Description
This classic chapati recipe delivers soft, pliable whole wheat flatbreads, perfect for scooping up curries, stews, or enjoying on their own. Simple ingredients and straightforward technique make chapati an essential for any home cook looking to master Indian bread.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Dough
- 2 cups whole wheat flour (atta)
- 3/4 cup warm water (plus more as needed)
- 2 teaspoons oil or ghee (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
For Rolling and Cooking
- Extra whole wheat flour, for dusting
- Ghee or butter, for brushing (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour and salt (if using). Gradually add warm water, mixing with your hand or a spatula, until the dough starts to come together. Drizzle in oil or ghee if using. Knead the dough for about 8โ10 minutes until it becomes soft, smooth, and elastic. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 20 minutes.
- Divide and Shape: After resting, knead the dough briefly. Divide it into 10โ12 equal pieces. Roll each piece between your palms to form smooth balls. Keep the dough balls covered so they don’t dry out.
- Roll the Chapatis: Lightly dust your work surface with whole wheat flour. Take one dough ball, flatten it gently, and roll it out into a thin, even circle about 6โ7 inches in diameter. Dust with more flour as needed to prevent sticking.
- Cook on the Tava or Skillet: Heat a heavy skillet or tava over medium-high heat. Place the rolled chapati on the hot skillet. Cook for 30 seconds or until small bubbles appear, then flip. Cook the other side for 30 seconds, then flip again and press gently with a clean cloth or spatula. The chapati should puff up. Cook until there are light brown spots and it’s fully cooked.
- OptionalโFinish with Ghee: Brush hot chapatis with melted ghee or butter, if desired, for extra softness and flavor. Repeat with remaining dough balls. Serve immediately, or store wrapped in a clean cloth to keep warm and soft.
Notes
- Resting the dough is key to softer chapatis.
- Do not overuse flour for dusting, or chapatis may become dry.
- If chapatis don’t puff, try rolling them more evenly and ensure the pan is sufficiently hot.
- Chapati dough can be prepared up to a day ahead and refrigeratedโbring to room temperature before rolling out.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chapati (without ghee)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 0.2g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Fat: 0.4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 2.7g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg