Çerkez Tavuğu (Circassian Chicken)

• Garlic4-6 cloves garlic, crushed
• Walnut500g walnuts, shelled
• Salt1.5 teaspoons salt
• Water2-3 liters water
• Paprika2 tablespoons sweet paprika
• Bread4 slices stale white bread, crusts removed
• Chicken1.8 kg whole chicken
• Oil3-4 tablespoons olive oil
• Pepper0.5 teaspoon black pepper

How to Make It

• 1

  Poach 2 chicken breasts (about 500g total) in lightly salted water for 20-25 minutes, or until they are fully cooked through. Remove the chicken, reserving 1 cup (240ml) of the cooking liquid, and allow the chicken to cool completely.

• 2

  Once cool enough to handle, use your hands or two forks to finely shred the cooked chicken breasts. Aim for small, even pieces. Set the shredded chicken aside.

• 3

  In a food processor, combine 1.5 cups (150g) of walnuts, 2 slices of stale white bread (crusts removed and torn into pieces), 3 cloves of garlic, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.

• 4

  Process these ingredients until the mixture forms a thick, smooth paste. Slowly add the reserved chicken broth, 1/4 cup (60ml) at a time, continuing to process until a creamy, spreadable consistency similar to a thick mayonnaise is achieved. You might not need all the broth, or you might need a little more; adjust to your desired texture.

• 5

  In a large mixing bowl, gently fold the finely shredded chicken into the walnut mixture, ensuring every piece of chicken is thoroughly coated in the rich, aromatic sauce. This step is crucial for flavor integration.

• 6

  Press the Çerkez Tavuğu mixture firmly into a serving dish, shaping it to create a smooth, even surface. This presentation is classic for this dish.

• 7

  For the vibrant topping, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of sweet paprika and cook for just 30 seconds, until the paprika blooms and becomes wonderfully fragrant. Be very careful not to burn it, as burnt paprika can taste bitter.

• 8

  Drizzle the warm, vibrant paprika oil generously over the Çerkez Tavuğu in the serving dish. Serve chilled or at room temperature as a flavorful appetizer with crusty bread or crackers. It's best when allowed to chill for at least an hour to let the flavors fully develop.