Gadazelili Khveli - Georgian Cheese Bread

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup (150g) mixed cheeses (feta, mozzarella, cheddar), grated 1 cup (150g) mixed cheeses (feta, mozzarella, cheddar), grated
• 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (such as parsley or dill), chopped 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (such as parsley or dill), chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
3. 3.
   Mix the ingredients together until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. 4.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. 6.
   Punch down the dough and divide it into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a circle, about 1/4 inch thick.
7. 7.
   In a bowl, mix together the grated cheeses, fresh herbs, black pepper, and paprika.
8. 8.
   Place a generous amount of the cheese mixture in the center of each dough circle. Fold the edges over the filling, pinching them together to seal.
9. 9.
   Place the stuffed bread on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with beaten egg wash.
10. 10.
    Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. 11.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cheese — Use a combination of different cheeses to achieve a well-rounded flavor. Feel free to experiment with your favorite types of cheese, but make sure they melt well.
• Fresh herbs — Choose herbs like parsley or dill to add a fresh and aromatic element to the filling. You can also use a combination of herbs for a more complex flavor profile.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more indulgent version, you can add cooked and crumbled bacon to the cheese filling.
• Serve Gadazelili Khveli with a side of Georgian tomato and cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top of the cheese filling before folding the dough.
• Make sure to seal the edges of the bread properly to prevent the cheese from leaking out during baking.
• Leftover Gadazelili Khveli can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes to regain its crispiness.

Serving advice

Serve Gadazelili Khveli warm as an appetizer or snack. It pairs well with a dollop of sour cream or a side of Georgian plum sauce for dipping.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top of the baked bread. You can also brush the crust with melted butter for a glossy finish.