Ajwain, known as carom seeds in English, is native to India, the Middle East, and North Africa. These tiny, oval seeds have a pungent and slightly bitter taste, resembling oregano or thyme. When toasted or fried, Ajwain releases a unique aroma and an intense flavor, making it a popular spice in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisines.
From a health perspective, Ajwain is rich in fiber, minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants. It aids digestion, treats abdominal discomfort, and is used in Ayurvedic medicine. Moreover, Ajwain is known to enhance appetite, making it a fantastic addition to your meals.
You can buy Ajwain on our online store at Solvang Spice Ajwain.
Flatbread: An Ever-Popular Staple Food
Flatbreads are a staple in many cultures around the world, thanks to their simplicity and versatility. They can be served as a side dish, used to scoop up other foods, or even act as a base for various toppings. Some popular types of flatbreads include Indian chapati and paratha, Middle Eastern pita, Italian focaccia, and Mexican tortilla.
When it comes to making flatbreads at home, the possibilities are endless. By incorporating Ajwain into your recipes, you can add a unique flavor to your flatbreads that will make them stand out.
Ajwain and Flatbreads: A Match Made in Culinary Heaven
The robust flavor of Ajwain pairs remarkably well with the neutral taste of flatbreads. Whether you're making a simple Ajwain paratha or a more elaborate stuffed flatbread, this spice will add a distinct flavor that will make your dishes unforgettable. Below, we share five flatbread recipes featuring Ajwain that will surely impress your guests.
1. Ajwain Paratha Recipe
Ingredients | Quantity |
---|---|
Wheat flour | 1 cup |
Ajwain (carom seeds) | 1 tsp |
Salt | to taste |
Water | as required |
Ghee (or oil) | 1 tsp |
Instructions:
- In a wide bowl, combine the wheat flour, Ajwain, and salt. Gradually add water to knead into a soft dough.
- Add the ghee and continue kneading until the dough is soft and pliable. Let it rest while you prepare the stuffing.
- Divide the dough into equal portions and roll each portion into a thin disc.
- Heat a pan and cook each paratha until golden brown on both sides, adding a bit of ghee or oil if desired.
- Serve hot with yogurt, pickle, or any curry of your choice.
2. Aloo Stuffed Ajwain Paratha
For the outer layer:
Ingredients | Quantity |
---|---|
Wheat flour | 1 cup |
Ajwain (carom seeds) | 1 tsp |
Salt | to taste |
Water | as required |
Ghee | 1 tsp |
For the stuffing:
Ingredients | Quantity |
---|---|
Boiled and mashed potato | 1/2 cup (approx. 1 large potato) |
Salt | to taste |
Red chili powder | 1/2 tsp |
Cumin powder | 1/2 tsp |
Pav bhaji masala | 1/2 tsp |
Instructions:
- Prepare the dough as mentioned in the Ajwain Paratha recipe.
- For the stuffing, combine the mashed potato, salt, red chili powder, cumin powder, and pav bhaji masala.
- Divide the dough and stuffing into equal portions.
- Flatten a portion of the dough, place a portion of the stuffing in the center, and seal the edges to make a stuffed ball.
- Roll out the stuffed ball into a thin disc.
- Cook the stuffed paratha on a hot pan until golden brown on both sides, adding a bit of ghee or oil if desired.
- Serve hot with yogurt, pickle, or any curry of your choice.
3. Ajwain Mirch Paratha
Ingredients | Quantity |
---|---|
Wheat flour | 1 cup |
Ajwain (carom seeds) | 1 tsp |
Salt | to taste |
Red chili powder | to taste |
Water | as required |
Oil or ghee | for cooking |
Instructions:
- Combine the wheat flour, Ajwain, salt, and red chili powder. Knead into a soft dough.
- Roll each portion into a thin disc and cook on a hot pan with oil or ghee.
- Serve hot with accompaniments of choice.
4. Ajwain Fried Rice
Ingredients | Quantity |
---|---|
Cooked rice | 2 cups |
Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
Cashews | 1/2 cup |
Ajwain (carom seeds) | 2 tsp |
Dried red chili, sliced | 1 large |
Curry leaves | 4 |
Onion, chopped | 1 small |
Salt | to taste |
Lemon wedges | for serving |
Instructions:
- Fry cashews in olive oil, set aside. Sauté Ajwain, chili, curry leaves, and onion.
- Add rice, season with salt, and serve with lemon wedges.
5. Ajwain Ka Paratha
Ingredients | Quantity |
---|---|
Wheat flour | 1 cup |
Ajwain (carom seeds) | 1 tsp |
Salt | to taste |
Water | as required |
Oil or ghee | for cooking |
Instructions:
- Prepare the dough with wheat flour, Ajwain, and salt. Cook parathas on a hot pan with oil or ghee.
- Serve hot with preferred sides.
Conclusion
Whether you're a fan of Indian cuisine or looking to experiment with new flavors, these Ajwain flatbread recipes are a must-try. The unique taste of Ajwain will add a new dimension to your culinary creations, making them a hit among your guests. So, the next time you plan a meal, don't forget to include Ajwain in your shopping list. You can conveniently purchase it from our online store at Solvang Spice Ajwain. Happy cooking!