Paratha, the flaky flatbread everyone should know how to make.

Introduction

In this tutorial, you'll learn how to make delicious, flaky parathas, a popular Indian flatbread. Parathas are soft, versatile, and perfect for a variety of meals. Once you master this recipe, you can enjoy them fresh or freeze them for later use. Let's get started with the steps to make perfect parathas.

Step 1: Mixing the Dough

To prepare the dough for your parathas, follow these steps:

1. Gather Ingredients:

   • Whole wheat flour (atta)
   • Water (as needed)
   • Salt (optional, to taste)
   • Ghee or oil (for layering)

2. Combine Ingredients:

   • In a mixing bowl, add whole wheat flour and a pinch of salt.
   • Gradually add water while mixing until the dough comes together. Aim for a soft and pliable consistency.

3. Knead the Dough:

   • Knead the dough on a clean surface for about 5-10 minutes until smooth.
   • Cover the dough with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This helps relax the gluten.

Step 2: Testing Folding Methods

The key to flaky parathas is how you fold the dough. Here are two common methods:

1. Basic Folding Method:

   • Roll out a small portion of the rested dough into a circle.
   • Spread a thin layer of ghee or oil over the surface.
   • Fold the dough in half, then fold again to form a triangle.
   • Roll out the triangle gently to form a flat paratha.

2. Layered Folding Method:

   • Roll out the dough into a circle and spread ghee or oil.
   • Make a series of folds (like a paper fan) to create layers.
   • Finally, roll it out into a flat circle again. This method will yield a flakier texture.

Step 3: Cooking the Paratha

You can use two different methods to cook your parathas:

1. Pan-Frying Method:

   • Preheat a cast iron griddle or non-stick pan over medium heat.
   • Once hot, place the rolled-out paratha on the pan.
   • Cook for about 1-2 minutes or until you see bubbles forming.
   • Flip the paratha, then add ghee or oil around the edges. Cook for another minute until golden brown.
   • Repeat with remaining dough.

2. Oven Method:

   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Place the rolled parathas on a baking sheet and brush with ghee.
   • Bake for about 10-12 minutes until golden and flaky, flipping halfway through.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to make flaky parathas, you can enjoy them fresh or freeze them for later use. Experiment with different fillings or serve them with your favorite curries. Don't hesitate to practice the folding techniques to find the method that works best for you. Happy cooking!