Braided Almond Roll Recipe
Indulging in the rich, nutty flavors of a Braided Almond Roll is a delightful experience that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also adds a touch of elegance to any snack table. This recipe combines the goodness of semolina and almonds with the warmth of spices, making it a perfect companion for your evening tea or coffee. Below, you’ll find a detailed guide to crafting these delicious rolls, complete with ingredients, nutritional information, and step-by-step instructions that will ensure your success in the kitchen.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All Purpose Flour (Maida) | 1-1/2 cups |
| Active Dry Yeast | 1 teaspoon |
| Butter | 1 tablespoon |
| Water (Luke warm) | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Sooji (Semolina/Rava) | 1 cup |
| Ghee | 1/4 cup |
| Milk | 2 tablespoons |
| Saffron strands | 2 |
| Sugar (adjustable) | 1 cup |
| Water | 2 cups |
| Badam (Almond) – sliced | 2 tablespoons |
| Raisins | 2 tablespoons |
| Honey (to drizzle) | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximately)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 34 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 10 g |
| Total Fat | 8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
Preparation Steps
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Prepare the Dough: Start by combining the all-purpose flour, salt, and active dry yeast in a large mixing bowl. Gradually knead this mixture into a soft dough by adding a little lukewarm water as needed. Once the dough reaches a smooth consistency, incorporate the tablespoon of butter, kneading it into the mixture until fully combined. Cover the dough with a clean cloth and let it rest for about 30 minutes, allowing it to rise.
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Saffron Milk Mixture: While the dough is resting, take a small bowl and mix the 2 tablespoons of milk with the saffron strands. Set this aside to allow the saffron to infuse the milk with its vibrant color and flavor.
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Sauté the Semolina: In a thick-bottomed pan, heat the ghee over medium heat. Once hot, add the green cardamom powder and the semolina (sooji). Sauté this mixture, stirring continuously until it releases a delightful aroma and turns light brown. Carefully transfer the sautéed semolina to a bowl and set it aside to cool.
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Make the Sugar Syrup: In the same pan, add 2 cups of water and bring it to a rolling boil. Stir in 1 cup of sugar and let it boil until the sugar fully dissolves.
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Combine Ingredients: Once the sugar has dissolved, reduce the heat and add the sautéed semolina, half of the sliced almonds, the raisins, and the saffron-infused milk. Cover the pan and let it cook on low heat until the semolina absorbs the liquid and thickens. This should take about 10-15 minutes. Once cooked, turn off the heat and allow it to cool to room temperature.
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Shape the Rolls: After the dough has rested, divide it into four equal portions. Roll out one portion into a rectangular shape using a rolling pin, trimming the edges to create a neat rectangle. Cut slits along both longer sides of the rectangle, about 1 inch apart and 2-3 inches deep.
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Fill and Braid: Place a portion of the cooled semolina filling in the center of the rectangle. Fold the strips of dough over the filling, alternating sides to create a braided effect. Pinch the ends to seal the filling inside.
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Bake the Rolls: Preheat your oven to 250°C (482°F). Brush the braided rolls with melted butter to give them a golden finish. Place the rolls on a baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
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Finishing Touches: Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven and transfer them to a serving plate. Sprinkle the remaining sliced almonds on top and drizzle with honey for added sweetness.
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Serve: Enjoy your Braided Almond Rolls warm, ideally paired with a cup of Adrak Chai (ginger tea) for a truly delightful experience.
Enjoyment Tips
These Braided Almond Rolls not only serve as a scrumptious snack but also as a fantastic addition to festive occasions. The balance of sweet and nutty flavors makes them a hit among both adults and children. Feel free to experiment with additional fillings or toppings to personalize your rolls. Whether shared with family or enjoyed solo, this recipe is bound to elevate your culinary repertoire!
Conclusion
Creating these Braided Almond Rolls is not just about following a recipe; it’s about embracing the love of cooking and sharing delightful moments over delicious food. As you perfect this recipe, remember that every roll tells a story, filled with warmth and flavor that can only come from your kitchen. Enjoy the process, and let each bite transport you to a world of culinary bliss.
