Sikkimese-inspired Cardamom Flatbread

Ingredients

In this Sikkimese-inspired version of Nan-e Shirmal, we incorporate the flavors of Sikkim by adding cardamom to the traditional Iranian recipe. This infusion of cardamom gives the flatbread a unique and aromatic taste, making it a perfect fit for Sikkimese cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Nan-e shirmal, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) sugar 1/4 cup (50g) sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup (60ml) warm milk 1/4 cup (60ml) warm milk
• 1/4 cup (60ml) warm water 1/4 cup (60ml) warm water
• 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter) 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
• Sliced almonds, for garnish (optional) Sliced almonds, for garnish (optional)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 37g, 10g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, yeast, ground cardamom, and salt.
2. 2.
   Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the warm milk, warm water, and ghee.
3. 3.
   Mix the ingredients together until a soft dough forms.
4. 4.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. 5.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
6. 6.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
7. 7.
   Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles and divide it into small portions.
8. 8.
   Roll each portion into a round flatbread, about 1/4 inch thick.
9. 9.
   Place the flatbreads on a baking sheet and sprinkle them with sliced almonds, if desired.
10. 10.
    Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the flatbreads turn golden brown.
11. 11.
    Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ghee — Ghee adds a rich and buttery flavor to the flatbread. If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can substitute ghee with an equal amount of vegetable oil.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more pronounced cardamom flavor, you can crush the cardamom pods and grind the seeds before adding them to the dough.
• Serve the flatbread warm with a cup of Sikkimese tea for a delightful combination of flavors.
• If you prefer a sweeter flatbread, you can increase the amount of sugar in the dough.

Serving advice

Serve the Sikkimese-inspired Cardamom Flatbread as a breakfast dish or as a snack. It pairs well with Sikkimese tea or can be enjoyed on its own.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden-brown flatbreads on a platter and garnish them with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or sliced almonds for an elegant presentation.