The Ultimate Guide to Making Tandoori Roti at Home

Introduction

Tandoori roti is a popular Indian bread known for its slightly crispy exterior and soft, chewy interior. Traditionally cooked in a tandoor (clay oven), this bread is perfect for pairing with curries, grilled meats, or enjoyed on its own. While making tandoori roti at home may seem challenging, you can achieve similar results using a regular oven or stovetop.

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole wheat flour (atta)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (maida)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 cup yogurt
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons oil or melted butter
• Water, as needed
• Butter or ghee for brushing

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
2. Add the yogurt, milk, and oil or melted butter to the dry ingredients.
3. Mix well to form a soft dough. If needed, add water a little at a time until the dough comes together.
4. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 1 hour.

Step 2: Shape the Rotis

1. Divide the rested dough into equal-sized balls, about the size of a golf ball.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll each dough ball into a circle about 1/4 inch thick. You can make them round, oval, or even teardrop-shaped.

Step 3: Cook the Rotis

Using an Oven:

1. Preheat your oven to the highest temperature (usually around 500°F or 260°C) and place a baking stone or an inverted baking sheet inside to heat up.
2. Place the rolled-out rotis on the hot baking stone or sheet.
3. Bake for about 2-3 minutes until the roti puffs up and gets brown spots. You can flip them halfway through for even cooking.

Using a Stovetop:

1. Heat a tawa (griddle) or a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Place a rolled-out roti on the hot tawa.
3. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until you see bubbles forming on the surface.
4. Flip the roti and cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes.
5. For a traditional tandoori effect, you can hold the roti with tongs and place it directly over an open flame for a few seconds until it puffs up and gets charred spots.

Step 4: Serve

1. Brush the hot rotis with butter or ghee for extra flavor.
2. Serve them immediately with your favorite curries, kebabs, or dips.

Tips for Perfect Tandoori Roti

• Rest the Dough: Allowing the dough to rest helps in making the rotis softer and easier to roll out.
• High Heat: Cooking the rotis at a high temperature mimics the traditional tandoor and gives them their characteristic texture.
• Butter or Ghee: Brushing the rotis with butter or ghee while they are hot adds flavor and keeps them soft.

Conclusion

Making tandoori roti at home is simpler than it seems and yields delicious results that pair well with a variety of dishes. With these steps, you can enjoy fresh, homemade tandoori rotis that bring the authentic taste of Indian cuisine to your kitchen. Enjoy your cooking and happy eating!