Middle Eastern Breads > Shirmals

Shirmal with Saffron and Cardamom Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 teaspoon ground saffron
- 1/2 cup warm water

Special Equipment Needed:
- Large bowl
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Pastry brush

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Add the oil, yogurt, sugar, cardamom, and saffron, and mix until combined.
3. Gradually add the warm water, stirring until a soft dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5 minutes, then cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
5. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and roll each piece into a thin circle.
7. Place the circles on a baking sheet and brush with oil.
8. Bake for 10 minutes, or until golden brown.

Time:
Preparation Time: 40 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Temperature: 375°F (190°C)
Serving Size: 8 servings

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 140
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 3g

Substitutions for Ingredients
- Plain yogurt can be substituted with Greek yogurt.
- Vegetable oil can be substituted with melted butter.
- All-purpose flour can be substituted with whole wheat flour.

Variations:
- For a sweeter shirmal, add 1 tablespoon of honey to the dough.
- For a spicier shirmal, add 1/4 teaspoon of ground cumin.

Tips and Tricks:
- For a crispier shirmal, brush with melted butter instead of oil.
- For a softer shirmal, add an extra tablespoon of warm water to the dough.

Storage Instructions:
Store the shirmal in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat the shirmal in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 minutes.

Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the shirmal with a dollop of yogurt and a sprinkle of ground cardamom.
- Serve the shirmal with a side of honey or jam.

Garnishes:
- Sprinkle with ground cardamom
- Drizzle with honey

Pairings:
- Yogurt
- Jam
- Honey

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Cucumber and tomato salad
- Lentil soup
- Roasted vegetables

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of warm water.
- If the dough is too wet, add a tablespoon of all-purpose flour.

Food Safety Advice:
- Store the shirmal in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Discard any leftovers after 3 days.

Food History:
Shirmal is a traditional Persian flatbread that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is typically served with yogurt and honey and is a popular breakfast dish.

Flavor Profiles:
Shirmal has a mild flavor with hints of cardamom and saffron.

Serving Suggestions:
Shirmal can be served with yogurt, jam, honey, or any other topping of your choice.

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Region: Persian

Taste: Sweet, Savory, Aromatic, Spicy