- Why does dough crack when rolling?
- Too little moisture or too much millet flour vs wheat. Knead with wet hands.
- Why is it hard after cooking?
- Cooked too long on low heat and dried out. Thepla must be cooked quickly on medium-high heat.
Spiced Millet Flatbreads (Bajra Thepla)
Thepla is a famous flatbread from Gujarat, India, essential for travelers as it stays soft for days. 'Bajra' refers to millet flour, which adds a nutty flavor as a gluten-free grain. Since millet lacks gluten, it's hard to roll out alone, so it's mixed with wheat flour. Spices and yogurt make this simple bread a true flavor bomb.
Ingredients
1 1/2
cups
Bajra Flour (Pearl Millet Flour)
3/4
cup
Whole Wheat Flour (or All-Purpose)
3
tbsp
Yogurt
1
tbsp
Oil (for dough)
1/4
cup
Water (approx., as needed)
1/2
tsp
Salt
1
tsp
Black Sesame Seeds
1
pinch
Grated Ginger
1
tbsp
Fresh Cilantro (chopped)
2
tbsp
Oil (for frying)
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Large bowl for kneading
- Rolling pin
- Tava (Indian griddle) or skillet
- Brush or spoon for oiling
Allergen Information
Wheat
Milk
Sesame
Instructions
1
✓
In a bowl, mix both flours, salt, sesame seeds, ginger, and cilantro.
Tip: Mixing dry ingredients ensures even spice distribution.
2
✓
Add yogurt and 1 tbsp oil. Rub into the flour mixture.
Tip: Yogurt acidity softens the gluten, keeping the bread fresh longer.
3
✓
Gradually adding water, knead into a medium-stiff, smooth dough.
Tip: Not too soft, or it will be sticky to roll.
4
✓
Let dough rest covered for 20 minutes.
Tip: Resting allows flour particles to absorb moisture, making rolling easier.
5
✓
Form ping-pong sized balls and roll into thin circles (approx 6 inches) on a floured surface.
Tip: Use wheat flour for dusting, not millet flour.
6
✓
Heat the skillet. Place dough on it. When small bubbles appear, flip.
Tip: Brush the cooked side with a little oil now.
7
✓
Cook other side until brown spots appear, brush with oil, and remove. Keep warm.
Tip: Press down edges with a spatula while cooking to ensure even baking.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups Bajra Flour (Pearl Millet Flour)
- 3/4 cup Whole Wheat Flour (or All-Purpose)
- 3 tbsp Yogurt
- 1 tbsp Oil (for dough)
- 1/4 cup Water (approx., as needed)
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Black Sesame Seeds
- 1 pinch Grated Ginger
- 1 tbsp Fresh Cilantro (chopped)
- 2 tbsp Oil (for frying)