Georgian Eggplant Rolls with Walnuts are a traditional appetizer made of tender eggplant slices filled with a rich walnut-garlic paste. They’re smoky, nutty, and beautifully accented with fresh herbs and pomegranate seeds.
Author:Laura
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:40 minutes
Yield:4 servings (about 12 rolls)
Category:Appetizer
Method:Fried or Roasted
Cuisine:Georgian
Diet:Vegan
Ingredients
2 medium eggplants
1 cup walnuts
2 cloves garlic
1 small onion
1 tbsp white wine vinegar or lemon juice
2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tsp ground coriander
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper or chili flakes (optional)
Salt, to taste
Olive oil, for frying or roasting
1/4 cup pomegranate seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
Slice eggplants lengthwise into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick. Sprinkle lightly with salt and let them rest for 15–20 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat dry with paper towels.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the eggplant slices until golden and tender on both sides, then set them aside to cool. Alternatively, brush them with oil and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes.
In a food processor, combine walnuts, garlic, onion, vinegar or lemon juice, cilantro, coriander, cayenne, and salt. Blend into a thick, creamy paste. Add a tablespoon of water if needed for smoother consistency.
Spread a thin layer of walnut mixture over each cooled eggplant slice.
Roll each slice from one end to the other and place seam-side down on a serving plate.
Garnish with pomegranate seeds and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro before serving.
Notes
Salting the eggplant before cooking helps reduce oil absorption.
You can prepare the walnut filling up to two days ahead and store it in the fridge.
Serve rolls cold or at room temperature for best flavor.
For a variation, try adding parsley, dill, or roasted red pepper to the walnut mixture.