As I stood in my kitchen, the enticing scent of roasted eggplants enveloped me, instantly transporting me to the vibrant markets of Georgia. When the craving for something truly unique strikes, these Georgian Eggplant Rolls with Walnuts are my go-to delight. The rich, smoky flavor of the eggplant pairs beautifully with the crunchy walnuts, creating a dip that’s more than just an appetizer—it’s a conversation starter.

A little surprise twist comes from the touch of pomegranate seeds on top, adding a burst of juiciness that complements the richness of the dish. Best of all, these elegant rolls come together effortlessly. After all, who says you need to spend hours in the kitchen to impress your guests? Whether you’re entertaining or just need a break from the usual dinner routine, this dish is sure to please!

Let’s dive into the simple steps to create this delightful dip that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.

Why are Georgian Eggplant Rolls with Walnuts unforgettable?

Irresistible flavors: The combination of roasted eggplant and richly textured walnuts creates a dip that’s both smoky and savory.

Effortless preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a stunning appetizer everyone will rave about.

Eye-catching presentation: The vibrant pomegranate seeds add a pop of color and a juicy contrast, making your dish as appealing as it is delicious.

Crowd-pleaser: This dip is perfect for gatherings, sparking conversation and delight at any party.

Versatile dish: Serve it with bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables for a unique and satisfying snack.

Elevate your entertaining game and enjoy the warm, inviting flavors of Georgian cuisine with this delightful recipe.

Georgian Eggplant Rolls with Walnuts Ingredients

For the Dip
• Eggplants – 3 medium-sized, roast until tender for a smoky depth of flavor.
• Salt – A dash to enhance the natural sweetness of the eggplants.
• Black pepper – Freshly cracked for a bit of heat and complexity.
• Cooking spray – Helps prevent the eggplants from sticking to the baking pan.
• Walnuts – 150 grams, they give a hearty crunch and rich taste that pairs perfectly with the eggplants.
• Very hot water – 100 ml, used to blend the mixture smoothly for a creamy texture.
• Garlic – 2 cloves minced, adding an aromatic punch that complements the dish beautifully.
• Khmeli suneli – 1 teaspoon, a traditional Georgian spice mix that infuses warmth and fragrance.
• Ground coriander – ½ teaspoon, lending a subtle earthy note to the dip.
• White wine vinegar – 2 teaspoons, balancing flavors with a slight tang.

For Serving
• Pomegranate seeds – 3 tablespoons, these bright jewels provide a sweet burst and an elegant touch on top.

Dive into creating these Georgian Eggplant Rolls with Walnuts, and treat yourself to a dish that’s as rich in culture as it is in flavor!

How to Make Georgian Eggplant Rolls with Walnuts

Preheat the oven. Set it to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking tray by coating it lightly with cooking spray for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Slice the eggplants into long strips, about ¼ inch thick. Generously season them with salt and black pepper. This helps to draw out moisture and enhances their natural sweetness.
Bake the eggplants. Place the seasoned strips on the baking tray and bake for about 25-30 minutes. They should be tender and slightly caramelized to achieve that delicious, smoky flavor.
Combine the baked eggplants, walnuts, very hot water, minced garlic, khmeli suneli, ground coriander, and white wine vinegar in a food processor. This mix will create a creamy and flavorful dip.
Blend until smooth. Pause to taste; adjust seasonings if necessary, adding more salt or pepper according to your preference. You want a rich texture that invites you to dip!
Serve the dip in a beautiful bowl and finish with a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds on top. The seeds not only add visual appeal but a refreshing sweetness, perfect for balancing flavors!

Optional: Pair with crusty bread or fresh vegetables for dipping.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Georgian Eggplant Rolls with Walnuts Variations

Customize this delightful dip to suit your palate and impress your guests with creative twists!

Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 teaspoons of harissa or chili flakes to the blended mixture for a fiery flavor that excites the taste buds. The heat enhances the smokiness of the eggplants beautifully.
Nut-Free: Substitute walnuts with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version that maintains a crunchy texture. Roasting these seeds can add a wonderful depth of flavor.
Herby Delight: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill after blending for a refreshing twist. Their vibrant flavors will brighten each bite, making the dish even more memorable.
Smoky Flavor Boost: Incorporate smoked paprika or liquid smoke into the blended mixture for an extra layer of smokiness that echoes traditional barbecue flavors. It’s a stunning way to elevate the richness.
Creamy Addition: For a creamier consistency, mix in a few tablespoons of Greek yogurt or vegan yogurt alternatives after blending. This will add a delightful tanginess that balances the dip’s richness.
Tangy Twist: Swap white wine vinegar for lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to brighten the flavors with a zesty punch. This variation gives a lively finish that sparks joy!
Sweet Surprise: For a hint of sweetness, add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the blend. This will create a harmonious contrast to the savory elements and deepen the overall complexity.
Cheesy Indulgence: Fold in crumbled feta or a dairy-free cheese alternative after blending for a savory creaminess that takes your dip to the next level. It adds a flavor dimension that’s absolutely delightful!

