Get ready to sink your teeth into a big, fluffy hot Indian roti—lightly crisp on the edges, yet oh-so-soft in the middle. Pair with rich and creamy butter chicken for a truly indulgent meal, or enjoy the perfect combination of textures when you scoop up this vegan tikka masala.

A folded roti on a pile of rotis on a decorative plate.
Whip up a batch of Indian rotis in minutes – a quick and nutritious flatbread option.

Those early moments with my grandmother were the beginning of a delicious journey—one filled with laughter, love, and, of course, lots of roti! Now, as a dietitian, I’m thrilled to share this treasured family recipe with you. And I invite you to experience the joy and nostalgia it brings as you create your own cherished memories around the tava.

So, grab your rolling pin and let’s make some magic together!

Nutrition highlights

Yes, this easy roti recipe is a source of goodness:

  • Dietary fiber galore, all thanks to whole wheat atta (flour)! Yes to better blood sugar control!
  • Zero oil involved—because why not keep things light and easy?
  • Plus, a source of protein to keep those hunger pangs at bay!

Roti ingredients

Let’s delve into the essentials for crafting these soft and delightful flatbreads:

A selection of food ingredients like flour, water and spices on a yellow placemat.
  1. Whole Wheat Flour: The heart and soul of roti, whole wheat flour (atta) provides the base for that wholesome and nutty flavour.
  2. Water: Simple, yet crucial! Adding warm water to the flour helps form the dough and activates the gluten for a soft texture.
  3. Dash of Salt: Just a dash is enough to enhance the taste and balance the flavours in your roti.

How to make roti

Flour topped with salt and seeds in a stand mixer bowl.
Step 1: Start by combining whole wheat flour, carom seeds, salt and warm water in a mixing bowl.
Roti dough in a stand mixer bowl on a yellow placemat.
Warm water helps to activate the gluten in the flour, resulting in a softer and more pliable dough. You can use a stand mixer for mixing – if you prefer.
Roti dough in a glass container.
Step 2: Transfer the dough to an airtight container and rest in the fridge overnight. This makes it easier to roll out because the dough is less sticky.
Dough divided into eight rough pieces.
Step 3: Dust the surface with flour and divide the dough into eight small balls.
Eight balls of flour on a flour-dusted surface.
Step 4: Prepare the Dough: Take each dough ball and roll it in your hands to make it smooth and ready for rolling. This step ensures a soft and consistent texture.
A thick flattened dough dusted with lots of flour on a flour-dusted worktop.
Step 5: Coat the Dough Ball: Take one ball and coat it generously with flour, making sure to cover all sides. This will prevent sticking and ensure smooth rolling of the roti.
A rolled-out roti on a worktop with a rolling pin nearby.
Step 6: Roll evenly into a 6-inch roti for consistent cooking and uniform puffing. Remember to lightly flour the roti on both sides as you roll them out to maintain smoothness. Avoid adding too much flour.
An uncooked roti on a flat pan.
Step 7: Make sure the tava or skillet is adequately heated before placing the rolled-out roti on it. A hot surface helps the roti cook evenly and prevents sticking.
A roti puffing on a flat pan.
Step 8: Cook each roti for a few seconds on each side until it puffs up. Use a clean kitchen towel to press the roti down gently, helping it poof up for that soft and fluffy goodness.
A roti cooking and puffing up on a flat pan.
Your roti should end up with beautiful golden brown spots.
A stack of rotis on a pink striped kitchen towel.
Serve immediately – hot off the tave.

Cooking method tip to achieve perfectly soft roti

Mind the cooking time—avoid overcooking, which can result in a dry, tough texture. Cook until just puffed and golden brown on both sides.

Food safe storage

Best savored fresh and warm, our oil-free roti retains its softness when enjoyed immediately. For small batches, keep them covered by wrapping in a clean kitchen towel. Remember, they lose their softness over time. If you need to store them, a touch of oil or ghee will help prevent drying out.

A collection of cooked rotis unfolding on a decorative plate.

Why is my roti never soft?

Been there, done that! Through my roti-making journey, I’ve stumbled upon a few game-changers that totally transformed my roti game:

  • Insufficient Kneading: Skipping the kneading can affect the dough’s elasticity, leading to less-than-soft rotis.
  • Uneven Rolling: Whether your roti ends up too thick or too thin, it can throw off the cooking process and impact the softness.

