Name: Roasted Paan (Sri-Lankan Bread) Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: For Roasted Paan:; 2 lb flour; 1 tbsp yeast; ¼ cup butter; 1 tbsp salt; ¼ cup sugar; 4 tbsp water; 2 cups water; For Oil Mixture:; ¼ cup flour; ½ cup butter; 1 tbsp olive oil

Roasted Paan is a traditional Sri Lankan bread known for its rich flavor and hearty texture. This bread made with a unique combination of simple ingredients, is often enjoyed with a curry or coconut sambal paste. An inviting aroma emanates from this freshly baked bread, making it a favorite in many Sri Lankan households and beyond.

Photos of Roasted Paan (Sri-Lankan Bread) Recipe

The ingredients list for this recipe is quite straightforward, with most of them being staple items in most kitchens. However, one ingredient you might need to look for specifically is yeast, which is a leavening agent used in baking. It's commonly found in the baking aisle of any supermarket. Also, coconut sambal paste, which is a traditional Sri Lankan condiment often served with bread, might not be available in every store. You may find it in the international aisle or at an Asian grocery store.

Ingredients for Roasted Paan

Flour: This is the basic ingredient of any bread, giving it structure and texture.

Yeast: This leavening agent helps the bread rise, making it soft and fluffy.

Butter: It gives the bread a rich flavor and also aids in browning.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Sugar: Feeds the yeast and promotes browning.

Water: Activates the yeast and brings the dough together.

Olive Oil: Used in the oil mixture to give the bread a beautiful, shiny finish.

One reader, Jordanna Kasper says:

This roasted paan recipe is a game-changer! The bread turned out soft and fluffy, with a delightful golden crust. The aroma filled my kitchen, and the taste was simply divine. It paired perfectly with my favorite curry. I can't wait to make it again!

Jordanna Kasper

Mastering the Art of Roasted Paan: Key Techniques

How to make oil mixture: Combine flour, butter, and olive oil in a small bowl and mix well until a smooth paste is formed. Set aside for later use.

How to prepare roasted paan dough: Mix yeast and sugar with 4 tablespoons of water and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes until it becomes frothy. Combine the yeast mixture with flour, butter, salt, and water to form a dough. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic.

How to shape the dough: After the dough has doubled in size, divide it into 200-gram balls and let them rest for 15 minutes. Then, knead the balls into squares with a slight dome on the top.

How to apply the oil mixture: Once the dough is shaped, apply the prepared oil mixture on the top of the dough balls evenly.

How to bake the bread: Place the shaped dough balls in a 7-inch baking tray and preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Bake the bread for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown.

How to serve: Serve the roasted paan with a curry or coconut sambal paste for a delicious meal.

How To Make Roasted Paan (Sri-Lankan Bread)

This roasted paan recipe makes a Sri Lankan staple accessible. All you need are six ingredients to recreate this South Asian bread.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 40 minutes

Rest Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Total: 2 hours 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Roasted Paan:

2lbflour
1tbspyeast
¼cupbutter
1tbspsalt
¼cupsugar
4tbspwater,lukewarm, to mix the yeast
2cupswater,lukewarm, for the dough

For Oil Mixture:

¼cupflour
½cupbutter
1tbspolive oil

Instructions

Oil Mixture:

In a small bowl, mix together flour, butter and olive oil. Set aside.

Roasted Paan:

Mix yeast and sugar with 4 tablespoons of water and let it bloom for 10 to 15 minutes.
Mix together flour, butter, salt, water, and the yeast mixture into a dough. Knead well.
Rest the dough for 1 hour in a slightly warm, dry place. Cover with a wet towel.
Once the dough has doubled in size, knead again. Then, separate the dough into 200-gram balls and let them rest for 15 minutes in a flat oven pan.
Knead the 200-gram balls into squares with a slight dome on the top.
Now, apply the oil mixture on the top of the dough balls.
Place all the shaped dough balls in a 7-inch baking tray.
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Once preheated, bake bread for 20 to 25 minutes.
After 25 minutes, take the bread tray out of the oven and separate the bread pieces while hot. Lay them on a flat oven tray.
Place the tray back in the oven until the tops turn golden brown. This will take about 15 minutes.
Serce with a curry or coconut sambal paste.
Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 623.55kcal
Fat: 20.21g
Saturated Fat: 11.36g
Trans Fat: 0.70g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.87g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.31g
Carbohydrates: 96.39g
Fiber: 3.57g
Sugar: 6.57g
Protein: 12.91g
Cholesterol: 45.75mg
Sodium: 499.20mg
Calcium: 25.54mg
Potassium: 145.19mg
Iron: 1.43mg
Vitamin A: 145.56µg
Vitamin C: 0.00mg

