Bhojpuri Masala Bread

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Cuban bread is transformed into a spiced bread by incorporating Bhojpuri flavors. The addition of Bhojpuri spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and red chili powder gives the bread a distinct taste and aroma, setting it apart from the original Cuban bread. We alse have the original recipe for Cuban Bread, so you can check it out.

• 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 10g (2 tsp) active dry yeast 10g (2 tsp) active dry yeast
• 10g (2 tsp) sugar 10g (2 tsp) sugar
• 10g (2 tsp) salt 10g (2 tsp) salt
• 10g (2 tsp) cumin powder 10g (2 tsp) cumin powder
• 10g (2 tsp) coriander powder 10g (2 tsp) coriander powder
• 5g (1 tsp) turmeric powder 5g (1 tsp) turmeric powder
• 5g (1 tsp) red chili powder 5g (1 tsp) red chili powder
• 250ml (1 cup) warm water 250ml (1 cup) warm water
• 30ml (2 tbsp) olive oil 30ml (2 tbsp) olive oil

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 4g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 47g, 1g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and red chili powder.
3. 3.
   Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
4. 4.
   Mix the ingredients together until a dough forms.
5. 5.
   Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
6. 6.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
7. 7.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
8. 8.
   Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles and shape it into a loaf.
9. 9.
   Place the loaf on a baking sheet and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
10. 10.
    Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until it turns golden brown.
11. 11.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool before slicing.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cumin powder — Toast the cumin seeds in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant, then grind them into a powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, increase the amount of red chili powder according to your preference.
• Serve the Bhojpuri Masala Bread with a side of mint chutney or yogurt for a refreshing contrast to the spices.
• This bread is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but you can also toast it for a delicious breakfast or snack.

Serving advice

Serve the Bhojpuri Masala Bread warm or at room temperature. It can be enjoyed on its own as a snack or paired with your favorite Bhojpuri curry or dal for a complete meal.

Presentation advice

Slice the Bhojpuri Masala Bread into thick slices and arrange them on a platter. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for a pop of color. Serve alongside a bowl of mint chutney or raita for dipping.