Chukhuri

Chukhuri is a traditional Georgian dish originating from the Svaneti region. It is a type of bread or pastry that is typically filled with cheese, often a salty, crumbly Svanetian cheese known as suluguni. The dough is usually made from wheat flour and water, sometimes with the addition of eggs or yeast, depending on the specific recipe and family tradition.

The preparation of chukhuri involves rolling out the dough into a thin layer, spreading the cheese filling evenly over it, and then folding or rolling the dough to enclose the cheese. The filled dough is then cooked, traditionally baked in a tone, a traditional Georgian clay oven, or pan-fried until golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey. The resulting dish is a savory and satisfying bread with a rich, cheesy interior.

Chukhuri is a staple food in Svaneti and is often served as a breakfast item, a side dish with meals, or as a standalone snack. Its popularity extends beyond Svaneti, and variations of chukhuri can be found in other parts of Georgia. The exact proportions of ingredients and cooking methods can vary, leading to slightly different textures and flavors, but the core elements of dough and cheese remain consistent.