Gram or chickpea flour or besan has a warm nutty flavor, and is high in protein and gluten free. It is combined with whole wheat flour that binds the dough together and is also a nutritious grain, thus making this bread a tasty and healthy alternative. Toasted sesame seeds add a nice delicate crunch along with the subtle sweetness of honey brushed onto the fresh warm breads, right before serving.
2 cups whole wheat flour, plus more for rolling and dusting
1 cup gram flour
Salt to taste
3 tablespoons clarified butter
2 tablespoons honey
3 tablespoons white sesame seeds, lightly roasted
In a large mixing bowl, combine both flours and salt and mix well. Add 1 1/4 cups of water, a little at a time, to form a pliable dough. Cover with a damp kitchen towel and let it rest for at least 30 minutes at room temperature.
Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Place one piece of the dough on a lightly floured surface and slightly flatten with your palm. Using a lightly floured rolling pin, roll out the dough to a 1/4-inch-thick round.
Heat a nonstick griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it. Place the rolled dough on the hot griddle and cook until each side is lightly browned, about 2 to 3 minutes on each side.
Remove bread to a serving plate. Lightly brush the bread with the honey and sprinkle with the toasted sesame.
Repeat the process with the remaining dough.
Serve hot.
Excerpted from Indian Harvest. Text and recipes copyright © Vikas Khanna 2015. Photographs copyright © Vikas Khanna and Michael Swamy 2015. Published by Bloomsbury USA, reprinted with permission.
Each week, The Splendid Table brings you stories that expand your world view, inspire you to try something new and show how food brings us together. We rely on you to do this. And, when you donate, you'll become a member of The Splendid Table Co-op. It's a community of like-minded individuals who love good food, good conversation and kitchen companionship. Splendid Table Co-op members will get exclusive content each month and have special opportunities for connecting with The Splendid Table team.
Donate today for as little as $5.00 a month. Your gift only takes a few minutes and has a lasting impact on The Splendid Table and you'll be welcomed into The Splendid Table Co-op.