Khachapuri is a traditional Georgian dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of food lovers around the world. This iconic cheese-filled bread, often described as a “cheese boat,” is a savory pastry that features a rich and gooey filling made from a blend of cheeses, typically including feta, mozzarella, or sulguni, and is baked to perfection in a soft, golden crust. The combination of melted cheese and tender dough creates a dish that’s both indulgent and comforting, perfect for any time of day.
The most popular version of khachapuri is the adjaruli style, which is shaped like a boat and filled with a generous portion of cheese. A raw egg and a pat of butter are typically added to the center before baking, giving the dish its signature look and creamy, luscious texture once the egg is mixed into the melted cheese. As you break into the warm bread, the egg and butter mix with the cheese to create a rich, satisfying filling that’s both savory and slightly tangy, a true treat for cheese lovers.
Khachapuri is versatile and can be made in several regional variations, each with its own twist on the cheese filling and crust. Some versions include additional ingredients like spinach, meats, or herbs, while others use different types of cheese blends to alter the flavor. No matter the variation, khachapuri remains a beloved dish in Georgia, often served as a snack, breakfast, or even a main course.
This cheesy delight is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, served warm with a side of fresh herbs or vegetables. Khachapuri can be eaten on its own or paired with a simple salad or pickled vegetables to balance the richness of the cheese. It’s also perfect for sharing with friends and family, making it an ideal dish for gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour plus more for dusting
- 1/4 cup warm water around 110°F
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1 cup cheese blend (feta and mozzarella) grated
- 1 large egg beaten
Instructions
- In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water and let it stand until bubbly.
- In a large bowl, combine flour with the yeast mixture and knead until a dough forms. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Roll the dough into a rough oval shape on a floured surface.
- Place the cheese blend onto the center of the dough, spreading it out evenly. Fold the edges of the dough over to create a boat shape.
- Bake the khachapuri in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes until the crust is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven, make a small well in the center of the cheese, and crack an egg into it.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the egg is cooked to your liking.
- Serve the khachapuri hot, breaking the egg yolk and mixing it with the cheese before eating.
Nutrition
This khachapuri turned out amazing! The cheese was gooey and the crust was just right. Will definitely make again!
Should the water be hot or cold? I kinda messed mine up. Still edible tho!
Super easy to follow, but my dough didn’t rise as much as I hoped. Maybe I didn’t wait long enough? Still tasted good tho!
This recipe is AMAZING! The khachapuri turned out perfectly, and my family loved it. Will definitely make it again!
This recipe is not authentic! Real khachapuri has more cheese, I think you’re missing out on the real flavor.
I followed the instructions but my dough was too sticky. Should I add more flour next time? 🤔
I tried this recipe and it didn’t work at all. The dough was sticky and wouldn’t roll out. I think I added too much water. Not sure if I’ll give it another shot.
Too much cheese for my taste, but the baking part was fun.
Too much cheese? Are you serious? That’s the best part! Maybe try less next time, lol.
I get what you mean about the cheese! It’s definitely rich, but I guess that’s kinda the point! Glad you had fun baking though!
I don’t know, seems kinda complicated… Can’t I just use store-bought dough?
It was okay, but my dough didn’t rise much. Maybe I did something wrong? Not sure if I will try again.