Taftan is a delicious and aromatic Persian bread known for its distinctive saffron flavor and soft, pillowy texture. This delightful bread is a perfect accompaniment to a wide range of dishes, making it a favorite in many Middle Eastern and South Asian cuisines. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through making Taftan, bringing the flavors of the Middle East to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
For the Taftan Dough:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup of milk, lukewarm
- 1/4 cup of plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup of melted ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/4 cup of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons of warm milk
- 1 teaspoon of active dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
For Garnish:
- White sesame seeds or black nigella seeds (optional)
Directions:
1. Activating the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the lukewarm milk, sugar, and active dry yeast.
- Let it sit for about 10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Preparing the Taftan Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt.
- Add the activated yeast mixture, plain yogurt, melted ghee, and saffron-infused milk.
- Mix all the ingredients together to form a soft and slightly sticky dough.
3. Kneading:
- 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 Taftan:
- 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 out each ball into a flat, round bread, about 1/4 inch thick.
- You can use your fingers to create small depressions on the surface of the bread.
5. Baking:
- Remove the hot baking stone or tray from the oven and carefully place the Taftan on it.
- You can garnish the Taftan with white sesame seeds or black nigella seeds if desired.
- Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the Taftan is golden and slightly puffed.
6. Serving:
- Serve your freshly baked Taftan warm with your choice of Middle Eastern or South Asian dishes, or enjoy it on its own.
Conclusion:
Taftan is a flavorful and fragrant bread that’s a fantastic complement to various dishes. Its saffron-infused aroma and soft texture make it a delightful addition to your dining experience.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
1. Can I use butter instead of ghee?
- Yes, you can substitute ghee with butter for this recipe, but ghee adds a unique flavor to Taftan.
2. Is it necessary to use saffron in Taftan?
- Saffron is a key ingredient for the distinct flavor and color of Taftan. You can omit it, but it won’t have the same saffron aroma and hue.
3. What can I serve with Taftan?
- Taftan pairs well with a variety of Middle Eastern and South Asian dishes, such as kebabs, stews, or dips like hummus and baba ghanoush.
4. Can I make Taftan in advance?
- Taftan is best enjoyed fresh, but you can reheat it in the oven or on a griddle to restore its softness and flavor.
5. Is Taftan vegan?
- Taftan is not vegan due to the use of milk and yogurt. You can explore vegan alternatives to make it suitable for your diet.
