Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Adjaruli Khachapuri (Georgian Cheese Boat with Egg and Butter) Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.1 from 12 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Khachapuri is a traditional Georgian cheese-filled bread boat topped with a baked egg and butter. This recipe creates a soft, elastic dough filled with a blend of feta, mozzarella, and ricotta cheeses, then baked to golden perfection. The final touch of a runny egg yolk mixed with melted cheese makes for a rich, creamy, and indulgent dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting meal any time of day.


Ingredients

Dough

  • 1 ½ cups water (divided)
  • 1 tsp dry active yeast
  • 3 tsp granulated sugar
  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Cheese Filling

  • 1 ½ cups Feta cheese
  • 1 ½ cups low-moisture whole-milk Mozzarella (shredded)
  • ¾ cup Ricotta cheese

Topping

  • 4 eggs
  • 4 tsp butter


Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl or liquid measuring cup, warm ½ cup of water to 110°F. Stir in 1 tsp dry yeast and 1 tsp sugar. Cover and set aside in a warm place for 10 minutes until the mixture becomes bubbly and rises, indicating the yeast is active.
  2. Prepare the Dough: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the all-purpose flour, remaining 2 tsp sugar, and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture along with the remaining 1 cup of water. Knead with the dough hook attachment until the dough is smooth and elastic, about 3 minutes. The dough may stick to the bowl’s sides.
  3. Add Olive Oil: Pour in 1 tablespoon olive oil and knead again in the mixer for another 1-2 minutes to incorporate the oil thoroughly into the dough.
  4. Let the Dough Rise: Lightly grease a glass or metal bowl. Transfer the sticky dough into the bowl and cover it with a dish towel. Place in a warm, dark spot and allow the dough to rise for approximately 2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
  5. Mix the Cheese Filling: While the dough is rising, combine the feta, shredded mozzarella, and ricotta cheese in a medium bowl. Stir until well combined and set aside.
  6. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 450°F (232°C) to prepare for baking.
  7. Shape the Dough: Once risen, divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each quarter individually with a rolling pin into a 10-inch circle.
  8. Create the Boat Shape: Fold one edge of the dough about one-third toward the center, then fold the opposite edge in the same way, so the two edges meet and form a boat-like shape. Twist the tips and pinch them tightly to seal. Place each boat-shaped dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  9. Fill with Cheese: Divide the cheese mixture evenly among the four dough boats, placing it in the center of each one.
  10. First Bake: Bake the khachapuri in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until the dough edges are turning golden brown.
  11. Make an Egg Pocket: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and carefully create a small well or pocket in the center of the cheese filling in each boat using a spoon.
  12. Add the Eggs and Finish Baking: Crack one egg into each cheese pocket. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 3-4 minutes until the egg whites are set but the yolk remains runny. Keep in mind the yolk will continue to cook slightly after removal.
  13. Add Butter: Immediately after removing from the oven, place 1 teaspoon of butter around the cheese filling in each khachapuri. You may add more just before serving if you like.
  14. Serve and Enjoy: To eat, break off the end of the bread and use it to gently break the egg yolk inside the cheese boat. Stir the yolk into the hot melted cheese to create a creamy sauce. Use the bread to scoop up the cheesy, eggy filling and enjoy this savory Georgian delight!

Notes

  • The dough is sticky by nature, which is normal for this recipe. Avoid adding extra flour to maintain softness.
  • Ensure water is at about 110°F to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
  • Use fresh eggs for the best flavor and texture in the topping.
  • For variation, try adding herbs such as dill or parsley to the cheese mixture.
  • If you don’t have a stand mixer, the dough can be kneaded by hand for about 8-10 minutes.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Georgian