Tandoori roti is a beloved Indian flatbread known for its earthy flavor, crispy edges, and soft center. Traditionally cooked in a clay oven, or tandoor, this bread gets a distinct smoky aroma and beautifully charred spots that make it a perfect companion for rich curries and spiced dishes.
Though typically made in a tandoor, you can easily recreate the magic at home using a standard oven or even a stovetop pan for similar results. The dough is simple, made with whole wheat flour, yogurt, and a few pantry staples, yet the outcome is a deliciously versatile bread that pairs well with almost any meal. This guide will walk you through every step to make soft, flavorful tandoori roti that captures the essence of traditional Indian cooking.
Key Ingredients for an Easy Tandoori Roti Recipe
- Whole wheat flour – 2 cups
- All-purpose flour (optional) – ¼ cup
- Plain yogurt – ¼ cup
- Salt – ½ teaspoon
- Baking powder – 1 teaspoon
- Sugar – ½ teaspoon
- Water – as needed for kneading
- Ghee or oil – 1 tablespoon, plus extra for brushing
Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour for resting the dough)
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
How to Make Tandoori Roti (Step-by-Step Instructions)
1. Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, mix the whole wheat flour, optional all-purpose flour, salt, sugar, and baking powder.
Add the yogurt and mix to create a crumbly texture.
Gradually add water, kneading until the dough becomes soft and smooth. It should be slightly firmer than chapati dough.
Add the ghee or oil and knead again. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and rest for 1 hour to make it more elastic.
2. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) or the highest temperature it allows.
Place a baking sheet or pizza stone in the oven while preheating, as a hot surface will help the rotis cook quickly and create the traditional charred effect.
3. Shape the Rotis
Once the dough has rested, divide it into 8 equal parts and roll each into a ball.
Roll out each ball into a circle around 4-5 inches in diameter, keeping it slightly thicker than a regular chapati.
4. Bake the Rotis
Carefully place each rolled-out roti on the hot baking sheet or pizza stone.
Bake for 3-5 minutes until bubbles form on the surface and the roti puffs up.
To add a charred finish, switch the oven to broil for 1-2 minutes or until dark spots appear on the surface. Watch closely to avoid burning.
5. Brush and Serve
Remove the rotis from the oven, and brush with ghee or butter for added richness.
Serve hot with your favorite curry or dal.
Alternative Cooking Process (Stovetop Version)
If you don’t have an oven, use a heavy iron tawa or skillet.
Heat the Tawa: Preheat a tawa or skillet on medium-high heat until very hot.
Prepare the Dough: Follow the same dough preparation as above.
Roll and Wet the Dough: Roll out the dough and brush one side lightly with water to help it stick to the tawa.
Cook on the Tawa: Place the wet side down on the tawa, cook for 30 seconds, then flip the tawa upside down over the open flame, letting the roti cook directly on the flame for a charred effect. Rotate for even cooking.
Serve: Brush with ghee and serve immediately.
Taste and Texture
Tandoori roti cooked in the oven or on the stovetop has a soft, chewy center with crispy, slightly charred edges. The smoky flavor complements any Indian curry or spiced dish, while the brushing of ghee or butter adds richness.
Health Benefits
Whole wheat flour makes tandoori roti rich in fiber and essential nutrients, offering a healthier option than refined-flour naan. This high-fiber content aids in digestion, keeps you full longer, and provides steady energy.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
Expert Tips
High Oven Temperature: For the best results in the oven, use the highest setting and a hot baking sheet or pizza stone.
Use Water on the Tawa Version: Applying water to one side of the dough helps the roti stick to the tawa and provides an even cook when flipped.
Variations
Garlic Tandoori Roti: Add minced garlic to the dough for a garlic-flavored version.
Stuffed Tandoori Roti: Fill with mashed potatoes or spiced paneer for a heartier option.
Vegan Tandoori Roti: Substitute yogurt with plant-based yogurt and ghee with oil.
Final Thoughts
Homemade tandoori roti is a delightful way to add a touch of authentic Indian flavor to your meals. This simple recipe lets you enjoy tandoori roti from the comfort of home – no clay oven required! Try it both ways and enjoy the restaurant-style flavor of freshly baked tandoori roti with your favorite Indian dishes.
What is the difference between tandoori roti and naan?
Tandoori roti is made from whole wheat flour and usually has a denser texture, while naan is typically made from all-purpose flour and is softer due to the addition of yeast or other leavening agents. Naan also often includes dairy, like milk or yogurt, making it richer than tandoori roti.
Can tandoori roti be made without a tandoor?
Yes, tandoori roti can be made at home using a conventional oven with a preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. It can also be prepared on a stovetop with a cast-iron skillet or tawa, which mimics the high heat of a tandoor.
Why is yogurt added to the dough?
Yogurt adds a slight tanginess and softness to the dough, which helps make the roti more tender. It also enhances the flavor and provides a balanced chewiness.
Is tandoori roti healthy?
Tandoori roti is considered a healthy bread option, especially when made with whole wheat flour. It’s high in fiber and contains fewer calories and fat compared to breads like naan.
How can you get the smoky flavor without a tandoor?
Broiling the roti in the oven for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking adds slight charred spots that resemble the smoky flavor from a tandoor. Additionally, brushing the roti with ghee after cooking adds richness that complements the slight charring.
Can tandoori roti be stored?
Tandoori roti is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container for up to 1 day. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze the roti and reheat on a tawa or in the oven for the best texture.
What dishes pair well with tandoori roti?
Tandoori roti pairs well with Indian curries, dals, and gravies like butter chicken, paneer tikka masala, and dal makhani. Its mild flavor complements spiced and creamy dishes, balancing the flavors of Indian meals.
What if the roti doesn’t puff up?
If the roti doesn’t puff, it could be due to the dough’s consistency or insufficient heat. Ensure the oven or tawa is very hot before placing the roti on it, and try pressing lightly with a spatula to encourage puffing.