Grand Prix Gourmet

For the Azerbaijan Grand Prix we dove into the country’s cuisine, tackling some authentic dishes that were definitely not familiar kitchen fare. We gave it our best shot and ended up with a spread that brought a taste of Azerbaijan to the table. We tried Ganja-Style Chicken and Eggs, Shor (cheese spread) Mutekke (cardamon-walnut cookies) and a refreshing pomegranate cocktail.The race itself made the effort all the more worthwhile. We were delighted to see Max Verstappen take the win and absolutely thrilled to celebrate Carlos Sainz earning his very first podium with Williams, making the day feel both festive and historic.

•Ganja-Style Chicken & Eggs, a simple main dish that pairs well with a rice pilaf or bread.
•Cardamom-Walnut Cookies (Mutekke),  tender, not overly sweet, with fragrant cardamom
•Shor (Curd Cheese) Spread – Azerbaijani Style
Ingredients
    •    2 cups fresh curd cheese (you can use farmer’s cheese, ricotta, or strained cottage cheese)
    •    2–3 tbsp thick yogurt (adds creaminess — Greek yogurt works well)
    •    2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
    •    2 tbsp fresh cilantro or parsley, finely chopped
    •    1 garlic clove, very finely grated (optional)
    •    1 tbsp olive oil or a drizzle of walnut oil
    •    Salt to taste
    •    Black pepper or sumac to sprinkle on top
    •    Pomegranate seeds (optional garnish, very Azerbaijani!)
Directions
    1.    In a bowl, mash the curd cheese with a fork until it’s spreadable.
    2.    Stir in yogurt to make it creamy but still thick enough to hold on bread/crackers.
    3.    Mix in fresh herbs and garlic. Adjust salt and pepper.
    4.    Drizzle with olive or walnut oil.
    5.    Top with sumac or pomegranate seeds for a bright finish.