Authentic Georgian Shotis Puri

Ingredients

• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ cups (355ml) warm water 1 ½ cups (355ml) warm water

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 160 kcal / 670 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 0.5g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 34g, 0g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, and salt.
2. 2.
   Gradually add warm water to the dry ingredients while mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands.
3. 3.
   Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes soft and elastic.
4. 4.
   Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
5. 5.
   Preheat your oven to 230°C (450°F) and place a baking stone or an inverted baking sheet on the middle rack.
6. 6.
   Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 4 equal portions.
7. 7.
   Shape each portion into a round disc, about 1/2 inch thick.
8. 8.
   Place the discs on a lightly floured surface and let them rest for 10 minutes.
9. 9.
   Carefully transfer the discs onto the preheated baking stone or baking sheet.
10. 10.
    Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
11. 11.
    Remove from the oven and let the bread cool on a wire rack before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Flour — Use all-purpose flour for the best results. Bread flour can also be used for a slightly chewier texture.
• Instant yeast — If using active dry yeast, activate it in warm water with a pinch of sugar before adding it to the dough.
• Warm water — The water should be warm to the touch but not hot, as hot water can kill the yeast.
• Salt — Ensure the salt is evenly distributed throughout the dough during the mixing process.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more authentic touch, you can bake the bread on a preheated pizza stone instead of a baking sheet.
• To achieve a crispier crust, place a shallow pan of water on the bottom rack of the oven while baking.
• Experiment with adding herbs or spices to the dough for additional flavor variations.
• Serve Shotis Puri warm for the best taste and texture.
• Leftover bread can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days or frozen for later use.

Serving advice

Serve Shotis Puri alongside traditional Georgian dishes such as Khachapuri (cheese-filled bread), Lobio (bean stew), or Chakhokhbili (chicken stew). It is also delicious when paired with hummus, tzatziki, or other Mediterranean dips.

Presentation advice

To showcase the beautiful golden crust of Shotis Puri, serve it on a wooden breadboard or a rustic platter. Tear the bread into rustic pieces and arrange them in an inviting manner. Optionally, sprinkle some flour on top for an extra touch of authenticity.