Welcome to a culinary journey that takes you to the sun-kissed shores of Barbados, where the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean come alive in every bite. Barbados Roti, a beloved dish that reflects the rich cultural tapestry of the island, combines succulent fillings, aromatic spices, and the warm embrace of a perfectly cooked flatbread.

In this recipe, we will guide you through the art of creating Barbados Roti from the comfort of your kitchen. Immerse yourself in the tantalizing aromas and bold tastes that characterize this iconic Caribbean dish. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, get ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure that will transport you to the heart of Barbadian cuisine. Let's dive into the vibrant world of flavors that make Barbados Roti a true culinary masterpiece.

Ingredients:

For the Roti Dough:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 cup warm water (approximately)

For the Filling:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup potatoes, diced
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup green beans, chopped
• 1 cup cooked chickpeas or your choice of meat (chicken, lamb, or beef)
• 1 cup coconut milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Roti Dough:

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

2- Add the vegetable oil and gradually mix in warm water until a soft, pliable dough forms.

3- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth.

4- Divide the dough into golf ball-sized portions, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling:

1- In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat.

2- Add chopped onions and garlic, sauté until softened and aromatic.

3- Stir in curry powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder, allowing the spices to bloom for a minute.

4- Add diced potatoes, carrots, and chopped green beans. Cook for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are slightly tender.

5- Incorporate the cooked chickpeas or your choice of meat into the mixture.

6- Pour in coconut milk and simmer until the vegetables are fully cooked. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7- Allow the filling to cool, and stir in fresh cilantro.

Assemble and Cook the Roti:

1- Take one portion of the rested dough and roll it out into a thin, round circle on a floured surface.

2- Place a generous portion of the prepared filling in the center of the rolled-out dough.

3- Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, sealing it to form a pocket or parcel.

4- Repeat the process for the remaining dough portions and filling.

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

6- Cook each Roti parcel on the griddle, flipping occasionally until both sides are golden brown and cooked through.

Serve and Enjoy:

1- Serve Barbados Roti hot, either on its own or with a side of chutney or yogurt.

2- Garnish with additional fresh cilantro before serving for a burst of flavor.

Indulge in the delightful fusion of Indian-inspired spices and Caribbean flair with these homemade Barbados Roti. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the warmth of this culinary masterpiece!

Nutritional Values

It's important to note that the nutritional values provided below are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and quantities used. Additionally, the values for salt, pepper, and fresh cilantro are minimal and not included as they are typically used for seasoning in small amounts.

Nutritional Values per Serving (Assuming 6 servings):

Roti Dough:

3 cups all-purpose flour:

• 1080 calories
• 0g fat
• 225g carbohydrates
• 27g protein

benefits: A good source of energy, carbohydrates, and provides essential nutrients like iron and B-vitamins.

1 teaspoon salt:

• 0 calories
• 0g fat
• 0g carbohydrates
• 0g protein

benefits: Adds flavor and helps regulate fluid balance in the body.

1 tablespoon vegetable oil:

• 120 calories
• 14g fat
• 0g carbohydrates
• 0g protein

benefits: Contains healthy fats, vitamin E, and helps create a soft and pliable dough.

1 cup warm water (approximately):

• 0 calories
• 0g fat
• 0g carbohydrates
• 0g protein

benefits: Hydrates the flour, aids in gluten development, and contributes to the dough's texture.

Filling:

2 tablespoons vegetable oil:

• 240 calories
• 28g fat
• 0g carbohydrates
• 0g protein

benefits: Provides healthy fats for cooking and enhances the flavor of the filling.

1 onion, finely chopped:

• 46 calories
• 0g fat
• 11g carbohydrates
• 1g protein

benefits: Adds flavor and contains antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.

2 cloves garlic, minced:

• 8 calories
• 0g fat
• 2g carbohydrates
• 0g protein

benefits: Known for its potential health benefits, including boosting the immune system and providing antioxidants.

1 tablespoon curry powder:

• 20 calories
• 1g fat
• 3g carbohydrates
• 1g protein

benefits: A blend of spices with potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

1 teaspoon ground cumin:

• 8 calories
• 0g fat
• 1g carbohydrates
• 0g protein

benefits: Adds a distinctive flavor and may have digestive benefits.

1 teaspoon ground coriander:

• 6 calories
• 0g fat
• 1g carbohydrates
• 0g protein

benefits: Enhances the aroma and flavor, also providing antioxidants.

1/2 teaspoon turmeric:

• 4 calories
• 0g fat
• 1g carbohydrates
• 0g protein

benefits: Known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste):

• 4 calories
• 0g fat
• 1g carbohydrates
• 0g protein

benefits: Adds heat and may have metabolism-boosting properties.

1 cup potatoes, diced:

• 115 calories
• 0g fat
• 26g carbohydrates
• 3g protein

benefits: A good source of carbohydrates, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals.

1 cup carrots, diced:

• 52 calories
• 0g fat
• 12g carbohydrates
• 1g protein

benefits: Rich in beta-carotene, fiber, and vitamins, promoting eye and skin health.

1 cup green beans, chopped:

• 31 calories
• 0g fat
• 7g carbohydrates
• 2g protein

benefits: Low in calories, high in fiber, and a good source of vitamins like A, C, and K.

1 cup cooked chickpeas or your choice of meat:

• (values vary based on specific meat)

benefits: A source of protein, essential for muscle health and overall body function.

Coconut Milk:

1 cup coconut milk:

• 552 calories
• 57g fat
• 6g carbohydrates
• 5g protein

benefits: Adds richness and a creamy texture; contains healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to skin and heart health.

Total (excluding meat):

• Calories: 3272
• Fat: 100g
• Carbohydrates: 314g
• Protein: 41g

These values are approximations and can vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods. If you have specific dietary concerns, it's recommended to calculate the nutritional values based on the exact brands and quantities you use.