If you're a fan of dried fruit, you'll love tklapi – a traditional Georgian fruit leather made from pureed fruit that's dried in the sun. Tklapi is a popular snack in Georgia, and it's easy to see why. It's sweet, chewy, and bursting with flavor. In this post, we'll take a closer look at tklapi, its history, how it's made, and some of the best places to try it in Georgia.
What is Tklapi?
Tklapi is a type of fruit leather that's made by pureeing fruit and then spreading it out in the sun to dry. The result is a sweet, chewy snack that's packed with flavor. Tklapi is made using a variety of fruits, but some of the most popular include:
- Apples
- Pears
- Plums
- Cherries
- Grapes
Tklapi can be eaten on its own as a snack, or it can be used in cooking. It's a common ingredient in Georgian cuisine and is often used in dishes like stews and soups.
The History of Tklapi
Tklapi has been a part of Georgian cuisine for centuries. It's believed to have originated in the mountainous regions of Georgia, where the harsh climate made it difficult to grow and preserve fresh fruit. Tklapi was a way for people to enjoy the flavors of fresh fruit year-round.
In the past, tklapi was made using a special tool called a "tsitsila." The tsitsila was a wooden frame with a piece of cloth stretched over it. The pureed fruit was spread onto the cloth and left to dry in the sun. Today, tklapi is made using modern equipment, but the process is still the same.
How is Tklapi Made?
Making tklapi is a simple process, but it requires patience and attention to detail. Here's how it's done:
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Choose your fruit: Select ripe, fresh fruit that's free of blemishes and bruises. Wash the fruit and remove any stems, seeds, or pits.
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Puree the fruit: Use a blender or food processor to puree the fruit until it's smooth and free of lumps.
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Spread the puree: Pour the pureed fruit onto a flat surface, such as a baking sheet or a piece of parchment paper. Use a spatula to spread the puree evenly, making sure it's not too thick or too thin.
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Dry the puree: Place the puree in the sun to dry. This can take anywhere from a few days to a week, depending on the weather and the thickness of the puree. Once the puree is dry, it should be pliable but not sticky.
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Cut the tklapi: Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut the tklapi into strips or squares. Roll the tklapi into a tight spiral or leave it flat.
Where to Try Tklapi in Georgia
If you're visiting Georgia, there are plenty of places to try tklapi. Here are some of the best:
Dry Bridge Market, Tbilisi
Dry Bridge Market is a must-visit for anyone interested in Georgian food and culture. Here, you'll find vendors selling everything from antiques to handmade crafts to traditional Georgian foods, including tklapi. The tklapi sold at Dry Bridge Market is made using traditional methods and is some of the best in the city.
Gourmet Dried Fruits, Tbilisi
If you're looking for high-quality tklapi made with organic fruits, head to Gourmet Dried Fruits in Tbilisi. This small shop specializes in dried fruits and nuts, including tklapi made with a variety of fruits. The tklapi here is made using natural ingredients and is free of preservatives and additives.
Kakheti Region
The Kakheti region of Georgia is known for its wine, but it's also a great place to try tklapi. Many of the small towns and villages in Kakheti have local markets where you can find tklapi made with locally grown fruits. Some of the best tklapi in Kakheti can be found in the town of Telavi, which is known for its delicious dried fruits.
Health Benefits of Tklapi
Tklapi is not only delicious, but it's also good for you. Here are some of the health benefits of tklapi:
- High in fiber: Tklapi is a great source of dietary fiber, which can help regulate digestion and promote satiety.
- Rich in vitamins and minerals: Tklapi is packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and iron.
- Low in calories: Tklapi is a low-calorie snack, making it a great option for anyone watching their weight.
Tklapi in Georgian Cuisine
Tklapi is a common ingredient in Georgian cuisine and is used in a variety of dishes. Here are some of the most popular:
- Chikhirtma: This traditional Georgian soup is made with chicken broth, tklapi, and eggs.
- Kharcho: This hearty beef stew is flavored with tklapi and a variety of spices.
- Badrijani Nigvzit: This dish features eggplant stuffed with tklapi and a walnut paste.
Conclusion
Tklapi is a delicious and healthy snack that's easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether you're visiting Georgia or just looking for a new snack to try, tklapi is definitely worth a taste. With its sweet, chewy texture and burst of fruity flavor, it's no wonder why tklapi has been a part of Georgian cuisine for centuries.