What are Chapatis?

Chapatis are Indian breads, also called rotis. There are a number of different variations on chapatis, but as a general rule they include some type of flour, salt, and water. These ingredients are mixed to form a dough which is formed into flat discs which can be grilled or fried, depending on the region. Many Indian meals come with chapatis, designed to pick up or push food. With some practice, they are relatively easy to make.

The base of chapatis is flour. Many are made with wheat flour, also called atta. Corn, graham, barley, and millet can all be used for chapatis as well, and sometimes a blend of flours is used. Salt is added to taste, followed by water, which can be replaced by milk or yogurt for a softer, richer chapati. Finally, other ingredients such as spices and vegetables may be added for specific recipes.

In Gujarat, chapatis which are toasted so that they are crispy are known as khakra. Khakra may be spread with chutney and other ingredients, and it is a popular breakfast food. Thicker chapatis known as rotlas are often made with millet flour. Puris, or pooris, are chapatis fried in oil so that they are crispy, and puris often form large bubbles as well. Since they are fried, puris should be eaten hot.

A popular version of the chapati is a paratha, a formal chapati made with ghee instead of oil and often filled with things like potatoes or meat. Parathas are somewhat tricky to make, and they are served to guests, rather than being eaten casually at home. Street stands may also offer parathas, usually made hot in a variety of flavors and brushed with ghee after they have been cooked on a griddle.

Unlike naan, another popular Indian bread, chapatis are not leavened. They are more common in Northern India, although Indian restaurants outside of India may offer both naans and rotis, since the fluffy yeast breads and flat breads are in equally high demand. For home-made Indian meals, chapatis are a great deal of fun to make, especially when cooks start experimenting with fillers and interesting additions.

To make chapatis, mix one cup of flour with a pinch of salt and add two tablespoons of oil or melted ghee. Add around 1/3 cup water and knead, forming a thick dough. Break off small pieces of the dough, form balls, and roll the balls out. Cook these basic chapatis on a griddle, and serve warm.