Mtsvadi is the Georgian version of shashlik (or shish kebab) found across Central Asia. Unlike the marinated shashlik found elsewhere, mtsvadi is typically prepared with minimal seasoning, using only salt and sometimes onions, allowing the natural flavors of pork, lamb, or beef to dominate.
The meat is traditionally cooked over grapevine embers, imparting a distinctive smoky aroma and subtle sweetness, and is served with raw onions, fresh herbs, and Georgian bread.
In contrast to Turkish shish kebab, which frequently uses smaller pieces of marinated meat or minced mixtures, mtsvadi emphasizes larger cuts and straightforward preparation methods.