Chettinad Style Spiced Beaten Biscuits

Ingredients

In this Chettinad adaptation, the traditional American Beaten Biscuits are infused with the bold and aromatic flavors of Chettinad cuisine. The addition of Chettinad spices like black pepper, fennel seeds, and curry leaves gives the biscuits a unique taste and aroma, setting them apart from the original version. We alse have the original recipe for Beaten Biscuits, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper powder 1/2 teaspoon black pepper powder
• 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 tablespoon chopped curry leaves 1 tablespoon chopped curry leaves
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1/4 cup (60ml) cold water 1/4 cup (60ml) cold water

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 0g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.4g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper powder, fennel seeds, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and chopped curry leaves.
2. 2.
   Add the chilled and cubed butter to the bowl. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. 3.
   Gradually add the cold water to the mixture and knead until a smooth dough forms.
4. 4.
   Divide the dough into small portions and shape them into round biscuits.
5. 5.
   Using a fork, prick the biscuits all over to prevent them from puffing up during baking.
6. 6.
   Place the biscuits on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. 7.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
8. 8.
   Bake the biscuits for 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
10. 10.
    Serve the Chettinad Style Spiced Beaten Biscuits as a snack or as an accompaniment to a Chettinad meal.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Fennel seeds — Toast the fennel seeds in a dry pan for a few minutes to enhance their flavor before adding them to the dough.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough.
• Make sure the butter is chilled before incorporating it into the dough to achieve a flaky texture.
• Serve the biscuits warm for the best taste and texture.
• Experiment with different Chettinad spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise for a unique twist.

Serving advice

Serve the Chettinad Style Spiced Beaten Biscuits as a snack with a cup of hot chai or as a side dish with a Chettinad chicken curry or vegetable korma.

Presentation advice

Arrange the biscuits on a platter and garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped curry leaves for a vibrant and appetizing presentation.