Khachapuri (Georgian Cheese Bread)
Learn to make authentic khachapuri, the delicious boat-shaped Georgian cheese bread. Filled with a mixture of flavorful cheeses and topped with an egg, this comforting dish is perfect for any meal.
The first time I tried khachapuri, or Georgian cheese bread, was at Hachapuria, a little restaurant in Jerusalem known for its authentic Georgian dishes. I remember thinking it was one of the best things I’d ever eaten. The name khachapuri comes from the Georgian words “khacho” (meaning cheese curds) and “puri” (meaning bread), so it translates to “cheese bread.” Khachapuri is kind of like a white pizza, but shaped like a boat and topped with an egg. It’s amazing when made from scratch with homemade dough, but if you’re short on time, store-bought pizza dough works nicely and gets this delicious dish on the table fast!
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, spooned into measuring cup and leveled-off, plus more for dusting
- 1 tablespoon instant/rapid-rise yeast (note: you'll need more than 1 packet)
- 2½ tablespoons sugar
- 2¼ teaspoons salt
- 1¼ cups water
- 4 tablespoons (¼ cup) unsalted butter, softened
- 6 oz Gruyere cheese (1½ cups)
- 6 oz cheddar cheese (1½ cups)
- 4 oz feta cheese (1 cup)
- ¼ cup Pecorino Romano or Parmigiano Reggiano cheese
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 4 large eggs (for topping)
- Flaky sea salt (kosher or table salt can be substituted)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill, optional