Description
This traditional Indian roti recipe uses simple ingredients like whole wheat flour and water to create soft, thin flatbreads perfect for wraps or as a side dish. The dough is kneaded to perfection, rested, and cooked on a hot skillet to achieve golden, puffed rotis that are vegan, wholesome, and quick to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough Ingredients
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- ¾ cup warm water (adjust as needed)
- 1 tablespoon oil (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt (optional)
For Rolling
- Extra flour to dust
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour and salt if using. Gradually add warm water while mixing with your hand or a spoon until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, ensuring good gluten development for a tender roti.
- Rest the Dough: Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 20–30 minutes; this step helps relax the gluten, making rolling easier.
- Divide and Shape: Divide the rested dough into 8 equal portions and roll each into a smooth ball.
- Roll Out Rotis: Lightly flour a clean surface, then roll each ball into a thin round disc about 6–8 inches in diameter, ensuring even thickness.
- Heat the Skillet: Preheat a dry skillet or tawa over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
- Cook the Rotis: Place one rolled roti on the hot skillet. Cook for about 30 seconds until bubbles form, then flip and cook the other side for 30 seconds to 1 minute until golden spots appear.
- Puff the Roti: Flip once more and use a spatula to gently press on the roti to encourage it to puff up, indicating fully cooked layers.
- Keep Warm: Remove the cooked roti from the skillet and keep it warm wrapped in a clean kitchen towel. Repeat the process with remaining dough balls.
Notes
- Adding a tablespoon of oil or ghee to the dough can make rotis softer.
- For wraps, roll the roti slightly thicker to hold fillings better.
- Rotis are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored wrapped in foil and reheated gently before serving.
