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Taste Imeretian Cuisine

Taste Imeretian Cuisine

Krysta
A classic Georgian cheese bread, Imeruli Khachapuri is a staple of Imeretian cuisine, known for its soft, pillowy dough and generous, gooey, salty cheese filling. Perfect as a meal or a hearty snack.
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 300 grams all-purpose flour plus more for dusting
  • 7 grams active dry yeast
  • 5 grams sugar
  • 5 grams salt for dough
  • 200 ml lukewarm water
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 250 grams Imeruli Kveli or Sulguni cheese grated or crumbled
  • 1 large egg beaten
  • 1 large egg yolk for egg wash
  • 1 tablespoon milk for egg wash

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Mix well.
  • Gradually add lukewarm water and vegetable oil. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 7-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let it rise in a warm place for 60-90 minutes, or until doubled in size.
  • While the dough rises, prepare the filling. In a separate bowl, combine the grated cheese and beaten egg. Mix thoroughly.
  • Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and divide it into two equal balls. On a floured surface, roll out one dough ball into a circle about 8-10 inches in diameter.
  • Place the cheese filling in the center of the rolled-out dough, leaving a 1-inch border. Gather the edges of the dough over the filling, pinching them together at the top to seal completely, forming a ball shape.
  • Gently flatten the sealed dough ball with your hands or a rolling pin to create a flat, round disk, about 7-8 inches in diameter. Be careful not to break the dough and let the cheese escape. Create a small hole (about 1/2 inch) in the center for steam to escape during baking.
  • Repeat with the second dough ball and remaining filling.
  • Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Whisk the egg yolk with milk to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of the khachapuri generously with the egg wash.
  • Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Serve hot.

Notes

For an authentic taste, use Imeruli Kveli or Sulguni cheese. If unavailable, a mix of mozzarella and feta (or ricotta and feta) can be used as a substitute for a similar salty, melty texture. Serve immediately while warm and the cheese is still soft. A brush of melted butter on top after baking adds extra flavor.
Keyword Imeruli Khachapuri, Georgian cheese bread, cheese pie, Khachapuri recipe, Georgian food, bread recipe