Svaneti salt (სვანური მარილი) is an aromatic mixture typical of the northwestern mountainous region of Georgia. It combines coarse salt and local spices in a seasoning with an intense aroma and a unique taste. Traditionally it replaces common table salt and is used to flavor meat, fish, potatoes, eggs and soups. Its strength lies in the balance between herbaceous and floral notes, which make it a symbol of Georgian cuisine. If you want you can add a little chilli.

SVANETI SALT

Ingredients

• 2 heaped tablespoons of coriander seeds

• 1 heaped tablespoon of dried dill

• 1 heaped tablespoon of blue fenugreek

• 1 tablespoon dried calendula

• ½ tablespoon of cumin

• 6 and a half tablespoons of coarse salt

• 150 g of garlic

Preparation

Peel the garlic and crush the cloves.

In a bowl, mix all the spices and salt.

Add the chopped garlic and mix with your fingers until the mixture is uniform and slightly moist.

Store in an airtight glass jar in the fridge.

Credits: Vittorio Castellani aka Chef Kumalé.