Making Chaler Roti at home is easier than one might think. With just a few simple ingredients and an easy process, anyone can prepare this delightful and versatile flatbread. Perfect for breakfast or a quick snack, Chaler Roti, also known as rice flour flatbread, is a gluten-free alternative that can be enjoyed with a variety of accompaniments.
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Chaler Roti or Chawal ki Roti comes with a rich history and cultural significance in many regions of India. Traditionally, it is prepared during Makar Sankranti, the harvest festival celebrated under various names across India. Known as Ari Pathiri in Kerala, Tandalachi Bhakri in Maharashtra, Chokha na Rotla in Gujarat, and Akki Roti in Karnataka, this rice-based flatbread is cherished in many Indian states. In Bangladesh, it is called Ruti Pitha or Chaler Pitha. Each region has its unique twist, but the core preparation remains largely the same.
Chaler Roti, made from rice flour, is a gluten-free food to eat. Often, rice flour is avoided because of its higher amount of carbohydrates, but the best part of having rice is that it provides more energy and stamina and helps you gain muscle and recover. Roti, made from rice flour, has zinc and magnesium in it, helping muscles get stronger.
Also, selenium and magnesium in rice flour help control LDL cholesterol and lower the risk of heart disease following its natural antioxidants. Addedly, Chawal roti has a lot of fibre that helps in digestion and relieves bowel issues. Phosphorus and magnesium also keep bones healthy by ensuring that vitamin D levels are right. Last but not least, iron, selenium, and niacin, present in rice flour, also improve the immune system.
How to Prepare Chaler Roti At Home
Gather the Ingredients
Ingredients Needed:
- 1 cup rice flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Additional rice flour for rolling
These basic ingredients are all you need to make Chaler Roti. Now, here are the steps you need to follow.
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Boil The Water
Begin by boiling 1 cup of water with the salt. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, reduce the heat to a minimum. This step is crucial as it ensures the rice flour mixes well with the water, forming a smooth dough.
Mix In The Rice Flour
Now, you have to add the rice flour to the boiling water and keep stirring continuously. Thus, it will prevent lumps from forming and ensure a consistent texture. Let the mixture cook for 1-2 minutes before turning off the heat. Next, allow the mixture to rest under a closed lid for 10 minutes. This resting period helps the flour absorb the water properly.
Knead The Dough
Once the mixture has cooled slightly, knead it into a smooth dough. Kneading is a vital step as it ensures the dough is pliable and easy to roll. Now, the next step is to divide the dough into six equal-sized balls. Why is this step important? It's because keeping these equal-sized balls ready makes it easier to handle and roll out into flatbreads.
Roll The Dough Balls
Take each dough ball and roll it out using additional rice flour to prevent sticking. Aim for a thin, even consistency. This helps the rotis cook evenly and achieve the desired texture.
Heat a pan over medium heat. Place a rolled-out dough circle on the hot pan. Cook each side until small brown spots appear, indicating that the roti is cooked. This usually takes about 1-2 minutes per side. Repeat with the remaining dough balls.