Tandoori bread, a staple in Indian cuisine, is a type of flatbread traditionally cooked in a clay oven known as a tandoor. The recipe typically involves mixing flour, water, salt, and sometimes yogurt to form a dough, which is then rolled out and baked in the intense heat of the tandoor. The result is a soft and slightly chewy bread with a deliciously charred exterior.

The history of tandoori bread traces back centuries to the Indian subcontinent, where it became a popular accompaniment to various dishes such as curries, kebabs, and grilled meats. The use of the tandoor oven itself dates back even further, with its origins believed to be in the Middle East and Central Asia. Over time, tandoori bread has evolved to include various flavorings such as dill, sesame seeds, or garlic, adding depth and complexity to its taste.

Today, tandoori bread is enjoyed not only in its country of origin but also worldwide, thanks to the global popularity of Indian cuisine. Its versatility and delicious flavor make it a beloved choice for dipping into sauces, wrapping around grilled meats, or simply enjoying on its own as a satisfying snack.

Ingredients:

- 2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1 teaspoon baking powder

- 3/4 cup plain yogurt

- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)

- Optional: sesame seeds or chopped fresh herbs for garnish

Method:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder.

2. Gradually add the yogurt to the dry ingredients, mixing well to form a dough.

3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.

4. Divide the dough into equal-sized balls and roll each ball into a flat disc, about 1/4 inch thick.

5. Preheat the oven to its highest setting (usually around 500°F or 260°C) or prepare a tandoor oven if available.

6. Place the rolled-out dough discs onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

7. Brush the tops of the dough discs with melted butter and sprinkle with sesame seeds or chopped herbs if desired.

8. Bake the tandoori bread in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until puffed up and lightly golden brown.

9. Serve the warm tandoori bread alongside your favorite curries, kebabs, or grilled meats. Enjoy!

Nutrition Value:

1. All-Purpose Flour (2 cups):

  - Calories: Approximately 460 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 96 grams

  - Protein: Approximately 12 grams

  - Fat: Approximately 1 gram

  - Sodium: Approximately 2 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins & Minerals: Contains small amounts of iron, thiamin, niacin, and riboflavin.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides energy from carbohydrates and some protein, along with small amounts of essential vitamins and minerals.

2. Salt (1 teaspoon):

  - Calories: 0 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

  - Protein: 0 grams

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Sodium: Approximately 2,300 mg (varies by brand)

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins & Minerals: No significant vitamin or mineral content.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Enhances flavor and helps in dough development, but should be consumed in moderation due to high sodium content.

3. Baking Powder (1 teaspoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 2 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 0.9 grams

  - Protein: 0 grams

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Sodium: Approximately 500 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins & Minerals: No significant vitamin or mineral content.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides leavening agents for the bread to rise.

4. Plain Yogurt (3/4 cup):

  - Calories: Approximately 120 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 9 grams

  - Protein: Approximately 10 grams

  - Fat: Approximately 5 grams

  - Sodium: Approximately 110 mg

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 30 mg

  - Vitamins & Minerals: Contains calcium, vitamin B12, riboflavin, and phosphorus.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Adds moisture and tanginess to the dough, along with protein, calcium, and other nutrients.

5. Melted Butter (2 tablespoons):

  - Calories: Approximately 200 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 0 grams

  - Protein: Approximately 0 grams

  - Fat: Approximately 22 grams

  - Sodium: Approximately 0 mg

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 60 mg

  - Vitamins & Minerals: Contains small amounts of vitamin A and vitamin D.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Adds richness and flavor to the bread, along with providing essential fats and fat-soluble vitamins.

6. Optional Sesame Seeds or Chopped Fresh Herbs:

  - Nutritional content varies based on the type and quantity used.

  - Sesame seeds are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and certain minerals like calcium and iron.

  - Fresh herbs may provide small amounts of vitamins and minerals, depending on the type used.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Adds flavor, texture, and visual appeal to the tandoori bread.

Overall, tandoori bread made with these ingredients can be a moderate source of carbohydrates, protein, fats, and various vitamins and minerals, especially if whole wheat flour or other nutrient-rich substitutes are used. However, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes and consume in moderation as part of a balanced diet.