More Than Naan and Roti: Delving into India’s Rich Bread Varieties

Shalimar Cuisine of India
2 min readApr 4, 2024

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The Indian epic ‘Mahabharata’ extends beyond the narrative of a solitary conflict, much like the cuisine of India transcends well-known dishes such as naan and roti. While these staples may be familiar favorites at your neighborhood Indian eatery, they merely scratch the surface of what the subcontinent has to offer.

With its vast array of regional cultures and traditions, India presents an extensive selection of breads that differ in texture, flavor, and methods of preparation. From the airy Bhatura of the North to the delicate Roomali Roti, each type of bread narrates the tale of its origins and the people behind it.

Embarking on this voyage of culinary exploration, you’ll encounter more than just new varieties of bread; you’ll delve into the deep, rich mosaic of Indian cultures and traditions that gave birth to them. You’re on the verge of discovering a realm where every bread, be it a loaf, roll, or flatbread, embodies a fragment of India’s gastronomic legacy. Get ready to be captivated and tantalized, as each discovery leaves you eager for the next.

Discovering India’s Hidden Bread Gems

Venture into the realm of lesser-known Indian breads, where the distinct culinary traditions of each region present a vast array of flavors and textures for your taste buds to explore.

Have you encountered Maharashtra’s Bhakri or Karnataka’s Thalipeeth? These breads showcase the diversity and delectable nature of Indian cuisine. Bhakri, a hearty flatbread, comes traditionally crafted from millet, sorghum, or wheat, serving as a staple in many Maharashtrian diets, often accompanied by robust curries.

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Venture further south to experience Thalipeeth, a savory multi-grain pancake known for its nutritious benefits and rich taste. Thus, it’s time to broaden your culinary horizons. Embrace the expansive, delectable world of Indian breads. Give them a try and let your palate journey across India.

Exploring Regional Bread Varieties and Their Unique Crafting Methods

As you delve into India’s gastronomic scene, you’ll uncover the regional bread specialties and the distinctive methods of preparation that endow them with their unique tastes and textures.

In the northern parts of India, the beloved Naan emerges fluffy from the tandoor, infused with a hint of smokiness. Gujarat offers Thepla, a flatbread laced with fenugreek leaves for an aromatic touch. Meanwhile, in the South, Appam presents itself as a soft, bowl-shaped delicacy made from a fermented rice batter.

Each region employs its local ingredients and age-old culinary techniques to produce these breads, reflecting the vast diversity and rich cultural tapestry that define the Indian subcontinent.

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Shalimar Cuisine of India

Our kitchen has the finest chefs who use only charcoal in the clay to create the authentic taste of tandoori dishes.