Bhojpuri Nut-filled Sweet Bread

Ingredients

In this adaptation of Potica from Slovenian cuisine to Bhojpuri cuisine, we have incorporated the flavors and ingredients commonly found in Bhojpuri cooking. The original recipe uses a variety of fillings, including chocolate, honey, and dried fruits, whereas our Bhojpuri version focuses on a nut-filled filling with aromatic spices. Additionally, we have adjusted the cooking techniques and flavors to align with the traditional Bhojpuri culinary practices. We alse have the original recipe for Potica, so you can check it out.

• For the dough: For the dough:
• 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• For the filling: For the filling:
• 1 cup (150g) almonds, finely chopped 1 cup (150g) almonds, finely chopped
• 1 cup (150g) cashews, finely chopped 1 cup (150g) cashews, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup (75g) pistachios, finely chopped 1/2 cup (75g) pistachios, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup (60ml) melted ghee (clarified butter) 1/4 cup (60ml) melted ghee (clarified butter)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 38g, 10g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. 3.
   Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
4. 4.
   In the meantime, prepare the filling by combining the chopped nuts, sugar, cardamom, and cinnamon in a bowl.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a round baking pan.
6. 6.
   Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a rectangular shape on a floured surface.
7. 7.
   Brush the melted ghee over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
8. 8.
   Spread the nut filling evenly over the dough, pressing it gently.
9. 9.
   Starting from one of the longer sides, carefully roll the dough into a tight log.
10. 10.
    Transfer the rolled dough to the greased baking pan, tucking the ends underneath to seal.
11. 11.
    Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
12. 12.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
13. 13.
    Once cooled, slice the Bhojpuri Nut-filled Sweet Bread into thick slices and serve.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almonds — Ensure the almonds are finely chopped to evenly distribute the nutty flavor throughout the bread.
• Cashews — Finely chop the cashews to create a smooth and consistent texture in the filling.
• Pistachios — Use unsalted pistachios for a balanced flavor profile in the filling.
• Ghee — Melt the ghee gently to ensure it is in a liquid state for easy brushing onto the dough.
• Active dry yeast — Activate the yeast in warm milk to ensure proper fermentation and rise of the dough.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, toast the nuts lightly before chopping them.
• Add a pinch of saffron strands to the filling for an aromatic twist.
• Serve the Bhojpuri Nut-filled Sweet Bread warm with a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• This bread can be enjoyed as a dessert or with a cup of tea for a delightful snack.

Serving advice

Serve the Bhojpuri Nut-filled Sweet Bread as a centerpiece dessert during festive occasions or as a special treat for family and friends. Accompany it with a warm beverage, such as masala chai, to enhance the flavors.

Presentation advice

Present the Bhojpuri Nut-filled Sweet Bread by arranging thick slices on a decorative platter. Dust the top with powdered sugar and garnish with a sprinkle of chopped pistachios for an elegant touch.