Indian Flatbread Recipe (Chapati, Roti, Paratha)

Ingredients

• 4 cups Wheat flour (or chapati flour)
• 2 tbsp Oil (or butter for flavor)
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1 cup Warm water (you may need a bit more)

Instructions

1. 1

   --- Dough ---

2. 2

   In a large bowl, food processor, or bowl of a stand mixer, add flour, salt, and oil. Stir to combine or pulse for a few seconds. Gradually add water while mixing until you have a soft mixture.

3. 3

   Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic but still soft.

4. 4

   Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and rest for 10 to 15 minutes.

5. 5

   Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each portion into a ball.

6. 6

   --- Chapati ---

7. 7

   Using a rolling pin, roll each ball on a work surface lightly dusted with flour. The disc can be about 8 inches in diameter (approximately). Keep covered under a clean kitchen cloth or cheesecloth to prevent them from drying out.

8. 8

   --- Indian roti / Tandoori roti ---

9. 9

   Using a rolling pin, roll each ball on a work surface lightly dusted with flour. The disc can be about 6 inches in diameter (approximately). Keep covered under a clean kitchen cloth or cheesecloth to prevent them from drying out.

10. 10

    --- Paratha ---

11. 11

    Using a rolling pin, roll each ball on a work surface lightly dusted with flour. The disc can be about 8 inches in diameter. Brush the dough with oil and fold as shown in the video. Then, roll again into a square or roll shape to about 6 inches in diameter.

12. 12

    --- Lacha Paratha ---

13. 13

    Using a rolling pin, roll each ball on a work surface lightly dusted with flour. The disc can be about 8 inches in diameter. Brush the dough with oil and fold like an accordion. Then, roll it into a coil and make a flat disc, as shown in the video. Roll again about 6 inches in diameter.

14. 14

    --- Cook ---

15. 15

    Heat a large skillet, griddle, or cast-iron pan on the stove over medium-high heat.

16. 16

    Place the chapati, roti, paratha, or lacha paratha on the hot skillet.

17. 17

    Cook for 30 seconds until you see a few bubbles. Then, flip to the other side. Cook another 30 to 45 seconds on medium heat.

18. 18

    Lightly brush with oil or butter on one side. Gently press with a flat spatula. Turn over and brush the other side. Then, gently press with a flat spatula until light golden-brown spots appear.

19. 19

    Remove the flatbreads from the pan and stack them. Store it wrapped in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to keep them soft.