Gwaramari - 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
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water
• 1/4 cup (60ml) plain yogurt 1/4 cup (60ml) plain yogurt
• 1 cup (100g) grated sulguni cheese 1 cup (100g) grated sulguni cheese
• 1/2 cup (50g) grated imeruli cheese 1/2 cup (50g) grated imeruli cheese
• 2 tablespoons melted butter 2 tablespoons melted butter

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, combine the warm water, 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 yogurt.
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). Punch down the dough and divide it into small balls.
6. 6.
   Flatten each ball and place a spoonful of the cheese mixture in the center. Fold the edges over the filling and seal the dough.
7. 7.
   Place the filled dough balls on a baking sheet and brush them with melted butter.
8. 8.
   Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. 9.
   Serve the Gwaramari warm and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cheese — Make sure to use a combination of sulguni and imeruli cheese for an authentic Georgian flavor. If these cheeses are not available, you can substitute with mozzarella and feta cheese.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, you can add herbs such as dill or parsley to the cheese filling.
• Serve Gwaramari with a side of Georgian tomato and cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
• If you prefer a spicier version, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top of the bread before baking.
• Experiment with different types of cheese to create your own unique flavor combinations.
• Gwaramari is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but you can reheat leftovers in a toaster oven for a few minutes to regain the crispiness.

Serving advice

Serve Gwaramari warm as an appetizer or alongside a main course. It pairs well with Georgian soups, stews, or grilled meats.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Gwaramari on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs such as cilantro or basil, to add a pop of color. Serve with a side of Georgian sauces, such as tkemali or adjika, for dipping.