Dessert
Pelamushi with Wild Berries (Georgian Grape Pudding)
Original name: Pelamushi with Wild Berries

About this dish
Pelamushi is a traditional Georgian dessert made from grape must and cornmeal, thickened to a silky pudding. This version celebrates the wild berry harvest, swirling in juicy blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a bright, tart contrast to the sweet grape base.
It's a comforting yet elegant treat, often served at feasts and gatherings.
Ingredients
UK and US measurements are both included for every recipe.
Grape must
liquid1 liter
Imperial measurement: 4¼ cups
Coarse cornmeal
grain100 g
Imperial measurement: ¾ cup
Blackberries
fruit150 g
Imperial measurement: 1 cup
Blueberries
fruit100 g
Imperial measurement: ⅔ cup
Raspberries
fruit100 g
Imperial measurement: ¾ cup
Sugar
other100 g
Imperial measurement: ½ cup
Honey
liquid2 tbsp
Water
liquid200 ml
Imperial measurement: ¾ cup + 2 tbsp
Method
Combine must with water
5 minutesIn a large saucepan, combine the grape must with 200 ml (¾ cup) water and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
Add cornmeal slowly
10 minutesGradually whisk in the cornmeal in a thin stream to avoid lumps. Keep stirring with a wooden spoon or whisk until the mixture thickens and bubbles, about 5 minutes.
Cook until thick and smooth
15 minutesContinue cooking over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture pulls away from the sides and is very thick, about 8 to 10 more minutes. The pelamushi should be glossy and smooth with no graininess.
Beat until silky
3 minutesAfter removing from heat, beat vigorously the pudding (traditionally with a wooden spoon) until glossy and elastic, about 2 to 3 minutes. This step makes it extra silky.
Pour into a serving dish
2 minutesPour the hot pelamushi into a glass serving dish or four individual bowls. Smooth the surface with a spatula.
Make berry compote
5 minutesIn a separate saucepan, gently warm the berries with sugar, honey, and a dash of water. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the berries release their juices, crushing slightly with a spoon.
Top with berries and chill
30 minutesSpoon the warm berry mixture over the hot pelamushi, leaving a border around the edge. Let it cool to room temperature then refrigerate for a few hours, or serve slightly warm for a soft pudding feel.
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
- Serving bowl
Nutrition facts
Tips
- Serve warm or cold: I love it slightly warm right out of the pan, but in the summer we let it set in the fridge. Always stir religiously: Don't even think about walking away while making pelamushi – it can seize on you faster than a mother-in-law saying 'no' to the wedding dress. Be graceful with sweetness: Grape must is sweet, so taste as you go, and only add the honey if your fruit is on the tart side.
Serving suggestions
- Serve pelamushi in small bowls, scattered with a few extra fresh berries and a mint leaf for color. A little thing in a big bowl makes a lovely 'visual hug'. Pair with a and a spoonful of thick yogurt – more than welcome to cool.
Rate this recipe
No ratings yet. Be the first to rate it.

Recipe by
Nino Beridze
Specialises in Georgian cuisineNino makes khachapuri that oozes cheese like a volcano. She says the secret is loving the dough like a child.
Describe yourself in three words: Loving, loud, huggy.