SAEDNEWS: Choragi bread is a traditional Zanjani sweet and a symbol of the region’s hospitality. Read on to discover the recipe for Chai Choragi.
According to Saednews, Chay Churghi, also known as Zanjani Tea Bread, is one of Iran’s beloved traditional sweets. Similar to the famous Qazvin-style Padrazi pastry, this sweet has a unique and pleasant flavor. With its delicate texture, appealing aroma, and distinctive taste, Chay Churghi holds a special place in gatherings and celebrations, especially in cities such as Zanjan and Khalkhal.
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup full-fat yogurt
1 cup animal butter (traditional clarified butter)
2 eggs
½ cup sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon ground cardamom
Sesame seeds, as needed
Black cumin seeds, as needed
For the first step, just like many traditional pastry recipes, it is recommended to place all ingredients at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before starting. This helps the preparation and baking process go smoothly.
In a large bowl, combine yogurt, sugar, one egg, and animal butter. Mix well until you achieve a smooth and uniform mixture. Add baking powder and ground cardamom, then continue mixing until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
This stage creates the foundation for many delicious pastries and desserts. Iranian traditional sweets often rely on simple ingredients combined with careful preparation techniques to achieve their unique flavors.
In the second step, sift the flour two or three times to create a softer and lighter texture. Gradually add the sifted flour to the mixture while gently combining the ingredients.
Use a spatula and mix slowly until a soft and smooth dough forms that does not stick to your hands.
To prevent the dough from becoming sticky, add flour gradually. Avoid adding too much flour at once, as it may make the dough too firm and reduce the delicate texture of the sweet.
Place the prepared dough inside a freezer bag or a covered container. Refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to allow it to rest.
This resting period helps the dough become more stable, making it easier to shape while improving the final texture and quality of the pastry.
After resting, place the dough on a lightly floured surface and roll it out. Cut the dough into circular or oval shapes.
For a more traditional appearance, you can use special Chay Churghi pastry cutters or create traditional patterns on the surface using a knife. These designs help maintain the classic look of Zanjani Tea Bread.
Before baking, brush the surface of the pastries with a mixture of egg yolk and brewed saffron. This gives them a beautiful golden color and enhances their flavor.
Finally, sprinkle sesame seeds or black cumin seeds evenly over the pastries to complete their appearance and aroma.
Tip: Avoid applying too much egg wash, as excessive coating may cause the Chay Churghi to become dry or slightly bitter after baking.
Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and arrange the shaped pastries neatly on it.
Bake for approximately 20–25 minutes until the surface turns a beautiful golden color.
This baking method helps preserve the soft texture and pleasant flavor of the pastry, producing a delicious and professional result. Serve the freshly baked Chay Churghi with a cup of freshly brewed Iranian tea for a traditional experience.
Chay Churghi of Zanjan, also known as traditional tea bread, is a simple-looking sweet with a deep and authentic flavor that appeals to many people. To achieve a taste closer to the traditional version, consider the following tips:
The dough does not require extensive kneading. Excessive kneading may cause the butter to separate from the dough and reduce the quality of the pastry.
The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it is too loose, add a small amount of flour until it reaches the right consistency.
The resting stage is only intended to improve the dough’s texture and consistency; it is not meant to increase its volume.
When rolling out the dough, avoid making it too thin or too thick. During baking, it may rise slightly, and excessive thickness can affect its traditional shape and appearance.
Following these steps will help you prepare a delicious Chay Churghi that reflects the authentic taste of Zanjan and Khalkhal’s traditional baking culture.
