Stuffed Georgian Cheese Breads

Stuffed Georgian Cheese Breads Recipe - Authentic Flavors of Georgia

Region / culture: Georgia | Servings: 8

Introduction

Stuffed Georgian Cheese Breads are a delicious and savory treat that originated in the country of Georgia. These breads are filled with a mixture of cheddar and feta cheese, Greek yogurt, egg, and fresh mint, creating a flavorful and satisfying snack or meal.

History

Georgian cuisine is known for its use of cheese in various dishes, and Stuffed Georgian Cheese Breads are no exception. These breads have been a popular dish in Georgia for centuries, with each region putting its own unique twist on the recipe.

Ingredients

600 g plain flour (4 cups)
1.5 tsp baking powder
0.5 tsp salt
0.5 liter Greek yogurt

Filling

125 g mild cheddar cheese, grated
75 g feta cheese, finely crumbled
2 tbsp Greek yogurt
1 egg, beaten
1 tsp fresh mint, finely chopped

How to prepare

To make the filling, combine all the filling ingredients in a bowl and set it aside.
In a large bowl, sift 1 cup of flour, baking powder, and salt.
Stir in the yogurt until well combined.
Add the remaining flour and mix until a dough forms.
Lightly flour a board or bench and knead the dough for 5 minutes, adding a little extra flour if the dough is sticky.
Divide the dough into 8 portions.
Cover the portions with a damp tea towel to prevent them from drying out while you work.
Take one piece and, on a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to a 15 cm round.
Place 1 tbsp of filling in the center of the round dough.
Gather the sides of the dough and twist the top to seal the edges, ensuring the filling is encased in the dough.
Gently roll out the dough again to achieve a round shape.
Place the dough on a baking-paper lined tray and cover it with another tea towel.
Repeat the process for the remaining dough and filling.
Heat a heavy-based frypan over medium heat and spray it with oil spray.
Cook the breads in batches for 1 minute on each side.
Transfer the cooked breads to 1 or 2 large oven trays in a single layer.
Bake at 220°C for 10 minutes or until the breads are puffed and golden.
Serve immediately.

Variations

Add chopped herbs such as parsley or dill to the filling for extra flavor.
Use different types of cheese such as mozzarella or gouda for a unique twist on the recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to seal the edges of the breads tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking.

- Rolling out the dough to a round shape ensures that the filling is evenly distributed throughout the bread.

- Cooking the breads in a hot pan before baking helps to create a crispy crust on the outside.

Serving Suggestions

Stuffed Georgian Cheese Breads can be served as a standalone snack or paired with a fresh salad for a more substantial meal.

Cooking Techniques

Kneading the dough helps to develop gluten, giving the bread a chewy texture.

- Rolling out the dough thinly ensures that the bread cooks evenly and puffs up in the oven.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use sour cream or buttermilk instead of Greek yogurt in the dough.

- Any combination of cheeses can be used for the filling, depending on your preference.

Make Ahead Tips

The dough for Stuffed Georgian Cheese Breads can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Stuffed Georgian Cheese Breads on a platter with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Stuffed Georgian Cheese Breads pair well with a glass of Georgian wine or a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Stuffed Georgian Cheese Breads can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the breads in a preheated oven at 180°C for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Stuffed Georgian Cheese Breads contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Stuffed Georgian Cheese Breads contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Stuffed Georgian Cheese Breads contains approximately 12 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Stuffed Georgian Cheese Breads contains approximately 10 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Stuffed Georgian Cheese Breads are a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin D.

Alergens

Stuffed Georgian Cheese Breads contain dairy (cheese and yogurt) and gluten (flour).

Summary

Stuffed Georgian Cheese Breads are a balanced meal or snack option, providing a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.

Summary

Stuffed Georgian Cheese Breads are a delicious and satisfying dish that showcases the flavors of Georgian cuisine. With a crispy crust and a cheesy filling, these breads are sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a joyful one. It was many years ago, when I was a young girl living in the beautiful country of Georgia. I remember wandering through the bustling streets of Tbilisi, the capital city, with the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through the air. It was a warm summer day, and I was drawn to a small bakery tucked away in a corner of the old town.

As I approached the bakery, I spotted a group of women huddled around a large wooden table, kneading dough and laughing as they worked. Curious, I edged closer to get a better look. The women noticed my interest and invited me to join them. They were making khachapuri, a traditional Georgian cheese bread that is beloved by all who taste it.

I eagerly rolled up my sleeves and dove into the dough, learning from the women as they guided me through the process. They taught me how to make the dough, how to shape it into a boat-like form, and how to fill it with a delicious mixture of cheeses and herbs. I was mesmerized by the skill and precision with which they worked, and I knew that I had found a new passion.

After hours of kneading, shaping, and baking, the khachapuri were finally ready. The women gathered around the table, breaking off pieces of the warm, cheesy bread and savoring each bite. I joined them, my taste buds tingling with delight at the rich and savory flavors. It was a moment of pure bliss, and I knew that I had stumbled upon a treasure that I would carry with me for the rest of my life.

Over the years, I honed my skills and perfected the recipe for khachapuri, adding my own twist with different cheeses and spices. I shared my creations with friends and family, who marveled at the deliciousness of the cheesy bread. It became a staple at our dinner table, a dish that brought us together and filled our hearts with warmth and joy.

But it wasn't until I met a kind elderly woman named Nana that I discovered the secret to making stuffed Georgian cheese breads. Nana was a master in the kitchen, with a wealth of knowledge passed down through generations. She took me under her wing and taught me the art of making khachapuri with a twist – stuffed with a tantalizing mixture of cheeses, herbs, and spices.

Nana's recipe for stuffed Georgian cheese breads was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. The dough was light and fluffy, the filling creamy and decadent, the flavors bursting with every bite. It was a culinary masterpiece, a dish that captivated the senses and left you craving more.

I spent countless hours in Nana's kitchen, learning from her as she shared her wisdom and expertise. She taught me the importance of using the finest ingredients, of taking the time to let the dough rise and develop its flavors, of infusing each bite with love and care. And with each batch of stuffed Georgian cheese breads that we made together, I felt a connection to the rich culinary heritage of my beloved country.

As the years passed, I continued to make Nana's recipe for stuffed Georgian cheese breads, sharing it with everyone I knew. It became a signature dish, a reflection of my passion for cooking and my love for the flavors of Georgia. And with each bite of the warm, cheesy bread, I was transported back to that sunny day in Tbilisi, surrounded by the laughter and camaraderie of the women who had welcomed me into their kitchen.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, kneading dough and filling it with a mixture of cheeses and herbs, I can't help but smile at the memories that flood my mind. The discovery of this recipe for stuffed Georgian cheese breads was a turning point in my culinary journey, a moment that opened my eyes to the wonders of Georgian cuisine and the power of sharing a meal with loved ones.

And as I take the golden brown loaves out of the oven, the smell of melted cheese and warm bread filling the air, I know that I will continue to carry on the tradition that Nana passed down to me. For in every bite of stuffed Georgian cheese breads, there is a taste of history, a touch of love, and a connection to the past that will never fade.