How to Make Authentic Tandoori Roti at Home: A Quick and Easy Guide

Tandoori roti, a traditional Indian flatbread, is a staple in many households. While it is traditionally cooked in a clay oven called a tandoor, you can easily replicate this taste at home using a stovetop or oven. This guide will walk you through the process of making this delicious flatbread from start to finish.

Ingredients

2 cups whole wheat flour (atta) 1/2 teaspoon salt Water as needed 1 tablespoon oil (optional) Ghee or butter for brushing (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour and salt. Gradually add water and knead to form a soft and pliable dough. You can add a tablespoon of oil for extra softness. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.

Divide the Dough

After resting, knead the dough briefly and divide it into equal-sized balls, about the size of a golf ball.

Roll Out the Roti

Dust a rolling surface with flour. Take one dough ball, flatten it slightly, and roll it out into a circle approximately 6-8 inches in diameter. Aim to make it slightly thicker than a regular chapati.

Cooking on a Stovetop

Heat a tawa flat skillet or a cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the rolled roti on the tawa. Cook for about 30 seconds until small bubbles form on the surface. Flip the roti and cook the other side for another 30 seconds. For the traditional tandoori effect, you can place the roti directly on the flame using tongs after cooking both sides on the tawa. This will puff it up and give it a charred flavor.

Cooking in the Oven

Preheat your oven to the highest setting around 500°F or 260°C and place a baking stone or an inverted baking sheet inside. Once hot, place the rolled roti on the stone/sheet and bake for about 2-3 minutes or until it puffs up and gets brown spots. Flip it halfway through for even cooking.

Finish and Serve

Remove the roti from the heat and brush it with ghee or butter if desired. Serve hot with your favorite curry or dish.

Tips

For added flavor, you can mix herbs or spices like chopped cilantro or cumin seeds into the dough. Ensure your cooking surface is hot enough to puff up the roti effectively.

Enjoy your homemade tandoori roti! This traditional flatbread offers a delightful taste of India right in your own kitchen.