Osmania Biscuits Recipe: A Delicious Irani Snack
Osmania Biscuits are a traditional and delightful treat, often paired with Irani chai or enjoyed as a standalone snack. Originating from the bustling tea houses of Hyderabad, these biscuits are known for their delicate texture, slightly sweet flavor, and buttery richness. Soft yet crisp, they are perfect for dipping into a hot cup of tea, making them a popular choice in Indian bakeries. If you’re craving this delightful treat, here’s a detailed recipe for making Osmania Biscuits at home.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | 200 grams |
| Vivatta Maida (All-Purpose Flour) | 260 grams |
| Milk Powder | 3 tablespoons |
| Soy Flour (toasted, optional) | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 100 grams |
| Baking Powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Milk (for brushing before baking) | As needed |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 130 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 16 grams |
| Proteins | 2 grams |
| Fat | 7 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 4 grams |
| Cholesterol | 20 mg |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sugar | 7 grams |
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 12 biscuits
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Baking Sheets:
Begin by lining two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will prevent the biscuits from sticking and ensure an even bake. Set them aside. -
-
Sift Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, sift together the Vivatta Maida (all-purpose flour), salt, and baking powder. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and removes any lumps from the flour. -
Cream the Butter:
In a separate bowl, cream the unsalted butter using a rubber spatula or silicone spatula until it becomes soft and smooth. The butter should be at room temperature to achieve the perfect consistency for creaming. -
Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients (flour mixture) to the creamed butter, little by little. Use your fingers to gently incorporate the flour into the butter. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as the warmth from your hands may melt the butter, affecting its texture. -
Knead the Dough:
Once all the flour is incorporated, knead the dough lightly to incorporate air, making the mixture light and pale. This step ensures the biscuits have the signature texture – slightly crisp on the outside yet soft inside. -
Add Milk Powder, Soy Flour, and Sugar:
Now, add the milk powder, optional toasted soy flour, and powdered sugar to the dough. Continue kneading gently for a couple of minutes until everything is well combined. At this point, you can refrigerate the dough for a few minutes if it is sticky and difficult to handle. If the dough is manageable, you can proceed immediately. -
Divide and Roll the Dough:
Divide the dough into two equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion into a sheet about 1/4 inch thick. Using a round cookie cutter (around 3 inches in diameter), cut out the biscuits. Place the cut biscuits onto the prepared baking sheets. -
Brush with Milk:
Using a brush, lightly brush the tops of the biscuits with milk to give them a beautiful golden sheen when baked. This step also ensures that the biscuits bake evenly with a slight crispness on top. -
Refrigerate the Biscuits:
Place the prepared biscuits on the baking sheets in the refrigerator for a few minutes while you preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F). This step helps maintain the biscuit’s shape during baking. -
Bake the Biscuits:
Once the oven is preheated, bake the biscuits for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crisp. Keep an eye on them as they bake to ensure they don’t burn. The perfect Osmania biscuit should have a light golden hue on top and a slight crisp when bitten into. -
Cool and Store:
Remove the biscuits from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool to room temperature. Store them in an airtight container to preserve their freshness. These biscuits can last for up to two weeks, depending on the weather conditions. -
Serve:
Serve your homemade Osmania Biscuits with a cup of Irani Chai or enjoy them on their own as a sweet snack. They make a wonderful accompaniment to tea and are sure to be a hit with your friends and family.
Tips for Perfect Osmania Biscuits:
- Butter Temperature: Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming. Cold butter may result in a denser texture.
- Sifting Flour: Don’t skip the sifting step! This ensures the biscuits are light and airy and prevents any clumps in the dough.
- Milk Powder: Milk powder gives the biscuits a subtle creaminess. Don’t skip it for the best texture.
- Soy Flour: The soy flour is optional, but it adds a slight nuttiness to the biscuits, enhancing their flavor. If you don’t have soy flour, you can skip it or replace it with a small amount of almond flour for a different flavor profile.
- Chill the Dough: If the dough is too soft and sticky, refrigerating it for a few minutes will make it easier to handle and shape.
Why You’ll Love These Biscuits:
Osmania Biscuits are the epitome of lightness and flavor in every bite. Their crisp exterior and soft interior make them perfect for tea time, and their subtle sweetness pairs wonderfully with a strong cup of Irani Chai. These biscuits are easy to make and incredibly satisfying, offering a taste of Hyderabad’s rich culinary tradition right in your own kitchen. Whether you enjoy them as a midday snack or serve them at a gathering, these biscuits are bound to impress.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Tea: As their name suggests, Osmania Biscuits are best enjoyed with a warm, flavorful cup of Irani Chai (a spiced tea made with a mix of herbs and condensed milk).
- As a Snack: These biscuits also make for an excellent snack to serve at parties or tea-time gatherings. Their mild sweetness makes them a crowd-pleaser.
- With Jam or Butter: For an indulgent twist, spread a layer of jam or butter on your Osmania Biscuits for a richer treat.
Enjoy baking and tasting these wonderful Osmania Biscuits at home, and make sure to share them with family and friends for a truly delightful experience!
