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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 450°F (232°C) to prepare for baking.
- 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.
- 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.
- Fill with Cheese: Divide the cheese mixture evenly among the four dough boats, placing it in the center of each one.
- First Bake: Bake the khachapuri in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until the dough edges are turning golden brown.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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