About Khavitsi
Khavitsi: Mtianetian Flour and Ghee Porridge
Khavitsi is a hot, filling Georgian highland porridge made in several regional forms. This Mtianeti-associated home version combines wheat and corn flour, water, salt and clarified butter.
The flours are lightly toasted, then stirred into boiling salted water until smooth and thick. A little pool of warm ghee in the centre is the simple traditional finish.
Household proportions and ingredients vary across Georgia. This edition uses a common flour-based form; it is distinct from cheese-based, sweet and other regional preparations.
Khavitsi is a family of Georgian dishes rather than a single fixed formula. The Mtianeti and neighbouring Mtiuleti highlands are associated with flour-based versions, while other regions make preparations with curd, clarified-butter residue or sweet ingredients.
This version blends equal amounts of wheat flour and fine corn flour. Toasting them gently brings out a light nutty aroma; the porridge then thickens in salted water and is served hot with clarified butter.
Keep the flour pale while toasting and whisk it into the boiling water in a slow stream. These two details help prevent scorching and lumps. Once it thickens, stir across the base of the pan with a wooden spoon.