But no worries!

Pay attention to cooking time, give that dough a solid knead, and roll it out evenly. With a bit of practice, you’ll be whipping up soft rotis like a pro in no time! 🙂

Flatlay of a pile of rotis with the top one folded styled on a decorative plate.

Remember, even if your roti’s shape is more abstract art than perfect circle, it’s all part of the fun! Share your feedback in the comments below, rate the recipe, and if you’re feeling extra excited, snap a picture of your roti and share it on Instagram with the hashtag #DesiliciousRD. Let’s celebrate the joy of cooking together and keep this tradition alive!

Desi~liciously Yours, Shahzadi
A perspective image of a folded roti on a pile of rotis on a decorative plate.
RD Approved Badge - Staying Power
A folded roti on a pile of rotis on a decorative plate.
5 stars (3 reviews)

Get the Recipe:

Fresh And Hot Soft Indian Roti Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Resting time: 1 day
Total Time: 1 day 30 minutes
Yield: 8 rotis
Get ready to sink your teeth into a big, fluffy hot Indian roti—lightly crisp on the edges, yet oh-so-soft in the middle. Pair with rich and creamy butter chicken for a truly indulgent meal, or enjoy the perfect combination of textures when you scoop up this vegan tikka masala.

Ingredients
 

  • cups wholewheat roti flour, plus extra for dusting and rolling
  • ½ tbsp carom seeds
  • 1 tsp salt, sea salt
  • cups water, lukewarm

Equipment

  • 1 stand mixer optional

Instructions
 

  • Combine: In a mixing bowl, mix whole wheat flour, carom seeds, salt, and warm water until it forms a soft dough. You can also use a stand mixer if you prefer.
  • Rest: Transfer the dough to an airtight container and let it rest overnight in the fridge.
  • Divide & Roll: Dust the surface. Divide the dough into eight small balls. Take each dough ball and roll it in your hands to make it smooth and ready for rolling. This step ensures a soft and consistent texture in your roti. Take one ball and coat it generously with flour, making sure to cover all sides. This will prevent sticking and ensure smooth rolling of the roti. Roll evenly into a 6-inch roti for consistent cooking and uniform puffing. Remember to lightly flour the roti on both sides as you roll them out to maintain smoothness. Avoid adding too much flour.
  • Heat Tava & cook: Preheat the tava or skillet until hot before placing the rolled-out roti on it. Cook each roti for a few seconds on each side until it puffs up and develops golden brown spots. It's best to use a clean kitchen towel to gently press and rotate the roti, helping it poof up for a soft and fluffy texture. Repeat the process with the remaining seven balls of dough.

Notes

Food safe storage

  • Keep Covered: Wrap the cooked rotis in a clean kitchen towel to keep them warm and soft. Indian roti is best enjoyed immediately, fresh off the tava, but if you need to store them, adding a bit of oil or ghee prevents them from drying out.

Why is my roti never soft?

  • Overcooking: Cooking the roti for too long can lead to a dry and tough texture.
  • Insufficient Kneading: Not kneading the dough thoroughly can affect its elasticity and softness.
  • Uneven Rolling: Rolling the dough too thick or thin may result in uneven cooking, affecting the softness of the roti.
  • Mastering the Art: By paying attention to cooking time, kneading, and rolling, you can achieve that perfect softness in your roti with practice and precision.

Nutrition Information:

Calories: 142kcal (7%)Carbohydrates: 29g (10%)Protein: 4g (8%)Fat: 1g (2%)Sodium: 293mg (12%)Potassium: 125mg (4%)Fiber: 4g (16%)Sugar: 3g (3%)Calcium: 14mg (1%)Iron: 2mg (11%)

Keep in mind that the nutritional values provided are approximations and suggestions, and might fluctuate depending on ingredient variations, portion sizes, and recipe adjustments. This nutrition facts table cannot account for your individual needs. Your body — including your hunger and satiety cues — change daily. It’s perfectly fine to eat more or less on different days. Instead of letting food guilt take over, consider mindful eating.

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Cuisine: Indian
Course: Side
Did you make this recipe?Mention @desiliciousrd on Instagram or tag #desiliciousrd.