Taftan
A soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet leavened bread from Mughlai cuisine. Flavored with saffron and cardamom, this rich flatbread is perfect for scooping up decadent curries like korma or nihari.
For 4 servings
7 steps. 12 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Activate Yeast & Prepare Saffron Milk
- b.In a small bowl, combine 3/4 cup of warm milk, 1 tbsp of sugar, and the active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it stand for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy and bubbly. This indicates the yeast is active.
- c.In another small bowl, add the saffron strands to 2 tbsp of warm milk. Let it soak to release its color and aroma. Set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare the Dough
- b.In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the maida (all-purpose flour), the remaining 1 tbsp of sugar, salt, and green cardamom powder.
- c.Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour in the frothy yeast mixture, room temperature curd, and 2 tbsp of melted ghee.
- d.Using a spatula or your hands, mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Knead and First Proof
- b.Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8-10 minutes until it is smooth, soft, and elastic. The dough should spring back when gently pressed.
- c.Form the dough into a ball and place it in a bowl lightly greased with ghee or oil.
- d.Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for 60-90 minutes, or until it has doubled in volume.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Shape and Second Proof
- b.Once risen, gently punch down the dough to release the trapped air. Divide it into 4 equal portions and roll each into a smooth ball.
- c.On a lightly floured surface, roll each ball into a 6-7 inch oval or round shape, about 1/4-inch thick.
- d.Place the shaped taftans on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using your fingertips, press dimples all over the surface to prevent them from puffing up completely during baking.
- e.Cover loosely with a cloth and let them rest for another 15 minutes.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Prepare for Baking
- b.While the taftans are resting, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- c.Gently brush the tops of the shaped dough with the saffron-infused milk you prepared earlier.
- d.Sprinkle generously with poppy seeds.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Bake the Taftan
- b.Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven on the middle rack.
- c.Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the taftans are puffed, golden brown on top, and cooked through.
- d.Remove from the oven immediately.
- 7
Step 7
- a.Finish and Serve
- b.As soon as the taftans come out of the oven, brush them generously with the remaining 2 tbsp of melted ghee.
- c.Serve warm with rich, gravy-based dishes like Nihari, Qorma, or Paneer Makhani.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the softest texture, ensure your curd (yogurt) is at room temperature before adding it to the dough.
- 2Kneading is key. If using a stand mixer, use the dough hook attachment and knead on medium-low speed for 6-8 minutes.
- 3The dimples on the surface are characteristic of Taftan and help it cook evenly without turning into a pita pocket.
- 4Don't overbake the taftan, as it can become dry and hard. Keep a close eye on it after the 10-minute mark.
- 5For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a pinch of nutmeg powder along with the cardamom.
Adapt it for your goals.
Healthier Version
Replace half of the maida (all-purpose flour) with whole wheat flour (atta) for added fiber. Note that this will result in a denser bread.
Nutty ToppingNutty Topping
Along with poppy seeds, sprinkle some slivered almonds or crushed pistachios on top before baking for a crunchy texture.
Savory Herb VersionSavory Herb Version
Omit the sugar and add 1 teaspoon of nigella seeds (kalonji) and 1 tablespoon of finely chopped cilantro to the dough for a savory twist.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Provides Quick Energy
The carbohydrates from the all-purpose flour are a primary source of energy, making Taftan a fulfilling accompaniment to a meal.
Contains Probiotics
The use of curd (yogurt) introduces beneficial probiotics to the bread, which can support gut health and digestion.
Mood-Lifting Properties
Saffron, used for flavor and color, is known in traditional medicine for its potential mood-enhancing and antioxidant properties.
Frequently asked questions
Taftan is a richer, slightly sweeter, and more cake-like bread compared to Naan. It is leavened with yeast and enriched with milk, yogurt, and ghee, giving it a softer, more delicate texture. Naan is typically chewier and traditionally cooked in a tandoor.