Feel free to mix and match these variations to discover your very own signature version of Georgian Eggplant Rolls with Walnuts!

Storage Tips for Georgian Eggplant Rolls with Walnuts

Room Temperature: Enjoy your dip fresh for up to 2 hours at room temperature; after that, it’s best to refrigerate to maintain quality.

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If it thickens, stir in a bit of water before serving again to restore the creamy texture.

Freezer: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before rewarming.

Reheating: Gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly, until just warmed through. Avoid boiling to preserve flavor and texture.

Make Ahead Options

These Georgian Eggplant Rolls with Walnuts are perfect for meal prep! You can roast the eggplants up to 24 hours in advance; just allow them to cool, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their flavor and texture. The walnut mixture can also be prepared ahead, as it stores beautifully for up to 3 days in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply blend the eggplants with the walnuts, garlic, and spices together, then top with pomegranate seeds. This allows you to enjoy a delightful, homemade dip with minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings!

What to Serve with Georgian Eggplant Rolls with Walnuts?

Elevate your dining experience with these delightful pairings that beautifully complement the smoky richness of this unique dip.

Crispy Pita Chips: Perfect for scooping, their texture contrasts wonderfully with the creamy dip for an enjoyable crunch.
Fresh Veggie Platter: Crisp cucumbers, colorful bell peppers, and radishes add a refreshing note that balances the savory flavors beautifully.
Homemade Flatbread: Soft, warm flatbread provides a comforting vehicle for the dip, allowing the flavors to meld as you eat.
Savory Cheese Board: Include aged cheeses that harmonize with the walnuts, offering a delightful pairing of flavors and creamy textures.
Zesty Lemonade: A refreshing drink that cuts through the dip’s richness, with citrus notes uplifting the palate in every sip.
Fruity Dessert: Light pastries or fruit tarts provide a sweet finish, contrasting with the savory dip while maintaining an elegant dining experience.

When you gather around the table, these suggestions will surely turn your meal into a vibrant celebration of flavors!

Expert Tips for Georgian Eggplant Rolls with Walnuts

Choose Fresh Eggplants: Look for firm, glossy skin without blemishes; they should feel heavy for their size, indicating ripeness.
Avoid Excess Salt: When salting eggplants, let them sit briefly to draw out moisture, but don’t over-salt or the dip may become too salty.
Blend to Perfection: For a creamier texture in your Georgian Eggplant Rolls with Walnuts, blend longer, adding hot water gradually until you reach the desired consistency.
Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings after blending to suit your palate; remember that flavors can intensify once chilled, so taste before serving!
Serving Variation: Experiment with toppings like chopped herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor and visual flair alongside the pomegranate seeds.

Georgian Eggplant Rolls with Walnuts Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe eggplants for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for eggplants that are firm with glossy skin, and feel heavy for their size—this indicates ripeness. Avoid those with dark spots or blemishes, as they might be overripe or spoiled.

How should I store leftover Georgian Eggplant Rolls with Walnuts?
Very good question! You can store your dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If it thickens, just stir in a small amount of warm water before serving to regain that creamy texture.

Can I freeze Georgian Eggplant Rolls with Walnuts?
Yes, you can! Freeze the dip in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply place it in the fridge overnight. When ready to use, gently reheat in a saucepan on low heat, stirring until warmed through, but avoid boiling to keep the flavors intact.

What if my dip doesn’t turn out smooth?
Don’t worry! If your dip is a bit chunky, you can blend it again in the food processor. If it’s too thick, add warm water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired creamy consistency. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed!

Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
It’s worth noting that this recipe contains walnuts, which can be an allergen for some individuals. If you’re serving guests with allergies, you can replace the walnuts with sunflower seeds for a nut-free alternative. Just keep in mind that the flavor will slightly change—but it will still be delicious!

How long can I keep the dip out at room temperature?
Great question! The dip can be enjoyed fresh at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, it’s best to refrigerate it to maintain its quality and flavor.