How to Make Two Easy and Delicious Shirmal Bread Recipes

According to Saednews, Shirmal bread is one of Iran's beloved traditional baked goods. Similar to fatir bread, it sits somewhere between bread and pastry, with each region of the country preparing it in its own unique style. Some people prefer a lightly sweet version served with cheese and walnuts, while others enjoy a sweeter loaf flavored with aromatic cardamom and cinnamon.

This guide explains how to make two popular bakery-style versions of Shirmal: a classic sweet Shirmal and a delicious filled Shirmal. Both are excellent choices for breakfast or as a satisfying snack.

Homemade Sweet Shirmal Bread Recipe

Ingredients

• 400 g bread flour

• ½ cup milk (lukewarm)

• ½ cup lukewarm water

• 120 g sugar

• 1½ tablespoons instant yeast

• 1 egg

• ¾ cup vegetable oil

• ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven

Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).

Fill a small oven-safe bowl halfway with water and place it inside the oven to create steam while baking.

2. Activate the Yeast

Mix together:

• Instant yeast

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• Lukewarm water

Cover the bowl and let it sit for 3–5 minutes, or until the mixture becomes foamy.

3. Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl combine:

• Egg

• Remaining sugar

• Lukewarm milk

• Salt

Add half of the flour along with the activated yeast and mix until smooth.

Gradually stir in the vegetable oil, then slowly add the remaining flour until a soft, cohesive dough forms.

4. Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes.

If the dough feels too firm while kneading, add a small amount of lukewarm milk to soften it.

5. First Rise

Grease a large bowl with oil.

Place the dough inside, cover it with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

6. Shape the Dough

Punch down the risen dough to release trapped air.

Divide it into 100 g portions.

Shape each piece however you like:

• Flatten slightly with a rolling pin

• Roll into ropes and braid

• Form into round rolls

Arrange them on a baking tray.

7. Egg Wash

Mix together:

• 1 egg yolk

• 2 tablespoons milk

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Brush this mixture over each dough piece and sprinkle sesame seeds on top.

8. Bake

Bake for approximately 20 minutes.

If the tops are not golden enough, switch on the broiler (grill) for a few minutes until nicely browned.

Filled Shirmal Bread Recipe

Prepare the dough using the same method as above.

Filling Ideas

Use one or more of the following:

• Chopped walnuts

• Ground cinnamon

• Ground cardamom

• Chocolate pieces

Additional Ingredients

• 1 cup flour

• ½ cup yogurt

• ½ cup milk

• ¼ cup vegetable oil

• 1 tablespoon yeast

• 5–6 tablespoons sugar

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 4 tablespoons brewed saffron

• Ground cinnamon (to taste)

• Ground cardamom (to taste)

• Chocolate (as desired)

• 900 g white wheat flour

Instructions

Mix together:

• Sugar

• Yogurt

• Salt

• Egg yolk

• Milk

• Instant yeast

• Vegetable oil

Whisk until creamy.

Gradually add the sifted flour and knead until you have a soft, elastic dough.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and allow it to rise for 2–3 hours, until doubled in size.

Divide the dough into smaller balls.

Roll each one to about ½ cm (¼ inch) thick.

Spread your preferred filling—walnuts, cinnamon, cardamom, or chocolate—over the dough.

Cover with another layer of dough, seal the edges, and shape as desired.

Egg Wash

Mix together:

• 1 egg yolk

• Brewed saffron

• 2 tablespoons milk

• A pinch of salt

Brush over the dough and sprinkle sesame seeds on top.

Bake in a preheated 190°C (374°F) oven.

After placing the tray inside, reduce the temperature to 80–100°C and bake for about 30 minutes.

Finish by turning on the upper broiler until the bread develops a rich golden color.

Check doneness with a toothpick.

Serve warm with honey or jam.

How to Make Shirmal Without an Oven

Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes.

Place the shaped dough into the hot skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes, until puffed and lightly browned underneath.

Flip and cook the other side for another 2–3 minutes until fully cooked.

Storage Tips

• Store freshly baked Shirmal in an airtight container or sealed plastic bag for up to 3 days at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

• For longer storage, freeze the bread for up to 6 months. Thaw at room temperature and warm before serving for the best texture.