მწარე წიწაკა

Contexte culturel

In Samegrelo, 'mtsare tsitsaka' is used in almost every dish. It is believed to protect against the humid climate and historically helped fight malaria. A plate of raw 'mtsare tsitsaka' is a staple at a Supra. It is eaten alongside 'shoti' bread and cheese to balance the heavy flavors of the wine and meat. Some Georgians believe that eating 'mtsare tsitsaka' can cure a cold or improve blood circulation. It's common to eat it with garlic when feeling sick. There is a saying that if a woman is a 'mწარე წიწაკა', she will be a strong head of the household. It reflects a respect for fierce, independent women.