- Why did my roti turn out hard?
- You likely cooked it too long on low heat (drying it out) or the dough was too stiff (needs more water). Butter it immediately after cooking and keep covered!
- How do I get it to puff up?
- High heat and even rolling are key. If there's a hole in the dough, steam escapes and it won't puff.
- How long does it keep?
- It's best fresh. Wrap leftovers in foil, though they will be slightly drier the next day.
Soft & Buttery Roti (Authentic Indian Flatbread)
Roti (or Chapati) is the daily bread of India—the perfect scoop for curries and dals. Its genius lies in its simplicity: just flour, water, and a touch of fat. The magic happens when you brush the steaming hot, fresh-off-the-skillet bread with butter, keeping it incredibly soft. This recipe teaches the fundamental technique; once you master it, you'll never go back to store-bought flatbreads.
Ingredients
2 1/2
cups
Whole Wheat Flour (Atta Flour preferred)
2/3 - 3/4
cup
Warm Water (adjust as needed)
1
pinch
Salt
1
tbsp
Vegetable Oil (for the dough)
3
tbsp
Melted Butter or Ghee (for brushing)
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Pastry board (or clean counter)
- Rolling pin
- Cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan (Tawa)
- Pastry brush (for buttering)
Allergen Information
Wheat
Milk
Instructions
1
✓
Mix the flour and salt in a bowl. Add the oil and rub it into the flour with your fingertips.
Tip: The oil coats the flour particles, inhibiting excess gluten formation for a softer texture.
2
✓
Gradually add the warm water while kneading. Keep adding water until the dough comes together into a medium-soft ball.
Tip: Warm water helps hydrate the starch and proteins faster.
3
✓
Knead vigorously for 5-8 minutes, then cover with a damp cloth and let rest for 15-20 minutes.
Tip: Resting is crucial! It allows the gluten to relax and water to distribute evenly.
4
✓
Divide the dough into small balls and roll them out into thin circles.
Tip: Rotate and dust with flour as you roll to prevent sticking and maintain a round shape.
5
✓
Heat a heavy skillet. Cook the first side for about 30 seconds (until small bubbles appear), then flip. Cook the second side a bit longer until brown spots appear.
Tip: If you have a gas stove, you can hold the roti directly over the open flame with tongs for the final seconds to make it puff up instantly (Phulka style).
6
✓
Remove from heat and immediately brush generously with melted butter or ghee.
Tip: The butter seals moisture inside the bread.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups Whole Wheat Flour (Atta Flour preferred)
- 2/3 - 3/4 cup Warm Water (adjust as needed)
- 1 pinch Salt
- 1 tbsp Vegetable Oil (for the dough)
- 3 tbsp Melted Butter or Ghee (for brushing)