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Khachapuri (Georgia)

Khachapuri is a traditional Georgian dish featuring a boat-shaped bread filled with a rich, melty cheese mixture, often topped with a runny egg. This savory treat is beloved for its gooey interior and crispy exterior, making it a comforting dish that’s perfect for sharing. Enjoyed as a snack or main course, khachapuri is a true indulgence that captures the essence of Georgian cuisine.

Ingredients (for 2 servings):

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 tsp sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup warm water
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Filling:

• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ½ cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
• 1 egg (for mixing)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Topping:

• 2 eggs (one for each khachapuri)
• 2 tbsp butter (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 min. until foamy. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt, then add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 min. until smooth. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the feta, mozzarella, ricotta, and one egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into two equal pieces. Roll each piece into an oval shape, about ½-inch thick. Pinch the edges of each oval to form a boat shape, leaving the center open for the cheese filling.
5. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place the shaped dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Fill the center with the cheese mixture, then bake for about 15-20 min. until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
6. Remove the khachapuri from the oven, and carefully crack an egg into the center of each. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 3-5 min. or until the egg is cooked to your desired doneness.
7. Remove from the oven, and top each khachapuri with a tablespoon of butter. Serve warm, and enjoy by mixing the egg and cheese together before tearing off pieces of the bread to scoop it up.

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