Authentic Georgian Khachapuri Recipe: A Cheese-filled Delight!

Ingredients

  • 500g all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 10g yeast
  • 300ml warm water
  • 1 egg (for the dough)
  • 200g unsalted butter
  • 300g feta cheese
  • 300g mozzarella cheese
  • 2 eggs (for the filling)
  • 1 egg yolk (for glazing)
  • 2 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar.
  2. Dissolve the yeast in warm water and wait for it to activate.
  3. Add the activated yeast and an egg to the flour mix, then knead until you achieve a soft, non-sticky dough. Leave the dough to rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
  4. While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. Combine feta and mozzarella cheese in a bowl, then add 2 eggs and mix well.
  5. Preheat the oven to 220 degrees Celsius.
  6. Divide the dough into two parts. Roll out each part into an oval shape, about 1cm thick. Fold the edges of the dough towards the center to create a boat shape, leaving the middle open for the filling.
  7. Spread half of the cheese mixture into the middle of each dough boat.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the crust starts to turn golden.
  9. Remove the boats from the oven and crack an egg on top of each. Return to the oven and bake for another 5 minutes, until the egg is cooked to your liking.
  10. Brush the crust with melted butter, sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired, and serve hot.

Tools for making

  • Large bowl - For mixing and kneading the dough.
  • Rolling pin - To roll out the dough into the desired shape and thickness.
  • Baking sheet - To place the khachapuri on for baking.
  • Oven - To bake the khachapuri until golden and cooked.
  • Brush - For brushing melted butter onto the crust after baking.

Recipe variations

  • Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
  • Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, gouda, or even blue cheese.
  • Add cooked and chopped bacon or ham to the filling for a meaty variation.
  • Incorporate chopped fresh herbs, such as dill, parsley, or basil, into the cheese mixture for extra flavor.
  • Add sautéed onions or caramelized onions to the filling for a savory twist.
  • For a vegetarian option, replace the feta and mozzarella cheese with a mixture of spinach and feta cheese.
  • Make a gluten-free version by using a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
  • Try a different shape, such as making individual small khachapuris or a large round one.
  • Make a sweet version by substituting the cheese filling with a combination of Nutella and chopped nuts.
  • Top the khachapuri with fresh tomato slices or roasted vegetables for added freshness.

Recipe overview

Khachapuri, often referred to as Georgian cheese bread, is a delicious and comforting dish that's sure to impress at your next gathering. This recipe takes you through the steps of making Khachapuri from scratch, including a warm, yeasty dough and a rich, cheesy filling. The final touch is a perfectly baked egg in the center. While the preparation process requires some patience, the result is a truly rewarding, flavorful delight. The golden crust, melted cheese, and soft egg blend together to create a unique taste experience. Enjoy Khachapuri fresh from the oven for the best experience - it's perfect as a hearty breakfast or a satisfying lunch!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of flour?
    Yes, you can try using bread flour or a combination of bread flour and all-purpose flour for a chewier texture.
  2. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
    Yes, you can use dry yeast as a substitute. Use 2 1/4 teaspoons of dry yeast instead of 10g of fresh yeast. Make sure to activate the dry yeast in warm water before adding it to the flour mixture.
  3. Can I use different types of cheese?
    Absolutely! While feta and mozzarella cheese are commonly used, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or even a mix of different cheeses to suit your taste.
  4. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
    Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before proceeding with dividing and rolling it out.
  5. What can I serve with khachapuri?
    Khachapuri is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or fresh herbs for a complete meal. It also pairs well with a variety of dips and sauces like tzatziki or tomato salsa.
  6. Can I freeze leftover khachapuri?
    Yes, you can freeze leftover khachapuri. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl for combining the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
  • Rolling Pin - Used to roll out the dough into an oval shape.
  • Baking Sheet - A flat sheet used to bake the khachapuri in the oven.
  • Pastry Brush - Used to brush melted butter onto the crust of the khachapuri.
  • Spatula - Helps to remove the khachapuri from the baking sheet without damaging the crust.
  • Knife - Used to cut the khachapuri into portions for serving.
  • Serving Plate - A plate to present the cooked khachapuri on the table.

Origin stories

In the heart of the Caucasus Mountains lies the country of Georgia, a land rich with culinary treasures, and among those, Khachapuri stands tall. Khachapuri, literally translating to 'cheese bread', is not just a dish, it's a symbol of Georgian hospitality and a staple at festive tables. Each region in Georgia boasts its own unique variation of Khachapuri. For instance, the Adjarian Khachapuri, from the coastal region of Adjara, is shaped symbolically like a boat, filled with a sea of cheese and topped with a sunny egg, while the Imeretian Khachapuri is round and filled with a generous amount of cheese. This beloved national dish of Georgia is so embedded in the culture that economists have even developed a 'Khachapuri Index' to reflect inflation trends in the Georgian economy. A bite of Khachapuri is a journey into the soul of Georgia, an experience of its warm hospitality, rich history, and love for good food.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.