The Flavors of Georgia

Situated at the crossroads of East and West, Georgia has endured its share of invasions. But it has also experienced some of the benefits of foreign influence, more visible in gastronomy than in politics. Georgian food is reminiscent of both Mediterranean and Middle Eastern tastes, the result of a rich interplay of culinary ideas carried along the trade routes by merchants and travelers. Yet even as the Georgians embraced new seasonings and methods, they did not blithely adopt all the culinary practices that came their way. Today their cooking represents more than a mélange of the flavors of other regions. Georgian cuisine stands distinct among the foods of the world, a vibrant, inspired interpretation of indigenous ingredients.