Introduction

Jowar Roti, or Sorghum Flatbread, is a nutritious and gluten-free staple from Indian cuisine, especially popular in regions like Maharashtra and Karnataka. Made from jowar (sorghum) flour, these rotis are rich in fiber, protein, and essential minerals, making them an excellent choice for a healthy diet. Jowar rotis are typically enjoyed with vegetable curries, dals, or chutneys, providing a wholesome and satisfying meal. Let’s explore how to make these delicious and healthy flatbreads at home.

Ingredients

• 2 cups Jowar (Sorghum) Flour
• 1 1/2 cups Water (approximately)
• Salt to taste
• Ghee or Oil for cooking

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

1. Boil Water:
   • Bring 1 1/2 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan.
   • Add a pinch of salt to the boiling water.
2. Mix the Flour:
   • In a large mixing bowl, place the jowar flour.
   • Gradually pour the boiling water into the flour, mixing it with a spoon or spatula until the mixture comes together.
3. Knead the Dough:
   • Let the mixture cool slightly until it’s warm to the touch.
   • Using your hands, knead the mixture into a smooth and pliable dough. If needed, add more hot water to achieve the right consistency.
4. Rest the Dough:
   • Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. This helps in making the dough more manageable.

Step 2: Shaping the Rotis

1. Divide the Dough:
   • Divide the dough into equal portions, roughly the size of a golf ball.
   • Roll each portion into a smooth ball.
2. Roll Out the Rotis:
   • Dust a clean surface with a little jowar flour.
   • Flatten one dough ball and start rolling it out gently with a rolling pin into a thin, even circle about 6-7 inches in diameter. Jowar flour is gluten-free, so the dough may crack around the edges; use your fingers to smooth out any cracks.

Step 3: Cooking the Rotis

1. Heat the Griddle:
   • Preheat a tawa or flat griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the Roti:
   • Place the rolled-out roti on the hot tawa.
   • Cook for about 30-40 seconds, or until small bubbles start to form on the surface.
   • Flip the roti using a spatula and cook the other side for another 30-40 seconds.
3. Press and Puff:
   • Press the edges of the roti gently with a clean cloth or spatula to help it puff up.
   • Flip again and cook for a few more seconds until both sides have light brown spots and the roti is cooked through.
4. Apply Ghee:
   • If desired, brush the cooked roti with a little ghee or oil for added flavor and softness.
5. Repeat:
   • Repeat the rolling and cooking process with the remaining dough balls.

Step 4: Serving the Jowar Roti

1. Serve Hot:
   • Serve the Jowar Rotis hot, directly from the griddle to the plate, for the best texture and flavor.
   • Pair them with your favorite vegetable curries, dals, chutneys, or even a dollop of yogurt.

Tips for Making Perfect Jowar Rotis

• Hot Water: Using hot water to mix the dough helps in making the rotis softer and easier to roll.
• Kneading: Knead the dough well to make it smooth and pliable. Resting the dough is crucial for easier rolling.
• Rolling Technique: Be gentle while rolling the dough, as it lacks gluten and can crack easily. Use flour sparingly to avoid dryness.
• Cooking: Ensure the tawa is hot enough before placing the roti on it to achieve perfect puffing and cooking.

Conclusion

Jowar Roti is a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional wheat-based flatbreads. These gluten-free sorghum rotis are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile, pairing well with a variety of dishes. Whether you enjoy them with a spicy curry, a comforting dal, or a tangy chutney, Jowar Rotis bring a wholesome and healthy touch to your meals. Try this recipe and enjoy the benefits of sorghum in a tasty and satisfying way!