Lucknowi Sheermal is one of the most recognisable breads from the Awadhi kitchen. Known for its delicate sweetness and saffron fragrance, this golden flatbread often appears on festive tables during Eid celebrations. The dough combines milk, ghee, and a touch of sugar, which creates a soft crumb and mild richness once baked. During Eid gatherings, sheermal is served warm alongside kebabs, korma, or even simply brushed with butter and enjoyed as it is. Its saffron glaze gives the bread its signature golden tint and faint floral aroma.
Place yeast in a small bowl with a pinch of sugar and salt. Add a few tablespoons of lukewarm water and stir gently until the mixture dissolves. Leave it undisturbed for a few minutes so the yeast begins to bubble slightly. This step ensures the dough rises properly and gives the bread its soft interior.
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Step 2: Prepare the dough base
Sift the refined flour into a wide bowl. Add the activated yeast mixture and crack in the egg. Pour in a little ghee and start mixing the dough with your hands. Gradually add milk while kneading until the mixture comes together into a soft and slightly sticky dough.
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Step 3: First resting period
Cover the dough with a damp cloth and place it in a warm spot. The short resting time helps the yeast begin its work while the flour absorbs moisture from the milk and ghee. When uncovered, the dough should feel softer and more elastic than before.
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Step 4: Enrich the dough
Melt the remaining ghee and pour it over the rested dough. Knead again until the fat is fully incorporated and the surface becomes smooth. This additional kneading develops the structure while also distributing richness evenly through the dough.
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Step 5: Shape portions
Divide the dough into equal portions and roll them into smooth balls. Keep them covered so they do not dry out. On a lightly floured surface, flatten each portion and roll it into round discs roughly six inches wide, keeping the thickness even.
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Step 6: Bake sheermal
Brush each rolled disc with saffron milk and lightly prick the surface using a fork. Arrange them on a butter-greased baking tray and place inside a preheated oven at 270°C. Bake until the bread develops a light golden colour and a soft yet cooked texture.
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Step 7: Butter glaze finish
Remove the hot sheermal from the oven and immediately brush with melted butter. This final glaze adds shine and aroma while keeping the bread tender. Serve warm so the saffron fragrance remains noticeable.