Elevate Your Roasted Paan: Expert Technique Tip

When kneading the dough for your roasted paan, it's important to apply just the right amount of pressure. Too much can make the bread tough, while too little can result in a dough that doesn't rise properly. Aim for a smooth, elastic texture. Also, when applying the oil mixture on top of the dough balls, ensure to spread it evenly. This will give your bread a beautiful, golden crust and add a subtle flavor to the final product.

Streamline Your Roasted Paan Recipe: Time-Saving Hacks

Plan ahead: Prepare all your ingredients and equipment before you start cooking to save time and avoid any last-minute hassles.

Multitask: Look for opportunities to multitask, such as chopping vegetables while waiting for water to boil or preheating the oven.

Use convenience products: Consider using pre-cut vegetables, canned beans, or pre-made sauces to cut down on prep time without sacrificing flavor.

Clean as you go: Wash and put away utensils and dishes as you cook to minimize the cleanup time at the end.

Invest in quality tools: Quality knives, kitchen gadgets, and appliances can make food preparation more efficient and enjoyable.

Batch cooking: Prepare large quantities of certain ingredients or dishes and freeze them for later use to save time on busy days.

Follow the recipe: Stick to the recipe to avoid mistakes that could lead to time-consuming fixes or adjustments.

Organize your kitchen: Keep your kitchen well-organized to easily find ingredients and tools, saving time and reducing stress during cooking.

Substitute Ingredients For Roasted Paan (Sri-Lankan Bread) Recipe

flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can add a nutty flavor and extra nutrients to the roasted paan, while still providing the necessary structure for the bread.
yeast - Substitute with sourdough starter: Sourdough starter can be used as a natural leavening agent, adding a tangy flavor and complexity to the bread.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar richness and moisture to the bread, while also adding a hint of coconut flavor.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can enhance the overall flavor of the roasted paan and provide a more complex taste compared to regular table salt.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a natural sweetness and depth of flavor to the bread, as well as contribute to a more moist and tender texture.
water (4 tbsp) - Substitute with milk: Milk can add richness and a softer crumb to the bread, resulting in a more tender and flavorful roasted paan.
water (2 cups) - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can infuse the bread with a subtle tropical flavor and a creamy texture, elevating the overall taste experience.
flour (for oil mixture) - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can be used as a thickening agent for the oil mixture, providing a similar consistency and texture to the final product.
butter (for oil mixture) - Substitute with ghee: Ghee can add a rich, nutty flavor to the oil mixture, enhancing the overall taste of the roasted paan.

Elevate Your Bread Game: Presentation Tips

Elevate the bread with a unique shape: Instead of the traditional round shape, consider shaping the bread into squares with a slight dome on top. This will add a modern and artistic touch to the presentation.
Incorporate a touch of elegance with the oil mixture: Use the oil mixture to create a glossy sheen on the bread, adding a touch of sophistication to the overall appearance.
Arrange the bread on a sleek, minimalist plating: Opt for a clean, white plating to allow the golden-brown hues of the bread to stand out, creating a visually appealing contrast.
Garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers: Add a pop of color and freshness to the dish by delicately placing a few sprigs of fresh herbs or edible flowers on the side of the bread.
Pair with a vibrant curry or coconut sambal paste: Serve the roasted paan alongside a vibrant and flavorful curry or coconut sambal paste, creating a visually striking and appetizing presentation.

