Tandoori Bread is a delicious, flavorful flatbread that partners beautifully with a variety of dishes, transporting your taste buds straight to the vibrant culinary traditions of India. Ever since I first tasted a warm piece of tandoori bread fresh out of the tandoor, I’ve been hooked on its smoky flavor and chewy texture. This bread is perfect for soaking up rich curries or enjoying on its own, making it an excellent companion for both weeknight dinners and festive gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just looking to impress friends at your next get-together, this recipe is a must-try!
Why you’ll love this dish
What makes Tandoori Bread special? For starters, it’s incredibly versatile. This homemade flatbread is not just a side; it’s a dish that can elevate any meal. The ingredients are simple, the process is straightforward, and the end result is something that looks and tastes like it came straight from a high-end restaurant.
Cooking tandoori bread at home allows you to customize it to your own taste preferences, whether that means adding herbs, spices, or even incorporating whole wheat for a healthful twist. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly option that the whole family will love. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home or an impressive addition to your holiday spread, Tandoori Bread is sure to delight.
"Absolutely loved this Tandoori Bread! It’s the perfect companion for my chicken curry. Soft, fluffy, and so easy to make!" – A satisfied home cook
The cooking process explained
Making Tandoori Bread is simpler than you might think. You’ll start by mixing your dough, allowing it to rise until it reaches the perfect consistency. Then, after rolling it out, the real magic happens as you cook it in a tandoor or on a hot griddle, giving it that signature smoky flavor. This step-by-step overview will guide you through the entire procedure, ensuring a delightful baking experience from start to finish.
Gather these items
To make your own Tandoori Bread, ensure you have the following key ingredients on hand:
- All-purpose flour (or whole wheat for a healthier alternative)
- Yogurt
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Warm water (for the dough)
- Optional: spices like cumin or ajwain for added flavor
Feel free to play around with some substitutions—yogurt can be replaced with buttermilk, and you can omit or add ingredients based on your diet preferences.
Step-by-step instructions
- Prepare your dough: In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add yogurt and warm water until a soft dough forms.
- Knead: Knead the dough for about 5–7 minutes until smooth. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
- Divide and roll: Once rested, divide the dough into equal portions. Roll each portion into a circle, about ¼ inch thick.
- Cook: Preheat your tandoor or skillet. For tandoor, place the rolled bread inside. On a skillet, cook on medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
- Serve hot: Brush with melted butter or ghee.
Best ways to enjoy it
Tandoori Bread shines when paired with rich, flavorful dishes. Serve it alongside your favorite curries—think butter chicken, chana masala, or saag paneer. It’s also delightful with yogurt dips and chutneys for a lighter snack option. Consider serving this bread warm, garnished with fresh herbs for an appealing look on your table.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To store your Tandoori Bread, allow it to cool completely, then stack the pieces in an airtight container or wrap them in plastic wrap. You can refrigerate the bread for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing. Simply place each piece of bread with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking, and you can stash it away for up to a month.
When reheating, a quick toss in a hot skillet brings back its comforting chewiness, ensuring it tastes just as good as when it was first made.
Pro chef tips
- Hydration is key: The perfect dough consistency is vital for achieving that wonderful fluffiness. Don’t be afraid to adjust the water as needed.
- Preheat correctly: Always ensure your tandoor or skillet is hot enough. This will give your bread that coveted char and smoky flavor.
- Flavor experiment: Feel free to add garlic, herbs, or even cheese into your dough for exciting variations.
Creative twists
Looking to mix things up? Consider these variations for your Tandoori Bread:
- Herb-infused dough: Add fresh chopped herbs like cilantro or basil to the dough for fragrant, vibrant bread.
- Spice up: Incorporate spices such as garlic powder, chili powder, or za’atar for a unique flavor profile.
- Stuffed bread: Try stuffing the flatbread with spiced potatoes or paneer before rolling it out for a delicious surprise inside.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare Tandoori Bread?
From start to finish, expect to spend about an hour, including resting time for the dough.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Absolutely! Whole wheat flour creates a denser bread but adds healthy fiber. Just keep an eye on hydration, as whole wheat absorbs more water.
What’s the best way to freeze Tandoori Bread?
Place the cooled pieces of bread in a single layer separated by parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag or container to avoid them sticking together.
In no time, you’ll master Tandoori Bread, perfectly complementing your next meal with its unique flavor and texture. Happy cooking!
Tandoori Bread
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2 cups All-purpose flour or whole wheat flour Whole wheat flour for a healthier alternative
- 1 cup Yogurt Can substitute with buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon Baking powder
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 cup Warm water Adjust as needed for dough consistency
Optional Flavorings
- Spices like cumin or ajwain For added flavor
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add yogurt and warm water until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 5–7 minutes until smooth.
- Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
Cooking
- Once rested, divide the dough into equal portions.
- Roll each portion into a circle, about ¼ inch thick.
- Preheat your tandoor or skillet.
- For tandoor, place the rolled bread inside. On a skillet, cook on medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
- Serve hot and brush with melted butter or ghee.
