Soft butter roti
Discover the magic of roti with my humble soft butter roti recipe. Stepping into an Indian kitchen is like embarking on a vibrant, sensory-rich journey. The aroma of spices, the sizzle of fresh ingredients, and the warmth of family traditions come together to create an unforgettable culinary experience. At the heart of this journey is the humble yet quintessential roti—a staple of Indian cuisine that embodies simplicity, versatility, and cultural significance.Roti, also known as chapati, is an unleavened flatbread that has been a part of Indian households for centuries. Made from whole wheat flour (atta), water, and a pinch of salt, roti is a perfect example of how basic ingredients can be transformed into something truly special. The process of making roti is an art passed down through generations, often from mothers to daughters, each adding their unique touch to this timeless tradition.The journey of making roti begins with the dough. Whole wheat flour is mixed with water to create a soft, pliable dough that is kneaded until smooth. This step is crucial, as the consistency of the dough determines the texture of the roti. After resting the dough to allow the gluten to develop, small portions are taken and rolled into thin, round discs. This is where skill and experience shine, as achieving the perfect thickness and roundness is a hallmark of a well-made roti.Once rolled, the roti is cooked on a hot griddle, or tawa, until it puffs up, indicating that it is perfectly cooked. The roti is then transferred directly onto an open flame, where it puffs up beautifully, creating soft, airy layers. The final product is a warm, tender flatbread that is both wholesome and delicious.Roti is more than just a bread; it is a canvas for flavors. It complements a myriad of Indian dishes, from spicy curries and hearty lentils to fresh vegetables and tangy pickles. Whether enjoyed with a dollop of ghee or used to scoop up mouthfuls of vibrant dishes, roti is integral to the Indian dining experience.In the broader context of Indian culture, roti symbolizes nourishment, hospitality, and unity. It is a common sight at family gatherings, festivals, and daily meals, bringing people together over shared plates and stories. The simplicity of roti makes it a comfort food for many, a reminder of home and the love that goes into its preparation.Embarking on the journey of making and enjoying roti is like taking a step into the soul of Indian culinary traditions. It is an invitation to experience the warmth, flavors, and heritage that define Indian cuisine. So next time you step into an Indian kitchen, take a moment to appreciate the roti—a small yet profound piece of India’s rich culinary tapestry.
Equipment
- stand mixer
Ingredients
- 500 g wheat flour plus extra flour for rolling out the rotis
- 4 tbsp melted butter plus some extra butter for brushing the rotis
- 250 ml boiling water
- 5 g salt
Instructions
- Add the flour to the bowl of your stand mixer together with 4 tablespoons of melted butter, boiling water and salt.
- Knead everything until you have a soft and smooth dough.
- Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces.
- Lightly flour your surface and roll each ball into a thin round circle of more or less 20 cm.
- Heat a non-stick frying pan to medium heat.
- Place one roti into the pan and wait until some bubbles appear, then flip the roti over and wait for some more bubbles to appear.
- Once the bubbles appear on the other side of the roti, brush that side with some melted butter and turn the roti over again.
- Then brush that side of the roti with some butter and turn it once more. So that means that you turned the roti 3 times during the cooking process.
- Then you can take the roti out of the pan and keep it warm in a covered container. Put some paper towel below and on top of the rotis.
- The whole cooking process for one roti won't take longer than a minute.
- The roti is the perfect side dish for my Pandi curry. You can check out the recipe on my website.