How to Make Whole Wheat Roti with Ghee (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Whole Wheat Roti with Ghee, known locally as 'Atta Roti', is a staple of North Indian cuisine, cherished across households for its simplicity and nourishing qualities. This classic Indian flatbread is made from whole wheat flour (atta) and is cooked on a tawa (griddle), then brushed with aromatic desi ghee. Its soft texture and earthy flavor pair perfectly with a variety of sabzis, dals, and curries, making it a versatile choice for lunch. Traditionally, rotis are enjoyed daily and also during festivals like Diwali and Holi, where ghee-roti symbolizes prosperity and warmth. The addition of ghee enhances not just taste but also digestibility, making it a wholesome dish for all age groups. Rooted in Indian culinary heritage, this recipe emphasizes health-conscious cooking by using whole grains and minimal ingredients, making it ideal for calorie tracking and balanced diets.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · In a large parat (mixing bowl)
In a large parat (mixing bowl), combine atta and salt. Gradually add water and knead into a soft, smooth dough. Add a little oil for extra softness, if desired.
Step 2 · Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 10 minutes
Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows gluten to relax, resulting in softer rotis.
Step 3 · Divide the dough into equal-sized balls
Divide the dough into equal-sized balls. Dust each ball with dry flour and roll out into a thin, round disc using a belan (rolling pin).
Step 4 · Heat a tawa (griddle) on medium flame
Heat a tawa (griddle) on medium flame. Place the rolled roti on the tawa and cook until bubbles appear. Flip and cook the other side until light brown spots form.
Step 5 · Optional: Roast the roti directly on an open flame for a few second...
Optional: Roast the roti directly on an open flame for a few seconds to puff it up, then remove from heat.
Step 6 · Brush the cooked roti with desi ghee while hot
Brush the cooked roti with desi ghee while hot. Serve immediately for best taste and aroma.
Step 7 · Repeat for remaining dough balls
Repeat for remaining dough balls. Serve rotis hot with your favorite sabzi or dal.
Why this recipe is healthy
Using whole wheat atta instead of refined flour increases the fiber and nutrient content, helping with blood sugar control and weight management. Ghee, when used in small amounts, boosts digestion and provides essential fatty acids. This dish is free from additives and preservatives, making it ideal for health-conscious individuals and those tracking calories for weight loss or general wellness.
A note on tradition
Whole wheat roti is a fundamental part of North Indian meals and symbolizes wholesome home-cooked food. It is often served during festivals like Diwali as a sign of prosperity and is a daily staple in Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan. Rotis are shared across generations, with recipes passed down from mothers to children, reflecting India’s agrarian roots and regional diversity.