Sesame Khachapuri

Are you ready to try a flavor-packed twist on a classic? Introducing Sesame Khachapuri—a delightful variation of the traditional Georgian cheese-filled bread that’s irresistible with a rich, warm center and a crispy, golden crust. But here’s the twist: it’s topped with sesame seeds for an extra crunch and a nutty depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the gooey cheese inside. Trust me, this dish is a game-changer and will have your taste buds singing.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests, treat yourself to something comforting, or explore new flavors, this Sesame Khachapuri has it all. It’s warm, cheesy, and full of savory goodness, with just enough sesame flavor to make it unique. You’re going to love this one!

Why You’ll Love Sesame Khachapuri

Cheese-Lover’s Dream
What’s not to love about melted cheese wrapped in soft, pillowy dough? It’s comfort food at its finest, with a slightly nutty twist from the sesame seeds that makes every bite a little more exciting.

Quick & Easy
You don’t need to be a pro baker to pull this off! With a few simple ingredients, you’ll have this savory dish ready in no time. It’s ideal for when you’re craving something flavorful but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Perfect for Sharing
This dish is so comforting and shareable—it’s ideal for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or a cozy night in. Trust me, no one will be able to resist the warm, gooey cheese and the crispy sesame crust.

Versatile
Want to make it even heartier? Add a fried egg on top like they do in Georgia, or fill the dough with extra fillings like spinach or bacon for a fun twist!

Ingredients in Sesame Khachapuri

For the Dough:

• All-Purpose Flour: The base for the soft and chewy dough.
• Instant Yeast: For that perfect rise and light, airy texture.
• Sugar: Just a little to activate the yeast and help the dough rise.
• Salt: For balancing out the flavors in the dough.
• Warm Water: To bring the dough together and activate the yeast.
• Olive Oil: For a little richness and to keep the dough soft.

For the Filling:

• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: This cheesy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness is what makes khachapuri so irresistible.
• Feta Cheese: Adds a tangy, creamy note that complements the mozzarella.
• Eggs: For richness and to create that creamy, custardy center.
• Salt and Pepper: For seasoning the cheese mixture.

For the Topping:

• Sesame Seeds: These add the perfect crunch and a nutty flavor that really elevates the dish.
• Butter: Melted butter brushed on top for that golden, crispy finish.

(Note: The full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and instant yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, add a little more flour.
4. Let It Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Filling:

5. Make the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, crumbled feta, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine.

Assemble the Khachapuri:

6. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a baking sheet or pizza stone in the oven to heat up as well.
7. Shape the Dough: Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten each ball into a round circle on a floured surface.
8. Fill the Dough: Place the cheese mixture in the center of each dough circle, leaving a border around the edges. Fold the edges of the dough over the cheese, leaving the center exposed, and pinch the edges to seal.
9. Brush with Butter: Brush the exposed dough with melted butter, then sprinkle sesame seeds generously over the top.

Bake:

10. Bake the Khachapuri: Place the shaped khachapuri on the preheated baking sheet or stone and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
11. Finish with Butter: Once out of the oven, brush the baked khachapuri with more melted butter for a beautiful glossy finish.

Serve:

12. Serve Warm: Serve your Sesame Khachapuri warm. You can add a fried egg on top for the full Georgian experience or enjoy it as is. Cut it into wedges and dig in!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 300
Total Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 550mg
Total Carbohydrates: 28g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 11g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Rise Time: 1 hour
Bake Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

How to Serve Sesame Khachapuri

• For Breakfast or Brunch: Serve it with a simple side salad or fresh fruit for a delicious and filling start to your day.
• As a Side: Pair this with a hearty soup, like tomato basil or lentil, for a comforting meal.
• With a Fried Egg: Top with a sunny-side-up egg for a full meal that’s packed with flavor.

Additional Tips

• Make it Vegan: Swap the cheeses for vegan alternatives and use a dairy-free butter to make this dish suitable for a plant-based diet.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven for a few minutes.
• Custom Variations: Add some cooked spinach or caramelized onions to the cheese filling for an extra layer of flavor.

FAQ

Q1: Can I use different types of cheese?
A1: Absolutely! You can experiment with other cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or even ricotta for different flavors.

Q2: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before using. Let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.

Q3: Can I freeze this?
A3: Yes, you can freeze the khachapuri before baking. Just assemble and freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes of cook time.

Q4: How do I know when it’s done baking?
A4: The dough should be golden brown, and the cheese should be bubbly and slightly browned. You can also tap the bottom of the khachapuri—it should sound hollow when fully baked.

Q5: Can I make the dough by hand instead of using a mixer?
A5: Absolutely! Simply knead the dough by hand for 7-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.

Q6: Is there a gluten-free option for the dough?
A6: Yes! You can use a gluten-free flour blend to make the dough, but the texture may vary slightly.

Q7: How do I get the sesame seeds to stick?
A7: Brushing the dough with melted butter before adding the sesame seeds will help them stick and give the crust a nice golden sheen.

Q8: Can I make this dish without sesame seeds?
A8: Yes, you can skip the sesame seeds if you prefer, or substitute them with poppy seeds or another topping of your choice.

Q9: Can I make a larger batch?
A9: Yes! You can double or triple the recipe, just make sure to adjust the baking time if necessary.

Q10: Can I make a single large Khachapuri instead of smaller ones?
A10: Absolutely! You can shape the dough into one large oval or round shape and fill it with the cheese mixture, then bake as usual.

Conclusion

This Sesame Khachapuri is a delightful twist on a classic that’s sure to impress! It’s cheesy, warm, and comforting, with the added crunch and nuttiness of sesame seeds that take it to the next level. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a brunch gathering, or just because you’re craving something delicious, this recipe is bound to become a favorite. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

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