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Layered Paratha Recipe
Introduction
Layered paratha, also known as flaky flatbread, is a popular dish in South Asian cuisine, cherished for its buttery texture and crispy layers. This bread is often served with curries, vegetables, or simply enjoyed with a dab of butter or pickles. The technique to create those perfect, flaky layers might seem challenging, but with patience and practice, you can master this delightful culinary art.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons melted ghee (clarified butter), plus extra for brushing
- Water, as needed for kneading
- Butter or oil, for cooking
Instructions
- Dough Preparation:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add enough water to form a soft but not sticky dough.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until it’s smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
- Rolling and Layering:
- Divide the dough into equal-sized balls. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one ball into a thin circle.
- Brush the surface generously with melted ghee. This helps create the layers.
- Carefully fold the dough into a pleated round, similar to folding a fan, then roll the pleated dough into a spiral, tucking the end underneath.
- Let the shaped dough rest while you repeat the process with the remaining dough balls.
- Cooking the Paratha:
- Take one spiral dough ball at a time, dust lightly with flour, and roll out gently to a flat round, being careful not to press too hard to preserve the layers.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and place the rolled-out dough onto the skillet. Cook until the bottom starts to brown and bubbles form on the surface, then flip.
- Brush the top with a little butter or oil and flip again. Cook until both sides are golden brown and crispy, pressing gently with a spatula.
- Repeat with the remaining dough.
Conclusion
Layered paratha is a delightful and versatile bread that can elevate any meal with its rich, flaky texture. Whether served with a lavish curry or a simple side of yogurt, these parathas are sure to impress. The key to perfect paratha lies in the rolling and layering technique, which, once mastered, allows you to create this culinary masterpiece with ease. Enjoy the process and the delicious rewards of your cooking!
