Description
Sesame Khachapuri is a delicious Georgian cheese bread featuring a soft yeasted dough filled with a blend of mozzarella and feta cheeses. The dough is shaped into a boat-like form, topped with sesame seeds, and baked until golden and bubbly. Perfect as a comforting snack or a savory meal, this recipe combines the richness of cheese with the crispness of sesame-topped bread.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 egg (for dough)
- 1/2 cup warm milk
Cheese Filling
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (or another soft cheese, like ricotta or farmer’s cheese)
Topping and Finishing
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for brushing the top)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir and let sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture is frothy, indicating the yeast is activated.
- Make Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture, warm milk, olive oil, and egg. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
- Let Dough Rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Prepare Cheese Filling: While the dough is rising, mix the shredded mozzarella cheese and crumbled feta cheese in a bowl until well combined.
- Shape and Fill Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough into a large circle about 10-12 inches in diameter. Place the cheese mixture in the center, leaving a border around the edges. Fold the edges of the dough over the cheese to create a boat-like shape, leaving the center open.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the shaped Khachapuri on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the edges of the dough with a little olive oil or melted butter and sprinkle sesame seeds over the top.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the dough is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from the oven and, if desired, brush the edges with butter for extra flavor. Slice and serve warm. Enjoy on its own or with fresh vegetables, pickles, or a dollop of sour cream.
Notes
- Use warm water and milk to properly activate the yeast.
- If the dough is sticky, add flour gradually to avoid a tough dough.
- Feta can be substituted with ricotta or farmer’s cheese for a milder taste.
- For a richer flavor, brush the baked Khachapuri with butter immediately after baking.
- Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.