Ghee Rotli
Soft, thin, and delicate whole wheat flatbreads, puffed to perfection and generously brushed with ghee. This everyday Gujarati staple, also known as Phulka, is the perfect companion for any dal, shaak, or curry.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Dough
- b.In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of atta and 0.5 tsp of salt.
- c.Gradually add lukewarm water, a little at a time, mixing with your fingers to bring the flour together.
- d.Knead into a soft, pliable dough. It should be soft to the touch but not sticky. Knead on a clean, flat surface for 7-8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- e.Add 1 tsp of oil and knead for another minute until the oil is fully incorporated. This makes the dough supple.
- f.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 soft rotlis.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Divide and Roll the Rotlis
- b.After resting, knead the dough again for 30 seconds.
- c.Divide the dough into 8 equal-sized portions and roll them into smooth balls between your palms.
- d.Take one dough ball, flatten it slightly, and dip it in the dry atta for dusting.
- e.On a rolling board (chakla), use a rolling pin (belan) to roll it into a thin, even circle about 6 inches in diameter. Apply gentle, even pressure and dust with more flour if it starts to stick.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Cook the Rotli
- b.Heat a tawa (flat griddle) over medium-high heat. To check if it's ready, sprinkle a few drops of water; they should sizzle and evaporate immediately.
- c.Carefully place the rolled rotli on the hot tawa. Cook for about 15-20 seconds, or until you see small bubbles forming on the surface.
- d.Using tongs, flip the rotli. Cook the second side for about 30-40 seconds, until light brown spots appear.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Puff and Finish
- b.Using tongs, carefully lift the rotli from the tawa and place it directly on a medium-high gas flame. It should puff up like a balloon within seconds.
- c.Quickly flip it to cook the other side on the flame for just 2-3 seconds.
- d.Remove the puffed rotli and place it in a casserole or a container lined with a clean kitchen towel.
- e.Immediately brush the top generously with melted ghee.
- f.Repeat the rolling, cooking, and puffing process for the remaining dough balls. Stack them in the casserole to keep them warm and soft.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1The key to a soft rotli is a soft, well-kneaded dough. The final texture should be like earlobe softness.
- 2Resting the dough is non-negotiable. It allows the gluten to relax, making the rotlis easy to roll and ensuring they are soft.
- 3Roll the rotli evenly from the center outwards. If it's thicker in some spots, it won't puff up properly.
- 4Maintain a consistent medium-high heat. A tawa that is too hot will burn the rotli, and one that is not hot enough will make it hard and leathery.
- 5If you don't have a gas stove, you can puff the rotli on the tawa itself. After the second flip, use a folded, clean kitchen towel to gently press down on the edges of the rotli, which will help it puff up.
- 6Serve immediately for the best texture, or store in an insulated container (casserole) to keep them soft for a few hours.
Adapt it for your goals.
Palak Rotli (Spinach)
Add 1/4 cup of spinach puree (palak) to the dough while kneading for a nutritious and colorful variation. You may need to reduce the amount of water.
Masala RotliMasala Rotli
Add 1/4 tsp of turmeric powder, 1/2 tsp of red chili powder, and 1/4 tsp of ajwain (carom seeds) to the flour for a mildly spiced version.
Vegan RotliVegan Rotli
This recipe is easily made vegan by substituting the ghee with a neutral-flavored oil or a plant-based butter for brushing.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Sustained Energy Release
Made from whole wheat flour, rotli is a complex carbohydrate that provides a steady release of energy, keeping you feeling full and active for longer periods.
Aids Digestion
The high dietary fiber content in whole wheat flour promotes healthy bowel movements, prevents constipation, and supports overall gut health.
Source of Healthy Fats
Ghee is a source of healthy saturated fats and fat-soluble vitamins like A, E, and D. When used in moderation, it supports brain health and lubricates joints.
Frequently asked questions
There are a few common reasons: the dough was too stiff, the rotli was rolled unevenly (thicker in some spots), the tawa wasn't hot enough, or there was a small tear in the rotli which let the steam escape. Ensure your dough is soft and pliable and you roll it evenly.