Aromatic Onion Salad & Chewy Bhatura Bread
Aromatic Onion Salad & Chewy Bhatura Bread
The Perfect Pair for Indian Chicken Curry: Aromatic Onion Salad and Chewy Bhatura Bread
Discover how to make a delightful onion salad that perfectly complements rich Indian chicken curry, alongside warm and chewy bhatura bread. This recipe brings the authentic flavors of India right to your kitchen, made easily at home!
Bhatura Bread Ingredients- 1 cup whole wheat flour (approx. 120g)
- 1/3 cup warm water (approx. 80ml)
- 1 piece butter (approx. 15g)
- 1/2 tsp salt
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Let’s start by making the bhatura bread dough. First, sift the whole wheat flour to make it finer and softer. Gradually add warm water while mixing, just enough to form a soft dough that doesn’t stick to your hands. Add 1/2 tsp of salt and knead everything together until the dough is smooth and cohesive. Place the finished dough in a clean bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let it rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This resting period allows the gluten to relax, making the dough more pliable and easier to work with.
Step 2
Now, let’s prepare the rested dough. Gently melt the piece of butter in the microwave for about 30 seconds until it’s soft. Divide the rested dough into 6 equal portions. Take each portion and flatten it slightly with your palm. Then, using a rolling pin, roll out each piece as thinly as possible. Brush the melted butter evenly over one side of the rolled-out dough. Carefully roll up the dough, making sure the buttered side is on the inside. Once rolled, coil the dough into a spiral shape, similar to a cinnamon roll, to prevent it from unraveling. Gently press down on the spiral to flatten it, and then lightly roll it again with the rolling pin to achieve the final bread shape. Be careful not to roll it too thin, as it might tear during cooking.
Step 3
It’s time to cook the bhatura bread to perfection! Heat a dry pan (without any oil) over medium-low heat. Place the shaped bread onto the hot pan. Using a spatula, press down gently on the bread as it cooks, flipping it over to brown both sides until golden and slightly crisp. After cooking on the pan, carefully remove the bread. Now, hold the bread directly over a gas flame using tongs or a spatula. Continuously flip the bread over the flame, allowing it to char slightly and develop a wonderful smoky aroma. This direct flame cooking gives the bhatura its signature slightly puffed texture and imparts a delicious smoky flavor. Cook for a short time, watching for puffing, and avoid burning.
Step 4
Arrange the freshly cooked bhatura bread beautifully on a serving plate. While it’s still warm, brush the remaining melted butter over the top of the bread for an extra layer of moisture and rich, buttery flavor. And there you have it – delicious bhatura bread, crispy on the outside and wonderfully chewy on the inside! Enjoy the warmth and irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread.
Step 5
Now, let’s make a super simple onion salad! Peel and rinse half an onion, then slice it thinly into slivers. Place the sliced onions in a bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Gently toss the onions to coat them with the dressing, ensuring they remain crisp. Mix everything well. This incredibly easy onion salad is ready! It’s wonderfully refreshing and provides a bright, zesty counterpoint to rich dishes like Indian curry, cutting through any richness and enhancing the overall meal experience. It’s simple, but tastes amazing!
