Baquerkhani, also known as Baqarkhani, is a traditional Indian bread that originated in the Mughlai cuisine. It is a rich, sweet, and flavorful bread often served as a festive or special occasion treat. Here’s a basic recipe to make Baquerkhani:
Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (maida)
- 1/2 cup semolina (sooji/rava)
- 1/2 cup ghee (clarified butter), melted
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
- Pinch of salt
For garnishing:
- Saffron strands soaked in warm milk
- Sliced almonds and pistachios
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, semolina, powdered sugar, baking powder, cardamom powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Gradually add the melted ghee and mix until the flour mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Slowly pour in the milk and knead the dough until it comes together into a smooth and soft ball. Add more milk if necessary to achieve the desired consistency.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Divide the dough into small equal-sized balls. Roll out each ball into a thin disc, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, make diagonal cuts on the rolled-out dough to create diamond-shaped pieces.
- Place the diamond-shaped pieces on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each piece.
- Brush the top of each piece with saffron-infused milk and garnish with sliced almonds and pistachios.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the Baquerkhani turns golden brown and crisp.
- Remove from the oven and let the Baquerkhani cool completely on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, sprinkle powdered sugar over the Baquerkhani for added sweetness.
- Serve the Baquerkhani as a delightful snack or dessert with tea or coffee.
Enjoy the rich and aromatic flavors of this classic Indian bread!
