Sheermal is a traditional Persian bread with a sweet and aromatic twist. This saffron-infused flatbread is enjoyed across the Indian subcontinent and the Middle East. It pairs perfectly with various savory dishes or can be savored on its own as a delightful snack. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through making this unique and flavorful bread at home.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup of sugar
- 1/4 cup of warm milk
- 2 tablespoons of ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of saffron strands, soaked in 1 tablespoon of warm milk
- 1/2 teaspoon of cardamom powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of yeast
- 1/4 cup of warm water
- Sliced or chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios) for garnish (optional)
Directions:
1. Activating the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mixing the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, sugar, ghee, and salt.
- Pour in the activated yeast mixture and saffron-infused milk.
- Mix all the ingredients together to form a soft, sticky dough.
3. Kneading and Rising:
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 2-3 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
4. Shaping the Sheermal:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F) and place a baking stone or tray inside.
- Divide the risen dough into equal portions and shape them into round balls.
- Roll each ball into a flat, round bread, about 1/4 inch thick.
5. Baking:
- Remove the hot baking stone or tray from the oven and carefully place the sheermal on it.
- You can garnish the sheermal with sliced or chopped nuts if desired.
- Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the sheermal is golden and slightly puffed.
6. Serving:
- Serve your freshly baked sheermal warm with your choice of sides, dips, or as a sweet snack on its own.
Conclusion:
Sheermal is a unique and delicious bread that brings together saffron, cardamom, and a touch of sweetness. Its rich, aromatic flavor makes it a perfect accompaniment to a wide range of dishes.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
1. Can I use butter instead of ghee?
- Yes, you can use butter as a substitute for ghee, but ghee adds a unique flavor to sheermal.
2. What can I serve with sheermal?
- Sheermal pairs well with savory dishes like kebabs, curries, or dips, but it’s also delicious on its own.
3. Can I make sheermal without saffron?
- While saffron is a key ingredient for the distinct flavor and color, you can make sheermal without it, but it won’t have the same saffron aroma and hue.
4. Is sheermal similar to naan or roti?
- Sheermal is different from naan and roti. It’s a sweet, saffron-infused bread, whereas naan and roti are savory flatbreads.
