Chapathi (Roti) is a soft, everyday Indian flatbread made using whole wheat flour. It is light, healthy, and easy to prepare with just a few basic ingredients. With proper kneading and resting time, chapathis turn soft and puff nicely on the tawa. It pairs well with all curries, dals, and sabzis, making it a versatile meal option. Since it uses whole grains, it is ideal for kids, adults, and even diet-friendly meals.
Ingredients
- Whole wheat flour – 2 cups
- Water – as required (warm)
- Salt – ½ tsp
- Oil – 1 tsp (optional, for soft texture)
- Dry flour – for dusting
Preparation
- In a mixing bowl, add wheat flour and salt.
- Add warm water gradually and start kneading.
- Knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough becomes soft and smooth.
- Add 1 tsp oil and knead again briefly.
- Cover and rest the dough for 15–20 minutes.
- Make medium-sized balls and flatten slightly.
- Dust with dry flour and roll evenly into a thin circle.
- Heat a tawa and place the rolled chapathi on it.
- When bubbles appear, flip and cook the other side.
- Press gently with a cloth or spatula to make it puff.
- Remove from tawa and apply ghee/oil (optional).
Tips
- Use warm water for extra softness.
- Knead the dough well—this is the key for soft chapathi.
- Rest the dough for at least 15 minutes.
- Don’t use too much dry flour while rolling.
- Cook on medium-high heat for puffing.
Variations
- Ghee Chapathi: Add ghee while kneading and after cooking.
- Masala Chapathi: Add turmeric, ajwain, red chilli, or coriander.
- Milk Chapathi: Replace water with warm milk for softer chapathis.
Health Benefits
- Whole wheat is rich in fiber, improving digestion.
- Good source of complex carbohydrates for energy.
- Low in fat and suitable for everyday meals.
- Helps in maintaining stable blood sugar levels.
Interesting Facts About Chapati
- Chapati is also known by many regional names including roti, rooti, rotee, rotli, rotta, safati, shabaati, phulka, chapo, sada roti, poli, and roshi, showing its wide cultural presence.
- It is a staple food in India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Kyrgyzstan, the Arabian Peninsula, East Africa, and the Caribbean, making it one of the most widely consumed flatbreads in the world.
- The word “chapati” comes from the Sanskrit “carpatī,” which means “thin cake.”
- Chapati’s origins can be traced back to the Indus Valley Civilization, where early farmers made simple flatbreads using whole wheat flour and water.
- Because chapati has a long shelf life, is lightweight, and easy to carry, it spread across Southeast and Central Asia, East Africa, and the Caribbean over centuries.
- In modern times, chapati has also become a staple in households across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, reflecting its global popularity.