Mchadi Megrelian

There are many varieties of khachapuri. Previously, we already prepared Adjarian khachapuri, and today we will make Megrelian khachapuri – this is a flatbread with a double filling of "Suluguni" cheese. It is very easy to prepare, as we only need to make the dough and combine it with the cheese filling. For variety, the dish can even be made in a frying pan, but today we will work according to the classic recipe.

History

The history of Megrelian khachapuri goes back centuries. This dish was traditionally prepared and served at holidays and special family events in Samegrelo. It held special significance in local culture and was a symbol of the hospitality and warmth of the Georgian people. Over time, the dish became widely known and popular throughout Georgia and then beyond its borders.

Ingredients

Show ingredients

• 330 g flour;
• 100 ml water;
• 80 ml milk;
• 1 tsp sugar;
• 1 yolk of chicken egg;
• 8 g dry yeast;
• 1 tsp salt;
• 30 g butter;
• 300 g "Suluguni" cheese.

Preparation

1. Warm the water to about 30-40 degrees and stir in the yeast with sugar – this is the starter for the future dough. Leave it in a warm place for 15 minutes, covering the container with plastic wrap.

2. When a "cap" appears on the surface of the starter, you can start kneading the dough. Pour in the warm milk, gradually sift in the flour and add salt. While the dough is liquid, we mix it with a fork, and as it begins to thicken – we knead it on the table. Place the dough in a bowl and let it sit in a warm place for 1.5–2 hours. Don't forget to cover the bowl with plastic wrap so that the top of the dough doesn't dry out.

3. Traditionally, this recipe uses suluguni, but you can try making Megrelian khachapuri with another type of cheese. Grate the suluguni using a grater with large holes.

4. Punch down the risen dough and divide it in half. Use a rolling pin to form a thin layer of dough about 3-4 mm thick.

5. In the center of the rolled-out dough, place a quarter of the grated cheese. Grate a little hard butter on the cheese, which will add tenderness to the filling. If you love greens, you can mix the cheese with green onions, cilantro, or parsley.

6. Gather the edges of the dough together to form a shape like khinkali, and pinch them at the top. Try to connect the edges tightly so that the flatbread doesn't fall apart.

7. Turn the flatbread over, seam side down, and roll it out into a flat shape. To release air from the filling, make a small hole in the center of the khachapuri. Transfer the flatbread onto parchment paper. If you're afraid of tearing the flatbread, you can roll it out directly on the parchment.

8. Brush the khachapuri with raw egg yolk on top and generously sprinkle with cheese. Place the parchment with the khachapuri on a hot baking sheet. Bake the flatbread with cheese at 200 degrees for 15-20 minutes, watching for a golden color.

9. Similarly, prepare the second Megrelian khachapuri. After baking, brush the pies with butter. Enjoy your meal!

How to serve

Megrelian khachapuri is traditionally served hot. You can cut it into portions and serve it at the table. The baked goods can be enjoyed on their own or in combination with various Georgian sauces and salads.

Cooking tips

• When choosing cheese for the filling, prefer varieties with a high-fat content and a soft texture. This will help achieve the ideal consistency of the filling and give the dish a rich taste.
• Knead the dough thoroughly. Spend enough time and attention to ensure the dough is soft and elastic. Well-kneaded dough will help achieve the perfect structure of the pie.
• If you don't have access to Georgian cheeses, you can use cheeses with a similar texture and taste.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I substitute Georgian cheeses in the recipe? Yes, you can use cheeses with a similar texture and taste if Georgian cheeses are not available for you.

2. Can I freeze Megrelian khachapuri? Yes, you can freeze it and reheat it before serving.

3. What filling can be added? The main filling is cheese, but you can also add herbs, onions, or spices to your taste.

4. What can khachapuri Megrelian style be served with? Khachapuri Megrelian style pairs well with Georgian sauces, fresh vegetables, or salads.