| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 292 | 14g | 6g | 34g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 0g | 5g | 8g | 0.39g |
I’ve chosen to share one of my all-time favourite recipes with you all, one close to my heart, Garlic and Asafoetida Rotis (Indian bread). This recipe brings back fond memories and, while it’s not typically a Southern or Tex-Mex dish, the vibrant flavours remind me of the blend of cultures I experienced growing up in Texas. The earthy, potent flavor of Asafoetida blended with the bold aroma of garlic balances out the rustic whole wheat flavour. It’s like a fiesta of flavours dancing on your tastebuds!
The Health Benefits
Beyond being a dream for the taste buds, Garlic and Asafoetida Rotis are fantastic for your well-being too. First and foremost, garlic is well-known to boost the natural immunity of the body, and research shows it can also help reduce blood pressure. Asafoetida, on the other hand, may appear to be an unusual ingredient, however, it is often used in Indian cuisines not only for its distinct flavour, but also for its health benefits. This powerful spice is associated with relieving IBS symptoms, lessening asthma effects and even has potential antimicrobial properties.
Complementary Dishes
Now, what are these lip-smacking traditional Indian breads good to pair with you ask? Well, they work incredibly well as a part of a hearty meal, particularly with spiced lentil soups (daals), vegetable stews, or tangy pickles like this one. My favorite? Serving them fresh off the stove, accompanied by some spiced homemade yogurt and gravy-laden chicken curry. I can guarantee you, it seems like bliss in every bite.
Garlic and Asafoetida Rotis remind me of the blend of traditions and innovative cooking methods I am used to. Creative, flavorful, and wholesome, these delectable disks of bread are a celebration of the age-old Indian cooking I fell in love with and, I’m sure, a recipe that you too will cherish.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups of whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 6 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons of asafoetida (hing)
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- Approximately 3/4 cup of water
- 1/2 cup of ghee (clarified butter) for cooking
Method
Step One
In a large bowl, combine the whole wheat flour and salt. Stir to mix them together evenly.
Step Two
Next, add the finely chopped garlic cloves and the asafoetida to the bowl. Stir again to distribute these ingredients throughout the flour.
Step Three
Drizzle in the vegetable oil, then gradually add the water while stirring. Continue to add water until the dough comes together and is no longer sticky. You may not need the entire amount of water, so add it slowly.
Step Four
Once the dough is formed, knead it on a clean, lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes, or until it is smooth and pliable.
Step Five
Divide the dough into small, equal-sized balls. Use a rolling pin to roll each ball out into a flat, thin circle.
Step Six
Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Add a little ghee to the pan, then place one of the rotis in the pan.
Step Seven
Cook the roti for a couple of minutes on one side, then flip it over and cook for a couple more minutes on the other side. The roti should be golden brown and crispy. Repeat this process with the remaining dough balls.
Step Eight
Brush each cooked roti with a little more ghee, then serve them while they’re still warm. Enjoy your garlic and asafoetida rotis on their own or with your favourite Indian curry!
