Rotli
A classic Gujarati flatbread, Rotli (or Phulka) is incredibly soft, thin, and puffs up beautifully. Made with just whole wheat flour, water, and a touch of salt, it's the perfect everyday bread to accompany any sabzi, dal, or curry.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Dough
- b.In a large mixing bowl (parat), combine 2 cups of atta and 1/2 tsp of salt.
- c.Add 1 tbsp of oil and mix it into the flour with your fingertips.
- d.Gradually add lukewarm water, a little at a time, and begin to gather the flour to form a dough.
- e.Knead for 8-10 minutes, pressing and stretching with the heel of your hand, until you have a soft, smooth, and pliable dough. It should be softer than puri dough but not sticky.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Rest the Dough
- b.Cover the dough with a damp kitchen towel or a lid.
- c.Let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the gluten to relax, resulting in softer rotlis.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Divide and Roll
- b.After resting, knead the dough again for one minute to make it smooth.
- c.Divide the dough into 8 equal-sized portions and roll them into smooth balls.
- d.Take one ball, flatten it slightly, and dip it in the dry atta for dusting.
- e.On a clean, flat surface (patlo/rolling board), roll the ball into a thin, even circle of about 6-7 inches in diameter. Use minimal flour for dusting to avoid making the rotli dry.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Cook the Rotli on the Tawa
- b.Heat a tawa (griddle) over medium-high heat. It should be hot enough that a drop of water sizzles and evaporates instantly.
- 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 other side for about 30-40 seconds, until light brown spots appear.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Puff the Rotli on Direct Flame
- b.Using tongs, carefully lift the rotli off the tawa and place it directly on a high gas flame.
- c.The rotli will puff up like a balloon within seconds.
- d.Immediately flip it to cook the other side on the flame for just 2-3 seconds.
- e.Remove from the flame.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Finish and Serve
- b.Place the hot, puffed rotli in a casserole or on a plate and immediately brush the top with melted ghee.
- c.Repeat the rolling and cooking process for the remaining dough balls.
- d.Serve hot with your favorite dal, sabzi, or curry.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use lukewarm water to knead the dough; it helps in making the rotlis exceptionally soft.
- 2Kneading is key. Spend at least 8-10 minutes to develop gluten, which makes the rotli soft and pliable.
- 3Resting the dough is non-negotiable. It relaxes the gluten, making rolling easier and the final rotli softer.
- 4Ensure your tawa is properly heated before placing the rotli. A cold tawa will result in hard, leathery rotlis.
- 5Roll the rotli evenly. Uneven thickness can prevent it from puffing up properly.
- 6If you have an electric stove, you can puff the rotli on the tawa itself. After the second flip, use a clean, folded kitchen towel to gently press down on the edges of the rotli, which will help it puff up.
Adapt it for your goals.
Flavor Addition
For a savory twist, add 1/2 teaspoon of ajwain (carom seeds) and a pinch of turmeric powder to the flour before kneading.
Enriched DoughEnriched Dough
Replace half of the water with milk to make the rotlis even softer and richer. This is a great option for kids.
Vegetable InfusionVegetable Infusion
Add 1/4 cup of finely chopped methi (fenugreek leaves) or palak (spinach) puree to the dough for added nutrition and flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Sustained Energy Release
Made from whole wheat, rotli is a complex carbohydrate that provides a steady release of energy, keeping you full and energized for longer periods.
Rich in Dietary Fiber
Whole wheat flour is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes gut health, and helps prevent constipation.
Aids in Weight Management
The high fiber content promotes a feeling of fullness (satiety), which can help in controlling overall calorie intake and support weight management goals.
Good Source of B Vitamins
Whole wheat is a natural source of essential B vitamins like niacin, thiamine, and folate, which are crucial for energy metabolism and overall health.
Frequently asked questions
This can happen for a few reasons: the dough is too stiff, the rotli is not rolled evenly, the tawa isn't hot enough, or there might be a small hole in the rotli. Ensure the dough is soft and pliable and the tawa is preheated well before you begin.