Lauki Sabzi, Roti and Boondi Raita

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

• 1 cup Plain Yogurt (Use full-fat and well-chilled)
• 0.5 cup Boondi (Plain or salted variety)
• 0.25 cup Water (Chilled, or as needed for consistency)
• 0.5 tsp Roasted Cumin Powder
• 0.25 tsp Kala Namak (Also known as black salt)
• 0.25 tsp Red Chili Powder (Optional, adjust to taste)
• 0.25 tsp Salt (Adjust to taste)
• 0.25 tsp Sugar (Optional, to balance the tang)
• 1 tbsp Coriander Leaves (Finely chopped, for garnish)

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the Boondi

   • Place the boondi in a small bowl and cover them with warm water. Let them soak for 1-2 minutes until they are just soft.
   • Carefully drain the water and gently squeeze the boondi between your palms to remove excess water. Set aside.
2. 2

   Prepare the Spiced Yogurt

   • In a medium bowl, add the chilled plain yogurt and whisk vigorously until it is completely smooth and creamy.
   • Gradually whisk in the chilled water until you reach your desired consistency.
   • Add the roasted cumin powder, kala namak, red chili powder, salt, and optional sugar. Mix until all the spices are well incorporated.
3. 3

   Combine and Serve

   • Just before serving, add the soaked and squeezed boondi to the spiced yogurt.
   • Gently fold the boondi into the yogurt mixture.
   • Garnish with finely chopped coriander leaves. Serve immediately for the best texture.