Name: Sesame Khachapuri
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Georgian
Ingredients: For the Dough:; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon active dry yeast; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1/2 cup warm water; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon salt; For the Filling:; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1 egg (for the filling); For the Topping:; 1 egg (for brushing); 2 tablespoons sesame seeds; 1 tablespoon olive oil

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If you’ve ever dreamed of biting into a warm, gooey, cheesy creation that feels like a hug from the inside, then let me introduce you to Sesame Khachapuri! This Georgian-inspired dish is a savory, cheesy masterpiece that combines the rich, comforting flavors of melted cheese, tender dough, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Imagine pulling apart the warm dough to reveal the melty cheese inside – it’s as dreamy as it sounds! Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked.

Why You’ll Love Sesame Khachapuri

Sesame Khachapuri is the kind of dish that’s perfect for any occasion – whether you’re having a cozy meal at home or impressing guests at a dinner party. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: You can enjoy it as a snack, appetizer, or even a main dish. Serve it for brunch with eggs, or pair it with a fresh salad for a light lunch.

Budget-Friendly: With simple ingredients like cheese, flour, and sesame seeds, this dish is affordable without compromising on flavor.

Quick and Easy: The dough might sound like a challenge, but it’s surprisingly easy to make! Plus, once it’s in the oven, the heavenly smells filling your kitchen will make it all worth it.

Customizable: Feel free to swap in different cheeses or add extras like spinach, herbs, or even ground meat to make this khachapuri your own.

Crowd-Pleasing: This recipe is always a hit at gatherings. It’s just the right combination of comfort food and indulgence, with a little something extra thanks to the sesame topping.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

All-Purpose Flour: The base for our soft, fluffy dough.
Active Dry Yeast: This helps the dough rise and gives it that light, airy texture.
Sugar: A little bit to help activate the yeast and balance the savory flavors.
Warm Water: To dissolve the yeast and bring everything together.
Salt: Essential for seasoning the dough and enhancing the flavors.
Olive Oil: Adds richness and softness to the dough.

For the Filling:

Mozzarella Cheese: Soft, melty, and gooey. The perfect cheese to create that irresistible pull when you tear into the khachapuri.
Feta Cheese: Tangy and salty, it brings a nice balance to the mozzarella and adds a traditional Georgian flavor.
Egg (optional): A raw egg can be added to the center of the filling for that iconic khachapuri look, where it bakes to perfection right in the middle.
Fresh Parsley: A bit of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.

For the Sesame Topping:

Sesame Seeds: The stars of this dish’s crunchy, flavorful topping. Toasted just right for a perfect crunch.
Olive Oil: To help the sesame seeds stick to the dough and give it a nice gloss.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s bring this cheesy, sesame-covered dream to life:

Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, until the yeast activates and becomes bubbly. In a separate large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough feels sticky, add a little more flour. Cover the bowl with a cloth and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Prepare the Filling: While the dough is rising, combine the mozzarella cheese, crumbled feta, and chopped parsley in a bowl. Set it aside.
Shape the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 2 or 4 equal pieces (depending on the size of khachapuri you want). Roll each piece into a round or oval shape on a lightly floured surface.
Assemble the Khachapuri: Place the rolled-out dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spoon a generous amount of the cheese mixture into the center, spreading it evenly. If you’re using an egg, carefully crack it in the center of the cheese mixture (it will cook beautifully in the oven). Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pinching the ends to form a boat shape, leaving the center open.
Toast the Sesame Seeds: In a small bowl, mix the sesame seeds with a little olive oil. Brush the edges of the dough with this sesame oil mixture, then sprinkle the sesame seeds generously over the edges.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the khachapuri for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
Finishing Touches: Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories (depending on the size and amount of cheese used)

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve Sesame Khachapuri

Sesame Khachapuri is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides:

Serve it with a simple Greek salad, dressed with lemon and olive oil, for a fresh and tangy contrast.
Pair it with a cup of creamy soup, like tomato or lentil, for a cozy, comforting meal.
You can also enjoy it as a snack or appetizer, perfect for dipping into hummus or tzatziki sauce.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

If you prefer a richer dough, you can substitute the olive oil with melted butter.
For a lighter version, feel free to use part-skim mozzarella.
If you can’t find feta, you can substitute it with ricotta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.

FAQ’s

Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling?
Yes! You can experiment with other cheeses like gouda, cheddar, or even cream cheese, but mozzarella and feta are the traditional choices.
Can I make the dough in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge to rise slowly. Just let it come to room temperature before using.
How can I make my khachapuri even cheesier?
Feel free to add more mozzarella, or even mix in a little parmesan for extra flavor.
Can I freeze the khachapuri after baking?
Yes, you can freeze the baked khachapuri. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftover khachapuri in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Can I make individual-sized khachapuris?
Yes! Simply divide the dough into smaller portions and follow the same steps to make mini versions.
Can I add meat to the filling?
Absolutely! Ground lamb, beef, or chicken can be added for a heartier version.
What if I don’t want to use sesame seeds?
If you’re not a fan of sesame seeds, you can skip them or use another topping, like poppy seeds or nigella seeds.
What’s the best way to serve khachapuri?
Khachapuri is best served warm and fresh out of the oven. It’s delicious on its own or with a side of yogurt, salad, or pickles.
Can I make the dough by hand instead of using a mixer?
Yes, just knead the dough by hand for 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. It’s a great way to get a little workout in while making something delicious!

Conclusion

Sesame Khachapuri is a delightful combination of soft, cheesy goodness and crunchy sesame seeds that will have everyone coming back for more. It’s the perfect dish for any meal of the day, and with its customizable filling, you can make it your own. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this khachapuri will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy every cheesy, sesame-covered bite!