| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 20 mins – 25 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| 4 cups all-purpose flour | 1/4 cup yogurt | 2 tablespoons vegetable oil | 1 teaspoon sugar |
| 2 teaspoons instant yeast | 1/2 teaspoon baking powder | 1 cup warm water | 2 teaspoons salt |
| 1 teaspoon white sesame seeds (optional) | 1/4 cup melted butter (optional) |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 264 | 4.5g | 1.8g | 44.9g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 0.4g | 1.8g | 7.9g | 0.98g |
About Taftan
Welcome to the world of delectable and hearty breads, our star today is none other than the flavorful Taftan. This classic Persian bread has a heavenly soft texture, a slight tang from the yogurt, and a pure, simple flavor profile that lets it shines equally well on its own, or as a sop for enticing dips, curries, and more.
Taftan, also spelt as taftoon, is a type of leavened bread traditionally baked in Iran, Pakistan, and India. It’s often compared to Pita and Naan, thanks to the way it puffs up in the oven creating an airy crumb. However, unlike its counterparts, Taftan uses oil and yogurt in its dough, which provides the bread with its distinct soft, tender crumb, and subtle tangy note. The hint of sugar balanced by salt, the warm hint of yeast, and the optional dash of sesame seeds for texture each play their role in creating this unique bread.
The Enduring Story of Taftan
Taftan’s history is as rich as its flavor. This humble bread has been feeding families for centuries, quite literally serving as an edible utensil to scoop up stews and curries. Traditionally baked in a clay oven or ‘tandoor’, it’s a staple food in Iranian cuisine. You can learn more about the beautiful intertwining of food and culture in Persian cooking here.
The Versatility of Taftan
Beyond its traditional role, Taftan is highly versatile. It makes excellent sandwiches – both cold and hot. It can be served alongside spiced lentils and vegetable dishes, or with an eggplant dip like Baba Ghanoush or the popular Persian walnut and pomegranate dip, Fesenjan (recipe here). The bread itself is also brilliant when brushed with some melted butter and toasted – crispy, yet tender!
In essence, Taftan is a bread that deserves a place in your culinary repertoire – for its simplicity, its diversity, and, most importantly, its ability to bring a little part of Persian history into your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned bread baker or a beginner, there’s a sense of satisfaction to be had in producing your own loaf. So why not give it a try? After all, the breaking of bread is a universal sign of peace and friendship. And who knows – you may just fall in love with the wonderful world of Taftan!
What You’ll Need
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup yogurt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon white sesame seeds for topping (optional)
- 1/4 cup melted butter for brushing (optional)
Method
Step One
Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine your warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and leave it to rest for about 10-15 minutes. You will notice it start to froth – indicating that it is ready.
Step Two
In a large bowl, combine your all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. Make a well in the centre. Pour the yeast mixture, yogurt, and vegetable oil into this well.
Step Three
Mix the ingredients together using your hands or a wooden spoon. Continue to mix until it forms a dough. If it’s too sticky, you can add a bit more flour. If it’s too dry, add a bit more warm water.
Step Four
Once your dough is formed, knead it on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes. This will make the dough elastic and smooth.
Step Five
Place the kneaded dough back into the bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and leave it in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Step Six
Preheat your oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up. If you don’t have one, a regular baking tray will do.
Step Seven
Divide the risen dough into 8 equal parts. Roll each part into a ball, then flatten it with a rolling pin into a circular shape. The thickness should be about 1/8 inch.
Step Eight
Transfer the flattened dough onto your heated pizza stone or baking tray. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, if using. Bake in the preheated oven for about 2-3 minutes, or until it puffs up and becomes golden brown.
Step Nine
Remove the taftan from the oven and immediately brush with melted butter, if using. This will give your taftan a nice shine and add some flavour. Repeat the process for the rest of the dough balls.
Step Ten
Let the taftan cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade taftan with curry, soup, or any of your favourite dishes!
