Tabak Maaz, Lavasa Bread and Walnut Chutney

Ingredients

• 400 g Maida (Also known as all-purpose flour)
• 1 tsp Active Dry Yeast
• 1 tsp Sugar (To activate the yeast)
• 240 ml Warm Water (Around 105-115°F or 40-46°C)
• 1 tsp Salt
• 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil (Plus extra for greasing)
• 2 tbsp Milk (For brushing)
• 2 tbsp Sesame Seeds (For topping)
• 1 tbsp Poppy Seeds (Optional, for topping)

Instructions

1. 1

   Activate the Yeast

   • In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast.
   • Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. The mixture is ready when it becomes frothy and bubbly, indicating the yeast is active.
2. 2

   Prepare the Dough

   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the maida (all-purpose flour) and salt.
   • Create a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture and the vegetable oil.
   • Mix with a spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
   • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it is smooth, soft, and elastic. It should spring back when you press it gently.
3. 3

   First Rise

   • Lightly oil the mixing bowl and place the dough inside, turning it once to coat the top with oil.
   • Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
   • Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for 60-75 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Walnuts (shelled)
• 0.75 cup Hung Curd (Ensure it's thick and not sour. Strain regular curd if needed.)
• 2 pcs Green Chilies (Adjust to your spice preference.)
• 0.25 cup Mint Leaves (Fresh leaves, lightly packed.)
• 2 cloves Garlic
• 0.5 tsp Roasted Cumin Powder (Provides a deeper, nuttier flavor than regular cumin powder.)
• 0.5 tsp Salt (or to taste)
• 0.25 tsp Sugar (Optional, helps balance the tanginess of the curd.)
• 2 tbsp Water (As needed for blending.)

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the Walnuts: Soak 1 cup of walnuts in hot water for 30 minutes. This step softens them and makes peeling easier.

2. 2

   Peel the Walnuts: After soaking, drain the water completely. For a smoother, less bitter chutney, gently rub the walnuts between your fingers to remove the thin brown skin. This step is optional but highly recommended for the best flavor and texture.

3. 3

   Combine Ingredients: In a blender or food processor, add the peeled walnuts, 0.75 cup of hung curd, 2 chopped green chilies, 0.25 cup of fresh mint leaves, and 2 cloves of garlic.

4. 4

   Add Spices: Add 0.5 tsp of roasted cumin powder, 0.5 tsp of salt, and an optional 0.25 tsp of sugar to the blender.

5. 5

   Blend Until Smooth: Blend the mixture until you achieve a smooth, creamy paste. If the chutney is too thick to blend, add 1-2 tablespoons of water, one at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. Scrape down the sides of the blender jar periodically.

6. 6

   Chill and Serve: Transfer the chutney to a serving bowl. For the best flavor, chill it in the refrigerator for at least 20-30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.