Kubdari

Kubdari is a traditional Georgian delight, hailing from the rugged Svaneti region. This recipe offers a delightful combination of a soft, yet hearty dough filled with a spiced meat mixture. The dough is made from simple ingredients and envelops a flavorful blend of ground meat, onions, garlic, and an array of spices. Baked until golden, Kubdari emerges as a delicious stuffed bread, perfect for savoring the rich culinary traditions of Georgia. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with yogurt or salad, Kubdari is a delightful treat for those seeking a taste of Georgian cuisine.

**Ingredients:

​

For the Dough:

- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup water (warm)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

​

For the Filling:

- 1 pound (450g) ground beef or a mixture of beef and pork
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 hot peppers (such as jalapeños), finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground fenugreek
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste

​

**Instructions**

​

**For the Dough:**

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and salt. Stir until the sugar and salt dissolve.

2. Add the flour gradually, mixing continuously to form a dough.

3. Knead the dough on a floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic.

4. Place the dough back in the bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rest for about 1 hour.

​

**For the Filling:**

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped hot peppers, tomato paste, ground coriander, ground fenugreek, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined.

​

**Assembling Kubdari:**

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Divide the dough into golf ball-sized portions.

3. Roll each portion into a flat circle, about 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) in diameter.

4. Place a generous amount of the meat filling in the center of each dough circle.

5. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, creating a round or oval shape. Pinch the edges to seal the filling inside.

​

**Baking Kubdari:**

1. Place the stuffed dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

2. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.

​

**Serve:**

1. Allow the Kubdari to cool slightly before serving.

2. Enjoy your Kubdari warm, either on its own or with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad.

​

Kubdari is a delicious and savory Georgian specialty that showcases the rich flavors of the region.