Print

Authentic Georgian Churchkhela Recipe Easy Homemade Walnut Pomegranate Candles

authentic georgian churchkhela recipe - featured image
Print Recipe

Churchkhela is a traditional Georgian candy made by threading walnuts on a string and dipping them repeatedly in thickened pomegranate juice, then drying to form chewy, candle-like treats. This recipe offers a simple, authentic way to create these nutty, tart, and chewy snacks at home.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (about 240g) walnuts, whole or halved
  • 4 cups (960ml) pomegranate juice, fresh pressed if possible
  • ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour or cornstarch for thickening
  • ¼ cup (50g) sugar, optional
  • A pinch of salt
  • String or cotton thread for threading walnuts (unbleached cotton preferred)

Instructions

  1. Thread about 20-25 walnuts onto a sturdy cotton string using a long needle. Tie knots at both ends to keep the nuts secure. Set aside. (15 minutes)
  2. Pour 4 cups (960ml) of pomegranate juice into a large pot. Add sugar (if using) and a pinch of salt. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring often.
  3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 30 minutes until juice is concentrated to about half, with a rich ruby color and slightly syrupy texture.
  4. In a separate bowl, mix ½ cup (60g) flour or cornstarch with a bit of cold water to form a smooth slurry.
  5. Slowly whisk slurry into the simmering juice. Keep stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for another 10-15 minutes until the mixture thickens to the consistency of honey and is glossy.
  6. Hold the walnut string by one end and slowly dip it into the thickened pomegranate glaze, ensuring all walnuts are well coated. Lift and let excess drip off.
  7. Repeat dipping 2-3 times, letting the glaze set slightly between dips for a sturdier coating.
  8. Hang the coated walnut strings in a dry, well-ventilated spot away from direct sunlight. Drying takes about 3-5 days depending on humidity. The Churchkhela is ready when the coating is firm but still chewy to the bite.
  9. Once dried, store Churchkhela in a cool, dry place wrapped in parchment paper or in an airtight container. It can last for weeks and tastes better as it matures.

Notes

If glaze gets too thick or clumpy, add a splash of water and stir vigorously. Do not rush drying; patience ensures perfect chewy texture. Use a strong needle and double string for threading walnuts. Avoid refrigeration to maintain texture. Variations include using almonds or hazelnuts, different fruit juices, and adding spices like cinnamon or cloves.

Nutrition

Keywords: Churchkhela, Georgian candy, walnut pomegranate candles, traditional Georgian recipe, homemade Churchkhela, nutty snack, pomegranate glaze, gluten-free dessert, vegan candy

Find it online: https://sweetstirring.com/authentic-georgian-churchkhela-recipe-easy-homemade-walnut-pomegranate-candles/