Khachapuri is a mouthwatering and iconic Georgian dish, beloved for its delectable cheese-filled bread that comes in various regional styles. In this article, we'll share a basic recipe for making the famous Imeruli Khachapuri, one of the most popular variations that will surely tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients:

- 2 cups of all-purpose flour

- 1 teaspoon of active dry yeast

- 1 teaspoon of sugar

- 1 cup of lukewarm water

- 1/2 teaspoon of salt

- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil

- 1 1/2 cups of grated cheese (a delightful blend of mozzarella and feta works wonderfully)

- 1 egg (optional, for an indulgent egg wash)

- Butter (optional, for a delectable finishing touch)

Instructions:

1. Let's start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, gently stir together the lukewarm water, sugar, and yeast. Allow this mixture to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy and activated.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture along with the vegetable oil to the flour, and mix until a soft dough starts to take form.

3. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for approximately 5-7 minutes until it reaches a smooth and elastic consistency. Shape the dough into a ball.

4. Return the dough to the mixing bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rest in a warm spot for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size. This resting period allows the dough to rise beautifully.

5. While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to a delightful 475°F (240°C). Place a baking stone or baking sheet inside the oven to heat up as well.

6. Once the dough has risen, divide it into two equal parts. Take one portion of the dough and roll it out on a floured surface to form either a circular or oval shape, approximately 1/4 inch thick.

7. Place half of the grated cheese at the center of the dough, leaving a border around the edges. Now, fold the edges of the dough over the cheese, pinching them together to create a boat-like shape, with the cheese tantalizingly exposed in the center.

8. Repeat the same process with the second portion of the dough and cheese to prepare your second Khachapuri.

9. For an alluring golden finish, consider beating an egg and brushing it over the exposed cheese and dough edges.

10. With utmost care, transfer your Khachapuri onto the preheated baking stone or baking sheet, ready to embrace the oven's warmth.

11. Bake the Khachapuri in the preheated oven for approximately 12-15 minutes, or until the crust takes on a glorious golden hue, and the cheese melts into gooey perfection.

12. As a delightful option, once removed from the oven, you can brush the crust with a touch of butter, adding a sumptuous finishing touch.

Nutritional Information for the Entire Khachapuri Recipe:

- Calories: Approximately 2015 - 2115 kcal (varies based on the cheese blend and optional ingredients used)

- Carbohydrates: Approximately 103 - 108g (varies based on the cheese blend and optional ingredients used)

- Protein: Approximately 63 - 68g (varies based on the cheese blend and optional ingredients used)

- Fat: Approximately 92 - 105g (varies based on the cheese blend and optional ingredients used)

- Sodium: Approximately 2843 - 3303mg (varies based on the cheese blend and optional ingredients used)

Here is the approximate nutritional information for each item in the recipe:

1. 2 cups of all-purpose flour:

  - Calories: Around 480 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 96g

  - Protein: About 12g

  - Fat: Around 2g

  - Sodium: Approximately 12mg

2. 1 teaspoon of active dry yeast:

  - Calories: Around 7 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 1g

  - Protein: About 1g

  - Fat: Around 0g

  - Sodium: Approximately 0mg

3. 1 teaspoon of sugar:

  - Calories: Around 16 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 4g

  - Protein: About 0g

  - Fat: Around 0g

  - Sodium: Approximately 0mg

4. 1 cup of lukewarm water:

  - Calories: Approximately 0 kcal (water has no calories)

  - Carbohydrates: About 0g

  - Protein: Around 0g

  - Fat: About 0g

  - Sodium: Approximately 0mg

5. 1/2 teaspoon of salt:

  - Calories: Around 0 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 0g

  - Protein: About 0g

  - Fat: Around 0g

  - Sodium: Approximately 1165mg (The sodium content in salt is high)

6. 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil:

  - Calories: Around 240 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 0g

  - Protein: About 0g

  - Fat: Around 28g

  - Sodium: Approximately 0mg

7. 1 1/2 cups of grated cheese (mozzarella and feta blend):

  - Calories: Around 600-700 kcal (depending on the type of cheese and the blend proportions)

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 2-5g (again, depending on the cheese)

  - Protein: About 45-50g

  - Fat: Around 40-50g

  - Sodium: Approximately 1500-2000mg (varying by cheese type)

8. 1 egg (optional, for an indulgent egg wash):

  - Calories: Around 70-80 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 0.5g

  - Protein: About 6g

  - Fat: Around 5g

  - Sodium: Approximately 70mg

9. Butter (optional, for a delectable finishing touch):

  - Calories: Around 102 kcal per tablespoon

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 0g

  - Protein: About 0g

  - Fat: Around 12g

  - Sodium: Approximately 86mg

Please note that the nutritional values provided are approximate and can vary based on the specific brands and quantities used. Additionally, the values for the cheese can vary depending on the type and blend used. It's always a good idea to check the nutrition labels on the packaging of the ingredients you use for more accurate information.

Now, it's time to savor the freshly baked Khachapuri while it's still warm, embracing the heavenly blend of flavors and the comforting cheese-filled goodness. This recipe creates two generous servings, but don't hesitate to adjust the quantities according to your cravings. Feel free to experiment with various cheese combinations or add other delectable ingredients to create your own unique version of this cherished Georgian delight. Bon appétit!