Taftan is a traditional Kashmiri leavened flatbread known for its soft texture and slightly sweet taste. It is typically made with a combination of wheat flour, yeast, yogurt, milk, and sometimes saffron or other flavorings. Here’s a basic recipe to make Taftan:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1/4 cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons melted ghee or butter
- 1 egg, beaten
- Saffron threads (optional)
- 1 tablespoon warm milk (for saffron, if using)
- Nigella seeds or sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in the warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, warm milk, yogurt, melted ghee or butter, and beaten egg.
- Mix the ingredients together until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour. If it’s too dry, add a little more warm milk.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you’re using saffron, soak a few saffron threads in warm milk and set aside.
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into equal-sized portions. Shape each portion into a smooth ball and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each ball.
- Flatten each ball slightly with your hands to form a disc shape. If desired, you can use a fork to make decorative patterns on the surface of the dough.
- Brush the tops of the dough with the saffron-infused milk (if using) and sprinkle with nigella seeds or sesame seeds for garnish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the Taftan is golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and let the Taftan cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Taftan warm with butter, jam, or your favorite spread!
