Roomali Roti
Experience the magic of ultra-thin, soft, and foldable flatbreads, reminiscent of a handkerchief. This Mughlai specialty is perfect for scooping up rich curries and kebabs, and surprisingly fun to make at home.
For 4 servings
7 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Dough
- b.In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1.5 cups of all-purpose flour, 0.5 cup of atta, and salt.
- c.Add the vegetable oil and rub it into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.
- d.Gradually pour in the warm milk and warm water, mixing continuously to form a very soft, pliable, and slightly sticky dough. You may not need all the water.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Knead and Rest the Dough
- b.Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled surface and knead for 10-12 minutes until it becomes extremely smooth, soft, and elastic. It should spring back when gently pressed.
- c.Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rest for at least 60 to 90 minutes. This step is crucial for relaxing the gluten, which makes stretching possible.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Prepare the Cooking Surface
- b.Invert a large kadai (Indian wok) or a convex tawa over your stove burner.
- c.Heat the inverted kadai on a medium-high flame for 5-7 minutes until it's very hot. To test if it's ready, sprinkle a few drops of water on the surface; they should sizzle and evaporate almost instantly.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Divide and Shape the Dough
- b.After resting, gently knead the dough for another minute.
- c.Divide the dough into 8 equal-sized balls. Keep the dough balls covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Stretch the Roti
- b.Take one dough ball and dust it generously with all-purpose flour. Roll it out with a rolling pin into a thin circle, about 6-7 inches in diameter.
- c.Gently lift the rolled dough and drape it over the knuckles of both hands. Carefully rotate the dough, allowing gravity to stretch it further until it becomes paper-thin and translucent. Be gentle to avoid tearing.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Cook the Roti
- b.Quickly and carefully, drape the stretched roti over the hot inverted kadai.
- c.Cook for about 30-45 seconds, or until you see small bubbles forming on the surface.
- d.Using a pair of tongs, flip the roti and cook the other side for another 20-30 seconds. The roti should be cooked through but remain soft and pale, without any dark brown spots.
- 7
Step 7
- a.Fold and Serve
- b.Remove the roti from the kadai and place it on a clean cloth or plate.
- c.Immediately fold it in half, and then in half again to resemble a handkerchief.
- d.Brush with a little ghee if desired. Place the folded roti in a casserole dish or wrap it in a kitchen towel to keep it warm and soft while you cook the rest.
- e.Serve hot with rich curries or kebabs.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1The dough must be very soft and pliable, softer than regular chapati dough, to stretch properly without tearing.
- 2Do not skip the resting period. It is essential for developing gluten, which gives the dough its characteristic elasticity.
- 3If you are a beginner, practice stretching the dough over the back of a large, clean plate or bowl to get the technique right.
- 4Ensure the inverted kadai or tawa is sufficiently hot before placing the roti on it. A hot surface cooks the roti quickly, keeping it soft.
- 5Work quickly when stretching and cooking, as the paper-thin dough can dry out fast if left exposed.
Adapt it for your goals.
Herb Infused
Add 1 tablespoon of finely chopped mint (pudina) or cilantro (dhania) to the dough for a fresh, herby flavor.
All Maida VersionAll Maida Version
For an even softer and more stretchable roti, traditionally found in restaurants, you can use 2 cups of all-purpose flour (maida) and omit the whole wheat flour (atta).
Spiced DoughSpiced Dough
Add 1/4 teaspoon of ajwain (carom seeds) or crushed black pepper to the dough for a subtle spicy kick.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Source of Energy
The carbohydrates from the all-purpose and whole wheat flours provide a quick and effective source of energy to fuel your body.
Contains Some Fiber
The inclusion of whole wheat flour (atta) contributes a small amount of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut.
Complements a Balanced Meal
Roomali Roti is an excellent vehicle for scooping up protein-rich dals, kebabs, and vegetable curries, helping you create a more balanced and satisfying meal.
Frequently asked questions
'Roomal' means handkerchief in Hindi and Urdu. The roti is named so because it is rolled and stretched until it is as thin and foldable as a handkerchief.