What is Levengi? Recipe

What is Levengi? Recipe and Overview of a Traditional Azerbaijani Dish

Levengi is one of Azerbaijan’s most beloved traditional dishes, especially popular in the southern regions of the country. This flavorful stuffed dish, typically made with fish or chicken, is filled with a rich mixture of walnuts, onions, and dried fruits. It’s a must-try for those who want to explore the depth of Azerbaijani cuisine. In this blog, we’ll dive into what Levengi is, how it’s prepared, and the step-by-step recipe to make this delicious dish at home.

What is Levengi?

Levengi is a type of stuffed dish prepared using either fish (usually kutum) or chicken. It is filled with a unique mixture of ground walnuts, caramelized onions, and dried fruits such as sour plums or raisins. This blend creates a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors.

Levengi holds a special place in Azerbaijani culture, especially in the Lankaran and Masalli regions, which are known for their culinary richness. Traditionally, Levengi is served during holidays and family gatherings, making it both a festive and hearty dish.

How is Levengi Prepared?

Levengi can be made with either fish or chicken, but the filling is always the same: a flavorful walnut mixture enhanced with caramelized onions and dried fruits. Below is a simple recipe to prepare chicken Levengi, though you can easily substitute the chicken with whole fish if preferred.

Chicken Levengi Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

1 cup ground walnuts
2 onions (finely chopped)
4-5 dried sour plums (or raisins)
2 tbsp pomegranate molasses
1 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Chicken:

1 whole chicken (cleaned, about 1.5-2 kg)
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper for seasoning

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until golden and caramelized.
Add the ground walnuts, dried plums (or raisins), and pomegranate molasses to the onions. Mix well.
Season the filling with salt and pepper to taste. Let it cool slightly before using.

Step 2: Stuff the Chicken

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
Rub the inside and outside of the chicken with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Stuff the chicken cavity with the prepared walnut filling. Use kitchen twine or toothpicks to close the opening securely.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken

Place the stuffed chicken in a baking dish or roasting pan.
Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 75°C/165°F).
Baste the chicken with its own juices halfway through the baking time to keep it moist.

Step 4: Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with rice or fresh herbs on the side for a complete meal.

How to Serve Levengi?

Levengi is typically served with a side of pilaf (saffron rice), fresh herbs, and a salad of tomatoes and cucumbers. In some regions, people also enjoy it with tandoori bread or pickled vegetables.

Conclusion

Levengi is more than just a dish—it’s a symbol of Azerbaijani hospitality and tradition. The combination of walnuts, onions, and dried fruits creates a unique flavor profile that reflects the diverse culinary heritage of the region. Whether you make it with chicken or fish, this hearty dish is sure to impress your guests and leave a lasting impression.

Next time you’re in Baku or Southern Azerbaijan, be sure to try authentic Levengi—or better yet, make it at home using the recipe above. Enjoy your meal, or as they say in Azerbaijan, “Nuş olsun!”