Chinese Buddhist Chur Chur Naan

Ingredients

In this Chinese Buddhist adaptation, the traditional Indian Chur Chur Naan is modified to suit the principles of Chinese Buddhist cuisine. The original recipe is altered to exclude any animal products, such as ghee or yogurt, and instead incorporates plant-based alternatives. Additionally, the spices and flavors are adjusted to align with the subtler taste profiles of Chinese Buddhist cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Chur chur naan, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) whole wheat flour 2 cups (240g) whole wheat flour
• 1/4 cup (60ml) sesame oil 1/4 cup (60ml) sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon (15g) sesame seeds 1 tablespoon (15g) sesame seeds
• 1 teaspoon (5g) baking powder 1 teaspoon (5g) baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) salt 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) salt
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) ground coriander 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) ground coriander
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) turmeric powder 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) turmeric powder
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) black pepper 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) black pepper
• 1/4 cup (60ml) warm water (adjust as needed) 1/4 cup (60ml) warm water (adjust as needed)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 1.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 1g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, baking powder, salt, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, and black pepper.
2. 2.
   Add the sesame oil to the dry ingredients and mix well until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. 3.
   Gradually add warm water to the mixture and knead until a soft and pliable dough is formed. Adjust the water quantity as needed.
4. 4.
   Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
5. 5.
   Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a thin circle.
6. 6.
   Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and place the rolled naan on it.
7. 7.
   Cook the naan on both sides until golden brown spots appear, brushing each side with a little sesame oil.
8. 8.
   Sprinkle sesame seeds on top of the naan while it is still hot.
9. 9.
   Repeat the process for the remaining dough portions.
10. 10.
    Serve the Chinese Buddhist Chur Chur Naan hot with a side of vegetarian curry or stir-fried vegetables.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Sesame seeds — Toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan over low heat until they turn golden brown for enhanced flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a softer naan, cover the cooked bread with a clean kitchen towel to retain moisture.
• Experiment with different spices such as fennel seeds or cardamom for a unique flavor twist.
• Add finely chopped vegetables like spinach or grated carrots to the dough for added nutrition.

Serving advice

Serve the Chinese Buddhist Chur Chur Naan as a main course alongside a bowl of vegetarian curry or stir-fried vegetables. It can also be enjoyed as a standalone snack or appetizer.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden-brown Chinese Buddhist Chur Chur Naan on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley. Serve it with a side of vegetarian curry or stir-fried vegetables for an appealing and wholesome presentation.