Homemade Georgian Khachapuri with Cheese and Egg: A Delicious Journey Into Georgian Cuisine

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There’s something undeniably magical about the combination of warm, freshly baked bread, melted cheese, and the richness of a perfectly baked egg nestled in the center. These flavors and textures come together in the iconic Georgian dish, Khachapuri. A staple in Georgia, Khachapuri has transcended borders and become a beloved comfort food worldwide. Whether you’re new to Georgian cuisine or already a fan, making homemade Khachapuri with cheese and egg will not only fill your kitchen with amazing aromas but also transport you to the heart of Georgia.

Picture yourself breaking off a piece of the crispy dough and dipping it into the gooey cheese and egg filling—pure bliss. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together. In this article, we’ll guide you step-by-step through the process of creating this irresistible dish, from the dough to the cheese filling and final touches. You’ll not only master this Georgian classic but also impress friends and family with your newfound culinary skills.

What is Khachapuri? A Glimpse Into Georgian Culinary Tradition

Before diving into the recipe, let’s take a moment to understand what Khachapuri is and why it’s such a beloved dish in Georgian cuisine.  Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Baked Spinach Mushroom Quesadillas

Khachapuri (pronounced kha-cha-POO-ree) is a traditional Georgian pastry made with a soft, chewy dough filled with cheese and sometimes topped with an egg. The word “Khachapuri” literally translates to “cheese bread” in Georgian. While the dish has variations across different regions of Georgia, the most common and beloved version is a boat-shaped bread filled with melted cheese and topped with a raw egg. The dish is typically served hot, with the egg yolk intact, allowing you to mix it with the cheese for an unforgettable flavor experience.

Georgians take great pride in their Khachapuri, and it’s often made for special occasions, holidays, or as a comforting family meal. The dish perfectly combines the savory richness of cheese with the satisfying dough, offering both warmth and flavor in every bite.

Khachapuri has become famous around the world, and with this recipe, you can create an authentic version right in your own kitchen.

Key Ingredients for Homemade Khachapuri with Cheese and Egg

To make a truly authentic Khachapuri, it’s essential to use the right ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of the key components for both the dough and cheese filling.

For the Dough:

The dough is the foundation of Khachapuri. It should be soft, elastic, and slightly crispy on the outside once baked. The ingredients you need are:

Ingredient	Quantity
Active dry yeast	2 ¼ teaspoons
Sugar	1 teaspoon
Warm water (110°F)	1 cup
All-purpose flour	3 cups
Sea salt	1 teaspoon
Olive oil	¼ cup

For the Khachapuri Cheese Filling:

The cheese filling is what makes Khachapuri so irresistible. The mix of feta and mozzarella cheeses offers a perfect balance of tangy and creamy flavors. The ingredients are:

Ingredient	Quantity
Feta cheese (grated)	1 ½ cups
Mozzarella cheese (grated)	2 cups
Eggs (for filling)	2 large eggs
Salt and pepper	To taste

For Garnish:

The finishing touch to your Khachapuri should be buttery and flavorful. Add these ingredients for the perfect garnish:

Ingredient	Quantity
Butter	3 tablespoons (1 per Khachapuri)
Freshly chopped dill (optional)	2 teaspoons

These ingredients come together to create a warm, cheesy, egg-filled boat of goodness that will have your taste buds dancing.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Homemade Khachapuri

Now that you have all the ingredients, let’s walk through the steps to make this Georgian delight. It’s easier than you might think, and the results will be nothing short of amazing.

Preparing the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the active dry yeast, sugar, and warm water (about 110°F). Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes. You’ll notice the mixture becoming frothy, which means the yeast is activated and ready to go.
2. Make the Dough:
   • To the yeast mixture, add the all-purpose flour, sea salt, and olive oil. Stir everything together until the ingredients start to come together.
   • Once combined, turn the dough onto a floured surface and begin kneading. You’ll need to knead the dough for about 7-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
3. Let the Dough Rise:
   • Once your dough is ready, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean towel and place it in a warm spot. Let it rise for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. If you’re short on time, you can refrigerate it overnight to allow for a slower rise and deeper flavor.

Making the Cheese Filling

1. Combine the Cheeses:
   • In a separate bowl, mix the grated feta cheese and grated mozzarella cheese. The feta will add tang, while the mozzarella will melt beautifully, creating a smooth and creamy filling.
2. Add Eggs:
   • Add 2 eggs to the cheese mixture. Stir everything together until the cheese and eggs are fully combined. This will form the rich and creamy filling that will go inside your Khachapuri.
3. Season:
   • Add salt and pepper to taste. You may want to be cautious with the salt since the feta can be quite salty on its own.

Assembling the Khachapuri

1. Divide the Dough:
   • Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface and divide it into three equal portions. You can make larger or smaller Khachapuris depending on your preference, but three portions are perfect for this recipe.
2. Shape the Dough:
   • Roll each portion of dough into an oval shape, about 10-12 inches in length. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect—Khachapuri is rustic and doesn’t need to be symmetrical.
3. Add the Filling:
   • Place one-third of the cheese filling in the center of each oval. Leave about a one-inch border around the edges. Be careful not to overfill, as the dough needs room to fold over.
4. Shape the Khachapuri:
   • Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pinching them together to form a boat shape. Flip the dough over so the seam is at the bottom. Using a sharp knife, cut a line across the top of the dough, being careful not to cut into the filling. This helps the Khachapuri keep its shape while baking.

Baking the Khachapuri

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a baking sheet inside to heat up as well—this will help the bottom of the Khachapuri become crispy.
2. Apply the Egg Wash:
   • In a small bowl, whisk the remaining egg. Brush this egg wash over the surface of the dough for a beautiful golden-brown finish when baked.
3. Bake the Khachapuri:
   • Carefully place your shaped Khachapuri onto the preheated baking sheet. Bake for about 15 minutes, or until the dough is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
4. Add the Egg:
   • After the first bake, take the Khachapuri out of the oven and use a spoon to create space in the center of the cheese for the egg. Crack one egg into the space and sprinkle it with a little salt and pepper.
5. Final Bake:
   • Return the Khachapuri to the oven for another 5 minutes, or until the egg is cooked to your liking. Some prefer a soft, runny yolk, while others prefer the egg to be fully set.

How to Serve and Enjoy Your Khachapuri

Once your Khachapuri is ready, it’s time to enjoy it! Here’s how to serve and make the most of this delicious dish:

1. Top with Butter:
   • As soon as the Khachapuri comes out of the oven, top it with a tablespoon of butter. The hot bread will melt the butter, adding an extra layer of richness to the already flavorful dish.
2. Sprinkle Fresh Dill:
   • For an added touch of flavor, sprinkle the Khachapuri with freshly chopped dill. The herb pairs beautifully with the cheese and egg filling.
3. How to Eat:
   • Khachapuri is often eaten by tearing off the edges of the dough and dipping them into the cheese and egg mixture. Alternatively, you can mix the egg and cheese together before dipping the bread in for a more cohesive bite.

Khachapuri can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. It’s a fantastic dish to share with loved ones or serve as a unique centerpiece for your next meal.

Conclusion: Bringing the Heart of Georgia to Your Kitchen

There’s nothing quite like the experience of biting into a warm, gooey Khachapuri. The combination of the crispy, golden dough with the rich cheese and egg filling is a flavor sensation that is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a new brunch idea or a comforting dinner, Homemade Khachapuri with Cheese and Egg will undoubtedly deliver.

Making Khachapuri at home is a fun and rewarding experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the rich culinary traditions of Georgia. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and start baking. Your taste buds will thank you, and your friends and family will be asking for seconds!

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