Gujarati Style Bhakri Recipe – A Multigrain Flatbread
Bhakri is a delightful, rustic flatbread that holds a special place in Gujarati and Maharashtrian cuisine. Traditionally prepared in every Gujarati home, this flatbread has variations in texture, thickness, and flavor. The beauty of Bhakri lies in its versatility as it is made using different combinations of flours, often wheat and jowar (sorghum). With its crispy outer layer and soft, tender interior, Bhakri pairs wonderfully with a range of accompaniments such as curry, chutney, or even enjoyed with a cup of masala chai. This recipe features a blend of wholesome flours, complemented by aromatic spices, making it diabetic-friendly while delivering on taste.
Course: North Indian Breakfast
Cuisine: Maharashtrian & Gujarati
Diet: Diabetic-Friendly
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Whole Wheat Flour | 1 cup |
Jowar Flour (Sorghum) | 1 cup |
Ghee | 4 tablespoons |
Ajwain (Carom seeds) | 2 teaspoons |
Whole Black Peppercorns (coarsely pounded) | 1 teaspoon |
Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
Dry ginger powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time
- 20 minutes
Cooking Time
- 30 minutes
Instructions
-
Prepare the Dough:
- Begin by combining the whole wheat flour, jowar flour, ghee, ajwain (carom seeds), black peppercorns, turmeric powder, dry ginger powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl.
- Gradually add water, a little at a time, to form a firm dough. The dough should not be too soft but must be pliable enough to roll out.
- Once the dough is ready, cover it with a damp cloth and let it rest for 15 minutes. This resting period helps the dough to become more manageable and softer.
-
Rolling the Bhakris:
- After the dough has rested, divide it into 10 equal portions.
- Roll each portion into a smooth ball, then flatten it gently to form a 4-inch diameter circle using your hands or a rolling pin. If necessary, dust the dough with a little flour to prevent it from sticking.
-
Cooking the Bhakris:
- Preheat an iron skillet or tawa on medium heat. Once it is hot, place one of the rolled-out Bhakris onto the skillet.
- Cook the Bhakri on one side for about 2 minutes, or until you see small bubbles start to form. Flip it over and cook the other side for another 2 minutes.
- Now, using a wooden press or flat spatula, apply light pressure on the Bhakri, which helps it cook evenly and ensures a soft and fluffy inside. You’ll notice golden brown spots forming as it cooks.
- Flip the Bhakri once more, and cook both sides until they are golden brown and slightly crispy.
-
Optional Final Step – Ghee for Extra Flakiness:
- For an extra touch of richness and flakiness, you can brush the Bhakri with ghee while it is still hot after it has been cooked on both sides.
-
Serve:
- Bhakri can be enjoyed immediately with a variety of side dishes. It pairs wonderfully with Lauki Channa Dal (bottle gourd and chickpea curry) and a bowl of yogurt for a wholesome meal. You can also pack it for lunch or enjoy it as a snack with Masala Chai during travel.
Tips:
- If you prefer a softer Bhakri, roll it out a little thicker. However, if you want it crispier, roll it thinner.
- You can experiment with adding different spices, such as cumin or sesame seeds, to alter the flavor according to your taste.
- Bhakri can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container, making it perfect for long journeys or packed lunches.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Nutrient | Value |
---|---|
Calories | 150 |
Carbohydrates | 25g |
Protein | 3g |
Fat | 5g |
Fiber | 4g |
Sodium | 150mg |
Potassium | 100mg |
Calcium | 20mg |
Enjoy this traditional Gujarati-style Bhakri as part of a balanced meal that is both satisfying and nutritious, perfect for diabetics and health-conscious individuals alike!