Essential Tools for Crafting the Perfect Roasted Paan

Mixing bowl: A large, sturdy bowl used for combining ingredients and mixing batters or doughs.
Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and heating food.
Baking tray: A flat, rectangular metal tray used for baking and roasting in the oven.
Small bowl: A small-sized bowl used for mixing small amounts of ingredients or for serving condiments.
Baking tray: A flat, rectangular metal tray used for baking and roasting in the oven.
Measuring cups and spoons: Used for accurately measuring ingredients in both liquid and dry form.
Pastry brush: A kitchen tool with bristles used for applying oil or egg wash to the surface of the bread before baking.
Flat oven tray: A flat, metal tray used for placing the bread in the oven for baking.
Food processor: An electric kitchen appliance used for mixing, pureeing, and blending ingredients.
Baking tray: A flat, rectangular metal tray used for baking and roasting in the oven.

Preserving Perfection: Storing and Freezing Roasted Paan

Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for roasted paan (Sri-Lankan bread):

Allow the roasted paan to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent moisture from accumulating and making the bread soggy.
To store at room temperature, place the cooled paan in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. The bread will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, freeze the paan. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat frozen paan, remove the desired number of pieces from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the paan on a baking sheet. Bake for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy on the outside.
Alternatively, you can reheat the paan in a toaster oven or on a griddle for a quicker option. Simply toast or griddle the paan until heated through and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
If you prefer a softer texture, wrap the thawed paan in a damp paper towel and microwave for 15-20 seconds, or until warm and soft.

Reviving Leftover Roasted Paan: Reheating Tips

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the leftover roasted paan in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet. Heat the bread in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until it's heated through and the crust is crispy again. This method helps to restore the bread's original texture and flavor.
If you prefer a softer crust, wrap the roasted paan in a slightly damp paper towel before placing it in the aluminum foil. The moisture from the paper towel will help to soften the crust while the bread reheats in the oven.
For a quick reheat, you can also use a toaster oven. Cut the leftover roasted paan into slices and place them in the toaster oven. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the bread is warmed through and the crust is crispy.
If you don't have an oven or toaster oven, you can reheat the roasted paan in a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a small amount of butter or olive oil in the skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced bread and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until it's heated through and the crust is crispy.
For a more flavorful twist, brush the leftover roasted paan with a mixture of melted butter, garlic powder, and dried herbs before reheating it in the oven or toaster oven. This will add an extra layer of flavor to the already delicious bread.

Fascinating Trivia About Roasted Paan

The roasted paan bread is a traditional Sri Lankan bread that is often served with curry or coconut sambal paste. It is a staple in Sri Lankan cuisine and is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. The bread is known for its soft texture and slightly sweet flavor, making it a versatile accompaniment to a variety of dishes. It is also a popular street food in Sri Lanka, often enjoyed as a quick snack or meal on the go.

Budget-Friendly Bliss: Is Homemade Roasted Paan Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this roasted paan recipe is quite high, as the ingredients are commonly found in most households. The use of basic pantry staples and minimal additional expenses make it a budget-friendly option. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$15, making it a reasonable choice for a homemade meal. As for the overall verdict, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for its simplicity, versatility, and economical nature.

Is Roasted Paan a Healthy Choice?

The roasted paan recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy due to several factors:

The recipe uses a significant amount of refined flour, which is low in fiber and nutrients compared to whole grain flour
It contains a high proportion of butter, which is high in saturated fat
The addition of sugar contributes to the overall calorie count without providing much nutritional value

However, the recipe does have some redeeming qualities, such as the use of olive oil, which is a healthier fat compared to butter. The bread also serves as a vehicle for potentially nutritious toppings like curries or sambal paste.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace at least half of the refined flour with whole wheat flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value
Reduce the amount of butter used in both the dough and the oil mixture, or replace some of it with healthier alternatives like yogurt or olive oil
Decrease the amount of sugar in the recipe, or substitute it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
Experiment with adding nutrient-dense ingredients to the dough, such as flaxseed meal, chia seeds, or grated vegetables like carrots or zucchini
Serve the roasted paan with healthy, vegetable-based curries or dips to balance out the meal

Editor's Take: Roasted Paan, a Sri-Lankan Delight

The recipe for roasted paan is a delightful and aromatic creation. The use of yeast and butter in the dough results in a rich and flavorful bread, while the oil mixture adds a beautiful golden crust. The step-by-step instructions are clear and easy to follow, ensuring a successful outcome. The finished bread pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, from savory curries to zesty coconut sambal paste. Overall, this recipe promises a delightful culinary experience, and the aroma of freshly baked paan will surely captivate the senses.

