How to make tandoori roti at home...

 

How to Make Tandoori Roti at Home: A Detailed Guide

Tandoori roti, a traditional Indian flatbread, is known for its slightly crispy exterior and soft, chewy interior. It is typically cooked in a tandoor (clay oven), but you can easily make it at home using a tawa (griddle) or oven. Here's a step-by-step guide to making restaurant-style tandoori roti at home.

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Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (optional for extra softness)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons yogurt (curd)
• 1 tablespoon oil or ghee
• Water (as needed to knead the dough)
• Butter or ghee (for brushing the rotis)

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Optional Ingredients for Flavor:

• Chopped coriander leaves
• Nigella seeds (kalonji) or sesame seeds
• Garlic (for garlic tandoori roti)

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Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Resting Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

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Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and salt.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Add yogurt and oil to the dry ingredients. Mix well.
3. Knead the Dough: Gradually add water and knead to form a soft and pliable dough. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Rest the Dough: Cover the dough with a damp cloth or cling film and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making the rotis softer.

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Step 2: Shaping the Rotis

1. Divide the Dough: After resting, divide the dough into equal-sized balls (about the size of a lemon).
2. Roll the Rotis: Dust a ball with flour and roll it out into an oval or round shape (about ¼ inch thick). You can keep it plain or sprinkle nigella seeds, chopped coriander, or garlic for extra flavor.
3. Pat and Stretch: Pat the rolled dough gently with your hands to give it a slightly uneven texture, which is typical of traditional tandoori roti.

Step 3: Cooking the Rotis

Method 1: On a Tawa (Stovetop)

1. Heat the Tawa: Place a cast-iron tawa (griddle) on medium-high heat. Ensure it is hot before placing the roti.
2. Apply Water: Brush one side of the rolled roti with water. This helps it stick to the tawa.
3. Cook on Tawa: Place the watered side down on the hot tawa. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until bubbles form on the surface.
4. Invert and Roast: Flip the tawa upside down over an open flame to roast the roti directly on the flame. This mimics the effect of a tandoor, giving it a smoky flavor and charred spots.
5. Remove and Brush: Remove the roti from the tawa and brush it with butter or ghee.

Method 2: In the Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to the highest temperature (about 250°C or 480°F). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while preheating.
2. Bake the Rotis: Place the rolled rotis on a baking sheet or the hot pizza stone. Bake for about 3-4 minutes until they puff up and get golden spots.
3. Broil for Char: To get the traditional char, turn on the broiler for a minute. Watch closely to prevent burning.
4. Brush with Butter: Remove from the oven and immediately brush with butter or ghee.

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Serving Suggestions:

Tandoori roti pairs perfectly with:

• Dal Makhani
• Paneer Butter Masala
• Chicken Curry
• Chole (Chickpea Curry)
• Raita or Pickles

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Tips for Perfect Tandoori Roti:

• Resting the dough is crucial for soft rotis.
• Do not over-roll the dough; keep it slightly thick for a soft interior.
• Use yogurt for a slight tang and softness.
• For garlic roti, press finely chopped garlic on the rolled dough before cooking.

Conclusion:

Making tandoori roti at home is simple and rewarding. With this detailed guide, you can enjoy soft, smoky, and flavorful rotis without needing a tandoor. Whether on a tawa or in the oven, the result is just as delicious as in a restaurant. Serve hot with your favorite curry, and enjoy an authentic Indian dining experience at home!