily from fried eggplant slices, walnut paste, and garlic. It is a popular appetizer and is often served cold or at room temperature. The eggplant is typically sliced lengthwise, salted to remove excess moisture, then fried or sometimes grilled until softened and lightly browned. The walnut paste, a key component, is a thick, savory mixture of ground walnuts, garlic, vinegar (often wine vinegar), herbs (such as coriander and fenugreek), and spices (including blue fenugreek and marigold). This paste is spread onto the fried eggplant slices, which are then rolled up or folded. Garnishes may include pomegranate seeds, fresh herbs like cilantro, and sometimes a drizzle of pomegranate molasses for added sweetness and tang. Regional variations exist, with some recipes incorporating different spices or adding onions to the walnut paste.