Baqerkhani
A classic Mughlai layered bread, Baqerkhani is delightfully crisp on the outside with soft, flaky layers inside. Infused with the subtle aroma of cardamom and ghee, this slightly sweet and savory bread is perfect with tea or a rich curry.
For 6 servings
Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the maida, rava, sugar, salt, baking powder, and cardamom powder. Add 3 tablespoons of the melted ghee to the flour mixture. Rub it with your fingertips until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Gradually add the warm milk and knead for 8-10 minutes to form a soft, smooth, and pliable dough. Add a little more milk if the dough feels too stiff. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
Laminate and shape the dough: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Divide the rested dough into 6 equal portions and roll them into smooth balls. Take one ball and roll it out into a very thin large circle, like a chapati. Brush the surface generously with melted ghee and sprinkle lightly with some dry maida. Fold one-third of the circle over the center, then fold the opposite third over it, creating a rectangle. Brush with ghee again and fold the rectangle in half to form a square. Gently roll the square into a thick circle, about 1/2 inch thick and 5 inches in diameter. Repeat this process for all the dough balls.
Prepare for baking: Place the shaped baqerkhanis on the prepared baking sheet. Prick the entire surface of each baqerkhani with a fork. This prevents them from puffing up completely. Brush the tops with the lightly beaten egg wash. Sprinkle evenly with poppy seeds.
Bake the Baqerkhani: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown, crisp, and cooked through. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
Serve warm with your favorite curry or a cup of chai.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Do not skimp on the ghee during the layering process; it's what creates the signature flaky texture.
- 2Resting the dough is a crucial step to relax the gluten, making it easier to roll and fold.
- 3Pricking the dough with a fork is important to prevent it from puffing up like a puri and helps it cook evenly.
- 4For an extra rich flavor, you can use a mix of milk and yogurt to knead the dough.
- 5Store leftover Baqerkhani in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in a warm oven to restore crispness.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Replace ghee with vegan butter or coconut oil. Use a plant-based milk like almond or soy milk for kneading and skip the egg wash. Brush with plant-based milk before baking.
savorySavory
Reduce the sugar to 1 teaspoon. Add 1 teaspoon of nigella seeds (kalonji) and 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh cilantro or mint to the dough.
nut freeNut free
This recipe is naturally nut-free. Ensure your ghee and other ingredients have not been cross-contaminated.