Enhance Your Roasted Paan (Sri-Lankan Bread) Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Curry: Try serving the roasted paan with a flavorful and aromatic curry that complements the bread's texture and taste.

Coconut Sambal Paste: For a burst of tropical flavor, pair the roasted paan with a zesty and spicy coconut sambal paste that will elevate the overall dining experience.

Grilled Chicken: Add a protein-packed element to your meal by serving the roasted paan with succulent and juicy grilled chicken that will satisfy your cravings.

Mango Chutney: Enhance the sweetness of the roasted paan by serving it with a tangy and fruity mango chutney that will tantalize your taste buds.

Tomato and Onion Salad: Balance out the richness of the roasted paan with a refreshing and crunchy tomato and onion salad that will provide a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.

Exploring Bread Varieties: Alternatives to Roasted Paan

Spicy Thai Basil Chicken: This dish is a flavorful and aromatic stir-fry that combines tender chicken with fresh Thai basil, spicy chili peppers, and savory sauce. It's a perfect balance of heat and herbs that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Mango Coconut Popsicles: These refreshing popsicles are made with ripe mangoes, creamy coconut milk, and a touch of honey for sweetness. They're a tropical treat that's perfect for cooling off on a hot day.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: Indulge in this rich and creamy risotto that's packed with earthy mushrooms, fragrant garlic, and savory Parmesan cheese. It's a comforting dish that's perfect for a cozy night in.

Appetizer and Dessert Duos for Roasted Paan

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Top it off with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for a satisfying crunch.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with a classic bruschetta featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Serve it on toasted baguette slices for a burst of Italian flavors.

Desserts:

Tiramisu: Layered with creamy mascarpone and coffee-soaked ladyfingers, this classic Italian dessert is the perfect combination of rich and light flavors. Topped with a dusting of cocoa powder, it's a decadent treat for any occasion.

Pavlova: A delicate meringue base topped with a luscious combination of whipped cream and fresh fruit, this dessert is a beautiful and elegant addition to any table. The crisp exterior of the meringue gives way to a soft, marshmallow-like interior, creating a delightful contrast of textures.

Why trust this Roasted Paan (Sri-Lankan Bread) Recipe:

This recipe for roasted paan is a traditional Sri Lankan bread that has been passed down through generations. The use of yeast ensures a light and airy texture, while the addition of butter and olive oil provides a rich and flavorful taste. The careful process of kneading and resting the dough allows for the development of complex flavors and a perfect rise. The flour mixture brushed on top creates a beautiful golden crust. This recipe has been perfected over time and is a staple in Sri Lankan cuisine, making it a trustworthy and authentic choice for anyone looking to experience the delicious flavors of Sri Lanka.

Share your thoughts on this delicious Roasted Paan (Sri-Lankan Bread) recipe in the World Cuisines forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to share!

FAQ:

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for the roasted paan?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor of the bread may be slightly different.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast. You can add it directly to the flour without blooming it in water.

Can I freeze the roasted paan for later use?

Yes, you can freeze the roasted paan. Once it has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you're ready to use it, allow it to thaw at room temperature or reheat it in the oven.

Can I use ghee instead of butter for the oil mixture?

Yes, you can use ghee instead of butter for the oil mixture. It will impart a delicious nutty flavor to the bread.

Can I make the roasted paan without the oil mixture?

The oil mixture adds flavor and helps create a crispy crust on the bread. While it's possible to make the roasted paan without the oil mixture, it may not have the same texture and taste.