Sinori
Sinori is a traditional savory pastry from the Adjara region of Georgia, made with thin layers of unleavened dough (iukha or lavash) rolled and baked with a rich filling of cheese curds, butter, and garlic. It's known for its flaky texture and comforting, cheesy flavor.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 sheets Lavash or yufka sheets(about 10x20 inches each)
- 100 g Butter(melted)
- 500 g Cheese curds or cottage cheese
- 2 cloves Garlic(crushed)
- 50 ml Water
- to taste Salt
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
If using lavash, cut it into 2x10 inch strips. If using yufka, ensure they are softened by covering with a damp towel.
- 2
Roll the lavash or yufka strips into tight scrolls. Cut the scrolls into pieces about two fingers wide and arrange them vertically in a baking dish.
- 3
In a bowl, combine the cheese curds (or cottage cheese), crushed garlic, and salt. Add the water and mix well. This mixture should be moist but not watery.
- 4
Pour the melted butter over the cheese mixture and stir to combine. Ensure the butter is warm but not boiling.
- 5
Pour the cheese and butter mixture over the rolled lavash pieces in the baking dish, ensuring it seeps into all the layers.
- 6
Place the dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling and the top is lightly golden. If desired, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes uncovered to crisp the edges.
- 7
Serve hot, with extra melted butter or a dollop of yogurt on the side if desired.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓High-quality cheese curds or full-fat cottage cheese are essential for the best flavor.
- ✓Do not over-bake, as the lavash can become too dry.
- ✓A sweet variation can be made by adding sugar to the butter and minced walnuts to the filling.
🔄 Variations
- Some recipes use 'iukha', a traditional thin unleavened bread.
- Sweet sinori includes sugar and walnuts.
- Can be made with ricotta or a blend of cheeses.