Roti is a versatile and popular flatbread originating from the Indian subcontinent, widely enjoyed across South Asia and the Caribbean. The dough is typically made from whole wheat flour, water, and a pinch of salt, kneaded until smooth and pliable. After resting, the dough is divided into small balls, rolled out into thin discs, and cooked on a hot griddle until puffed and golden brown. Roti is often served as a wrap, filled with a variety of curried vegetables, chicken, beef, or goat, making it a hearty and flavorful meal.

Roti has ancient origins, with roots tracing back thousands of years in the Indian subcontinent. It has been a staple in Indian cuisine due to its simplicity, nutritional value, and the ease of growing wheat in the region. The flatbread spread throughout Asia and the Middle East, influenced by trade routes and conquests. In the Caribbean, roti became a beloved dish following the migration of Indian indentured laborers in the 19th century. Today, roti continues to be a fundamental part of many cultural cuisines, evolving with regional tastes and ingredients.

Ingredients

- 2 cups whole wheat flour

- 1 cup water (approximately)

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee (optional)

Method of Preparation

Mix Ingredients:

  - In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour and salt.

  - Gradually add water while mixing until the dough starts to come together.

Knead the Dough:

  - Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface.

  - Knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.

  - Optionally, add oil or ghee while kneading to make the dough softer.

  - Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.

3. Divide and Shape:

  - Divide the rested dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.

  - Flatten each ball slightly with your hands.

Roll Out the Dough:

  - Using a rolling pin, roll each ball into a thin, round disc, about 6-8 inches in diameter.

  - Ensure the discs are evenly thin to cook properly.

Cook the Roti:

  - Heat a griddle or skillet over medium-high heat.

  - Place a rolled-out disc onto the hot griddle.

  - Cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, until bubbles start to form on the surface.

  - Flip the roti and cook the other side for another 30 seconds to 1 minute.

  - Press gently with a cloth or spatula to encourage puffing.

  - Once both sides have golden-brown spots, remove from heat.

Serve:

  - Keep the cooked roti warm in a clean towel while you cook the remaining discs.

  - Serve hot with your choice of curried vegetables, chicken, beef, or goat.

Enjoy your homemade roti!

Nutrition Value:

2 cups whole wheat flour

  - Calories: Approximately 800 calories

  - Carbohydrates: 170 grams

  - Protein: 32 grams

  - Fat: 4 grams

  - Sodium: 0 milligrams (naturally occurring)

  - Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

  - Vitamins: B vitamins (B1, B3, B5, B6), Vitamin E

  - Minerals: Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Zinc, Selenium

Benefits: Whole wheat flour is high in dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight. It provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and contains essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health, including immune function and bone health.

1 cup water (approximately)

  - Calories: 0 calories

  - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

  - Protein: 0 grams

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Sodium: 0 milligrams

  - Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

  - Vitamins: None

  - Minerals: Trace amounts of minerals depending on the water source

Benefits: Water is essential for all bodily functions, including digestion, nutrient absorption, and temperature regulation. It helps maintain hydration and supports the metabolism of nutrients.

1 teaspoon salt

  - Calories: 0 calories

  - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

  - Protein: 0 grams

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Sodium: Approximately 2,300 milligrams

  - Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

  - Vitamins: None

  - Minerals: Sodium, Trace amounts of other minerals

Benefits: Salt (sodium) is essential for maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions. However, it should be consumed in moderation to avoid adverse effects on blood pressure and heart health.

2 tablespoons oil or ghee (optional)

  - Calories: Approximately 240 calories

  - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

  - Protein: 0 grams

  - Fat: 28 grams

  - Sodium: 0 milligrams

  - Cholesterol: Varies (Ghee contains cholesterol, while vegetable oil does not)

  - Vitamins: Vitamin E (in vegetable oil), Vitamin A (in ghee)

  - Minerals: Trace amounts of various minerals depending on the source

Benefits: Oils and ghee provide essential fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins. Ghee, a type of clarified butter, is rich in conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and butyrate, which may support digestive health and reduce inflammation. Vegetable oils, particularly those high in unsaturated fats, can support heart health by improving cholesterol levels when used in moderation.

Combined Nutritional Profile for Basic Roti Recipe (excluding optional oil/ghee)

- Calories: Approximately 800 calories (without oil/ghee)

- Carbohydrates: 170 grams

- Protein: 32 grams

- Fat: 4 grams (without oil/ghee)

- Sodium: 2,300 milligrams

- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

- Vitamins: B vitamins, Vitamin E

- Minerals: Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Zinc, Selenium

Adding oil or ghee will increase the calorie and fat content, and if using ghee, it will also add cholesterol and Vitamin A. The basic roti recipe is a good source of complex carbohydrates and protein, with essential vitamins and minerals, supporting energy levels, digestion, and overall health.