The Art of Making Whole Wheat Flatbread: A Step-by-Step Guide

Whole wheat flat bread, also known as chapati, is a staple in many Indian and Middle Eastern cuisines. Not only is it a delicious accompaniment to various dishes, but it's also a great way to enjoy whole grains in a tasty and convenient form. In this article, we'll take you through the process of making whole wheat flat bread from scratch.

Step 1: Mixing the Dough

Begin by combining 2 cups of whole wheat flour with 1 teaspoon of salt in a large mixing bowl. Gradually add 1/4 cup of oil and enough water to form a stiff dough. You may need to adjust the amount of water depending on the humidity in your area.

Step 2: Kneading the Dough

Once you have formed the dough, knead it on a lightly floured surface until it becomes smooth and pliable. This should take about 5 minutes. Cover the dough with a damp towel and set it aside in a warm place for an hour to allow it to rise.

Step 3: Dividing the Dough

After the dough has risen, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 14 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and cover them with a damp towel.

Step 4: Rolling Out the Chapatis

Heat an ungreased griddle or large frying pan over medium heat. Pick up one of the dough balls, shake off any excess flour, and place it on the hot pan. Using your hands, flatten the dough into a circle about 6 inches in diameter. Add a small amount of flour as needed to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Cooking the Chapatis

Cook the chapati for about a minute on each side, or until brown spots appear. Repeat with the remaining dough balls.

Tips and Variations

* To achieve the perfect puff, make sure the griddle is hot before adding the chapati.

* If your chapati puffs up too much while cooking, you can press it down gently with a spatula to flatten it.

* Experiment with different seasonings and spices, such as garlic or cumin, to give your chapatis added flavor.

Making whole wheat flat bread is a simple process that requires some practice, but yields delicious results. With this step-by-step guide, you'll be well on your way to creating authentic Indian-style chapatis at home. Whether you're looking for a healthy snack or a tasty accompaniment to your favorite dishes, whole wheat flat bread is the perfect choice.