4 minute read
Jeera Biscuits
What Are the Ingredients in Jeera Biscuits?
Jeera biscuits are a delicious blend of sweet and salty flavors, with a touch of cumin (jeera) that makes them unique. These crispy biscuits are a popular snack, often enjoyed with tea. Let’s take a look at the key ingredients that go into making jeera biscuits.
1. All-Purpose Flour (Maida)
The base of jeera biscuits is all-purpose flour, which gives them a light and crisp texture. Some variations also use whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
2. Butter or Ghee
For a rich and flavorful taste, butter or ghee is used. This ingredient adds to the softness of the biscuits while also enhancing their aroma.
3. Cumin Seeds (Jeera)
The star ingredient! Cumin seeds (jeera) provide the biscuits with their signature taste and a slightly earthy, nutty flavor. They are usually dry-roasted before being added to bring out their full aroma.
4. Sugar
A small amount of sugar is added to balance the flavors. Jeera biscuits are not overly sweet, but a little sugar helps in achieving the perfect taste.
5. Salt
A pinch of salt enhances the flavor and creates a perfect balance between sweet and savory.
6. Baking Powder
To make the biscuits light and airy, a little baking powder is used. It helps in making them crisp and gives them a nice texture.
7. Milk or Water
A small quantity of milk or water is added to bind the dough together and achieve the right consistency.
8. Black Pepper (Optional)
Some recipes include a pinch of black pepper to add a slight spiciness, making the biscuits even more flavorful.
How to Make Jeera Biscuits?
Now that we know the ingredients, let’s go through a simple step-by-step method to prepare jeera biscuits at home.
Roast the cumin seeds – Heat a pan and dry roast the cumin seeds for a minute until aromatic. Let them cool.
Prepare the dough – In a bowl, mix all-purpose flour, salt, sugar, baking powder, and roasted cumin seeds. Add butter or ghee and mix until crumbly.
Add liquid – Gradually add milk or water to form a soft dough. Do not over-knead.
Roll and cut – Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface and cut it into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
Bake – Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the biscuits for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cool and store – Let the biscuits cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy jeera biscuits with a cup of hot tea or coffee.
Serve them with cheese or spreads for a unique twist.
Pair them with yogurt-based dips for a fusion snack.
Health Benefits of Jeera Biscuits
Jeera biscuits are not just tasty; they also come with a few health benefits, thanks to the presence of cumin seeds and other simple ingredients.
Aids Digestion: Cumin seeds are well-known for their digestive properties. They help in reducing bloating and improving gut health.
Rich in Antioxidants: Cumin is packed with antioxidants, which help in fighting free radicals and promoting overall well-being.
Balanced Snack Option: Since jeera biscuits contain a mix of healthy fats, fiber, and proteins, they are a better snack alternative compared to overly processed biscuits.
Customizable for Healthier Variants: Using whole wheat flour or reducing sugar content can make jeera biscuits a healthier snack without compromising on taste.
Variations of Jeera Biscuits
If you want to experiment with different flavors and textures, try these variations:
Whole Wheat Jeera Biscuits – Replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a more nutritious option.
Masala Jeera Biscuits – Add extra spices like ajwain (carom seeds), chili flakes, or garlic powder for a spicier kick.
Cheese Jeera Biscuits – Mix in some grated cheese to add a rich and cheesy flavor to the biscuits.
Gluten-Free Jeera Biscuits – Use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend to make the biscuits suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
Conclusion
Jeera biscuits are simple yet full of flavors, thanks to the perfect combination of flour, butter, cumin seeds, and a few essential ingredients. They are easy to make at home and are a great tea-time snack. If you haven’t tried them yet, now is the time to bake a fresh batch! Whether you like them mildly spiced or extra crispy, these biscuits are a must-try for all snack lovers. Plus, with a few tweaks, you can customize them to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
