The Bhakri Artistry
Neena Gupta, known for her love of authentic, home-style cooking, recently illuminated her Instagram followers with a demonstration of how to prepare bhakri,
a staple found in numerous Indian households. She candidly shared that while she is still honing her skills, the resulting flatbread was impressively round and achieved a satisfying crispness. The process begins with preparing a dough using a blend of flours, such as jowar, bajra, ragi, and rice flour, combined with boiling water. This firm dough is then divided into smaller portions. Each portion is carefully flattened by hand on a surface lightly dusted with atta, gradually shaping it into a circular roti-like form with gentle patting. This meticulous hand-kneading and shaping are crucial for achieving the desired texture and appearance of the bhakri, emphasizing the 'art' Neena Gupta referred to in her caption.
Cooking Technique Unveiled
The next stage of Neena Gupta's bhakri preparation involves precise cooking techniques on a heated flat tawa. Once the tawa reaches the right temperature, the flattened dough is placed on it. A key step is to evenly spread room-temperature water over the surface of the bhakri. This application of water aids in the cooking process and contributes to the development of a desirable crust. After one side has cooked sufficiently, the bhakri is flipped to cook the other side. The actress utilizes a spatula to gently press the edges of the bhakri, encouraging it to puff up slightly, a sign of a well-made flatbread. This process is repeated until the bhakri achieves a beautiful golden-brown hue and develops delightfully crispy edges, indicating it is fully cooked and ready to be enjoyed.
Finishing Touches
The final presentation and enhancement of Neena Gupta's bhakri involve a simple yet classic finishing touch. After removing the perfectly cooked bhakri from the stove, it is carefully placed on a clean white cloth. To add a traditional flourish and a burst of flavour, a small hole is made in the center of the warm bhakri. Following this, a generous dollop of desi ghee is introduced into the hole. The ghee is then artfully spread over the entire surface of the bhakri, allowing its rich aroma and creamy texture to permeate the crispy flatbread. This final application of ghee not only enhances the taste but also elevates the rustic charm of this traditional Maharashtrian dish, making it a truly comforting and delectable meal.
