How to Bake Indian Bread and Sweets at Home

Baking Indian bread and sweets at home is a delightful way to explore the rich flavors and diverse culinary traditions of India. Whether you're an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, making these delectable treats can be both fun and rewarding. In this article, we will guide you through the process of baking popular Indian bread and sweets using simple recipes and tips.

Baking Indian Bread

Indian breads are a staple in many households and are perfect to pair with a variety of dishes. Let’s explore two popular varieties: Roti and Naan.

1. Roti (Chapati)

Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Water as needed
- Ghee or butter (optional)

Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour and salt.
2. Gradually add water, mixing with your hands until the dough comes together. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into small balls and roll each ball out into a thin circle on a floured surface.
5. Heat a tava (griddle) over medium-high heat. Place the rolled-out roti on the tava and cook for about 30 seconds.
6. Flip the roti and cook for another 30 seconds. Press it down gently with a spatula for even cooking.
7. For a puffed-up roti, place it directly over the flame for a few seconds, or continue cooking on the tava until it puffs up. Brush with ghee or butter if desired.

2. Naan

Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup yogurt
- 2 tablespoons oil
- Water as needed

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine all-purpose flour, sugar, yeast, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add yogurt and oil, then mix in enough water to form a soft dough. Knead for about 5-10 minutes until smooth.
3. Cover and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Preheat your oven to its highest setting and place a baking stone or a baking tray upside down inside.
5. Divide the dough into small balls and roll each into an oval shape, about ¼ inch thick.
6. Optionally, sprinkle with chopped garlic or coriander for added flavor.
7. Carefully place the rolled naan onto the hot stone or tray and bake for 2-3 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven, brush with melted butter, and serve warm.

Baking Indian Sweets

Indian sweets are a treat for the senses and are popular during festivals and celebrations. Let's learn how to make two beloved options: Gulab Jamun and Besan Ladoo.

1. Gulab Jamun

Ingredients:
- 1 cup milk powder
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 tablespoons ghee
- Milk as needed (for forming a dough)
- Oil for frying
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 2-3 cardamom pods (crushed)

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the milk powder, all-purpose flour, and baking soda. Add ghee and mix until crumbly.
2. Gradually add milk to form a soft dough. Let it rest for 15 minutes.
3. In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and crushed cardamom. Heat until the sugar dissolves, then set aside to cool.
4. Heat oil in a deep pan. While the oil heats, shape small balls from the dough. Ensure they are smooth and crack-free.
5. Fry the balls in batches until golden brown, then transfer them to the sugar syrup. Soak for at least 30 minutes before serving.