Savory Svanetian Cheese Bread

Ingredients

• For the dough: For the dough:
• 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (240ml) warm water 1 cup (240ml) warm water
• For the filling: For the filling:
• 1 cup (200g) sulguni cheese, grated 1 cup (200g) sulguni cheese, grated
• 1 cup (200g) feta cheese, crumbled 1 cup (200g) feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 cup (100g) mozzarella cheese, grated 1 cup (100g) mozzarella cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill or parsley, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh dill or parsley, chopped
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• For serving: For serving:
• Butter, for brushing Butter, for brushing

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 12g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 50g, 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

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, whisk together the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture.
3. 3.
   Gradually incorporate the flour into the liquid, mixing until a dough forms.
4. 4.
   Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. 5.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
6. 6.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. 7.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the grated sulguni cheese, crumbled feta cheese, grated mozzarella cheese, and chopped fresh herbs. Mix well.
8. 8.
   Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal portions. Roll out each portion into an oval shape.
9. 9.
   Spoon half of the cheese mixture onto one half of each oval-shaped dough, leaving a border around the edges.
10. 10.
    Fold the other half of the dough over the cheese filling and pinch the edges to seal.
11. 11.
    Transfer the khachapuri to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the surface with beaten egg wash.
12. 12.
    Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
13. 13.
    Remove from the oven and brush the surface with butter for a glossy finish.
14. 14.
    Serve the Svanetian khachapuri hot, allowing the cheese to ooze out as you tear into it.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Sulguni cheese — If you can't find sulguni cheese, you can substitute it with a combination of mozzarella and white cheddar for a similar flavor and texture.
• Feta cheese — Opt for a high-quality feta cheese that is brined for the best taste and crumbly texture.
• Fresh herbs — Feel free to experiment with different herbs like basil or cilantro to add your own twist to the khachapuri.
• Active dry yeast — Ensure that your yeast is fresh and active to achieve a good rise in the dough.
• Egg wash — For a richer golden color, you can add a pinch of turmeric powder to the beaten egg before brushing it on the khachapuri.

Tips & Tricks

• To achieve a crispier crust, you can brush the edges of the khachapuri with a little olive oil before baking.
• Serve the Svanetian khachapuri with a side of fresh tomato and cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
• If you prefer a stronger cheese flavor, you can add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top of the khachapuri before baking.
• For a touch of sweetness, you can add a drizzle of honey over the hot khachapuri just before serving.
• Leftover khachapuri can be reheated in a toaster oven or skillet for a quick and delicious breakfast.

Serving advice

Serve the Svanetian khachapuri as a centerpiece of a meal, accompanied by a variety of Georgian side dishes and salads. It is best enjoyed fresh and hot, allowing the cheese to ooze out as you tear into it.

Presentation advice

Present the Svanetian khachapuri on a wooden board or platter, allowing its golden crust and melted cheese filling to take center stage. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a pop of color.