How to Bake Authentic Indian Biscuits at Home
Are you craving the delightful crunch of authentic Indian biscuits? Baking these treats at home is easier than you might think! In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process using traditional recipes and tips for achieving the perfect texture and taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To get started, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (maida)
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon cardamom powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup milk (or as needed)
- Chopped nuts (optional for garnishing)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process is vital for the texture of your biscuits.
Next, sift the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cardamom powder, and salt into the bowl. Mix everything until the ingredients are well combined.
Add milk gradually to the mixture, kneading until you have a soft, pliable dough. You may not need all the milk, so add it little by little. Avoid over-kneading, as this can make the biscuits tough.
2. Shape the Biscuits
Once your dough is ready, take small portions and roll them into balls about one inch in diameter. Flatten each ball slightly with your palm or the back of a spoon. If desired, press a nut into the center of each biscuit for added flavor and decoration.
3. Baking the Biscuits
Line a baking tray with parchment paper and arrange the biscuits, leaving enough space between them to allow for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
4. Cooling and Storing
Once baked, remove the tray from the oven and allow the biscuits to cool on the tray for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Proper cooling helps maintain the crunchiness of the biscuits.
Store your authentic Indian biscuits in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They can last for several weeks, making them a perfect snack for tea time or a delightful treat for guests.
Tips for Perfecting Your Indian Biscuits
- Experiment with flavors by adding ingredients like cocoa powder for chocolate biscuits or turmeric for a unique twist.
- Adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste preference. Indian biscuits can range from mildly sweet to indulgently sweet.
- For a richer flavor, consider using ghee instead of butter.
Baking authentic Indian biscuits at home is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with delicious aromas. Enjoy these biscuits with your favorite tea, and share them with friends and family for a taste of India right at home!