Tsot
A classic Kashmiri bread, tsot is a small, round, and soft loaf with a delightful chew. Traditionally topped with poppy seeds and baked to a perfect golden brown, it's the ideal accompaniment for a warm cup of noon chai or your favorite Kashmiri curry.
For 4 servings
8 steps. 12 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Activate the Yeast
- b.In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast.
- c.Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes. It is ready when it becomes frothy and bubbly, indicating the yeast is active.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare the Dough
- b.In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the maida and salt.
- c.Create a well in the center. Pour in the activated yeast mixture, room temperature curd, and melted ghee.
- d.Use a spatula or your hands to mix everything until a shaggy dough forms.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Knead the Dough
- b.Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
- c.Knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth, soft, and elastic. It should spring back when you gently poke it.
- 4
Step 4
- a.First Rise (Fermentation)
- b.Lightly grease a clean bowl with ghee or oil.
- c.Place the kneaded dough in the bowl, turning it once to coat the surface.
- 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 size.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Shape the Tsot
- b.Gently punch down the risen dough to release the air.
- c.Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and roll each into a smooth ball.
- d.On a lightly floured surface, flatten each ball into a disc about 4 inches in diameter.
- e.Using your fingertips, press down firmly in the center of each disc to create a deep indentation, leaving a raised rim around the edge.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Second Rise (Proofing)
- b.Place the shaped tsot on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them.
- c.Cover them lightly with a cloth and let them rest for another 20-30 minutes. They will puff up slightly.
- 7
Step 7
- a.Prepare for Baking
- b.While the tsot are proofing, preheat your oven to 230°C (450°F).
- c.Once rested, gently brush the tops of each tsot with milk.
- d.Sprinkle a generous amount of poppy seeds over the top, pressing them lightly so they adhere.
- 8
Step 8
- a.Bake and Serve
- b.Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- c.The tsot are done when they are puffed up and have a deep golden-brown color.
- d.Remove from the oven and transfer to a wire rack to cool for a few minutes. Tsot is best served warm.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best texture, use a kitchen scale to measure your ingredients, especially the flour.
- 2Ensure your curd and other wet ingredients are at room temperature to encourage proper yeast activity.
- 3To check if the dough is perfectly kneaded, perform the 'windowpane test': a small piece of dough should stretch thin enough to see light through it without tearing.
- 4For a crispier crust, place a tray of hot water on the bottom rack of the oven while baking. The steam helps the bread rise better.
- 5Brush the warm tsot with a little melted ghee or butter as soon as they come out of the oven for a softer crust and richer flavor.
Adapt it for your goals.
Healthier Flour
Replace up to 50% of the maida with whole wheat flour (atta) for a nuttier flavor and more fiber. You may need to add a little extra water as whole wheat flour absorbs more liquid.
Different ToppingsDifferent Toppings
Instead of poppy seeds, try topping the tsot with white sesame seeds (til) or nigella seeds (kalonji) before baking.
Aromatic DoughAromatic Dough
Add 1 teaspoon of crushed fennel seeds (saunf) or dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi) to the flour for a fragrant twist.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Provides Quick Energy
The carbohydrates from the refined flour offer a quick and easily digestible source of energy to fuel your body and daily activities.
Supports Gut Health
The inclusion of curd (yogurt) introduces beneficial probiotics into the bread, which can help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in your gut microbiome.
Frequently asked questions
One piece of homemade Tsot contains approximately 230-240 calories, depending on the exact ingredients and size. A standard serving of two pieces would be around 460-480 calories.
