What it is
Tenili is a cheese from Meskheti, in southern Georgia, made from cow or sheep milk. The curd is stretched in warm whey into fine strings, washed in salted water and dried. It is then dipped in cream and packed into a sealed clay pot. Tenili means packed.
Around Georgia
The pots are turned upside down on sifted ash for about two months so the moisture can drain. The result is rich, stringy and salty. It is on Georgia's list of intangible cultural heritage and is now sold in markets across the country.
At the table
In Georgianტენილი
OriginMeskheti tradition
TypeCheese, cornmeal and dairy
How to order it
Look for it at cheese stalls in markets, especially in Samtskhe-Javakheti, and ask to taste before buying.
What's in it
Milk and cream. Vegetarian. Recipes vary, so confirm ingredients with the kitchen if you have an allergy or dietary need.
