Dim Pitika, Roti and Aloo Pitika

Ingredients

• 2 cup atta (Use a fine-milled whole wheat flour for best results.)
• 1 cup lukewarm water (Adjust quantity as needed; dough should be soft and pliable.)
• 1 tsp ghee (For the dough, plus extra for brushing (optional).)

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the dough

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the atta and 1 tsp of ghee.
   • Gradually add lukewarm water, a little at a time, mixing with your fingers to form a shaggy dough.
   • Knead the dough on a clean surface for 8-10 minutes, using the heel of your palm to push and fold until it is smooth, soft, and pliable, but not sticky.
   • Cover the dough with a damp cloth or a lid and let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes. This step is crucial for relaxing the gluten and ensuring soft rotis.
2. 2

   Divide and roll the rotis

   • After resting, knead the dough for another minute.
   • Divide the dough into 8 equal-sized portions and roll each into a smooth, crack-free ball.
   • Take one dough ball, flatten it, and dip it in dry atta for dusting.
   • On a rolling board, use a rolling pin to roll it into an even circle about 6-7 inches in diameter. Ensure the edges are as thin as the center for proper puffing.
3. 3

   Cook the roti

   • Heat a flat griddle (tawa) over medium-high heat. It's ready when a pinch of flour sprinkled on it sizzles and turns brown in seconds.
   • Place the rolled roti on the hot tawa. Cook for about 20-30 seconds, until you see small bubbles appear on the surface.
   • Using tongs, flip the roti. Cook the second side for about 45-60 seconds, until light brown spots appear.
4. 4

   Puff the roti

   • Using tongs, carefully remove the roti from the tawa and place it directly over a medium-high open flame. It should puff up into a ball almost instantly. Flip it once and remove immediately to avoid burning.
   • Alternatively, if you don't have a gas stove, flip the roti back onto the tawa and gently press the edges with a folded kitchen towel. This traps steam and helps the roti puff up.
   • Once puffed, immediately remove the roti from the heat.
5. 5

   Finish and serve

   • Brush one side with ghee, if desired, for extra flavor and softness.
   • Place the finished roti in a casserole dish or a container lined with a clean kitchen towel to keep them soft and warm.
   • Repeat the process for all remaining dough balls. Serve hot with your favorite dal, curry, or sabzi.

Ingredients

• 500 g Potatoes (About 4 medium-sized, starchy potatoes like Russet work best)
• 1 medium Onion (Finely chopped)
• 3 pcs Green Chilies (Finely chopped, adjust to taste)
• 2 tbsp Mustard Oil (Use raw, pungent mustard oil for authentic flavor)
• 2 tbsp Coriander Leaves (Freshly chopped)
• 1 tsp Salt (Adjust to taste)

Instructions

1. 1

   Boil the Potatoes

   • Wash the potatoes thoroughly under running water.
   • Place them in a deep pot and add enough water to cover them by at least an inch.
   • Bring the water to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes. The potatoes are done when a knife pierces through the center with no resistance.
   • Alternatively, you can pressure cook the potatoes for 3-4 whistles on medium heat.
2. 2

   Peel and Mash

   • Carefully drain the hot water from the pot.
   • Let the potatoes cool just enough so you can handle them, but ensure they are still warm.
   • Peel the skin off the potatoes and place them in a large mixing bowl.
   • Using a potato masher or a fork, mash the potatoes to a slightly coarse texture. Avoid making a completely smooth puree for the best consistency.
3. 3

   Add Aromatics and Seasoning

   • To the warm mashed potatoes, add the finely chopped onion, green chilies, and fresh coriander leaves.
   • Drizzle the raw mustard oil over the mixture and sprinkle with salt.
4. 4

   Combine and Serve

   • Gently mix all the ingredients together with your hands or a spoon until everything is well combined. Do not overmix.
   • Taste and adjust the salt or green chilies if needed.
   • Serve the Aloo Pitika immediately with hot steamed rice and dal for an authentic and comforting Assamese meal.