
Roti Canai with Dhal
Breakfast • Malaysia
How to Make Roti Canai with Dhal (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Roti Canai with Dhal is a beloved Malaysian breakfast classic that showcases the nation's rich multicultural heritage. Originating from Indian Muslim communities in Malaysia, this dish features flaky, crispy roti canai paired with a comforting dhal curry. Roti canai is made from a simple dough, expertly flipped and pan-cooked to achieve its signature texture, while dhal is a fragrant lentil stew enriched with local spices and aromatics like daun kari (curry leaves) and kunyit (turmeric). Malaysians from all backgrounds enjoy Roti Canai with Dhal, whether at bustling mamak stalls or at home with family. Its combination of soft, chewy bread and protein-rich dhal offers a satisfying, balanced meal that’s naturally vegetarian. The dhal is gently spiced, making it suitable for all ages, and can be easily adapted for health-conscious eaters. This dish truly highlights Malaysia’s multicultural blend, using local ingredients and time-honored methods to create a breakfast that’s both nourishing and deeply comforting.
Ingredients(for 1 medium roti with 1 small bowl dhal)
- 1 cup Whole wheat flour (tepung gandum)
- 1/2 cup Water
- 1/2 tsp Salt (garam)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil (or minyak masak)
- 1/2 cup Yellow lentils (kacang dal)
- 1 small Onion (bawang merah, finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic (bawang putih, minced)
- 1/2 inch Ginger (halia, grated)
- 1/2 tsp Turmeric powder (serbuk kunyit)
- 1 tsp Curry powder (serbuk kari)
- 6-8 leaves Curry leaves (daun kari)
- 1 small Tomato (diced)
- 1/4 cup Carrot (diced, optional) - optional
- 1.5 cups Water (for dhal)
Instructions
- 1
Prepare the roti canai dough by mixing whole wheat flour, salt, and water until a soft dough forms. Knead for 5 minutes, then add 1 tbsp olive oil and knead again. Cover and let rest for at least 10 minutes.
10 minutes
Resting is crucial for softer, stretchable dough.
- 2
Divide the dough into two balls. Lightly oil your hands and flatten each ball into a thin sheet, as thin as possible without tearing.
5 minutes
The thinner you stretch, the flakier the roti.
- 3
Fold the edges of the dough inwards, roll into a coil, then flatten gently. Heat a non-stick pan with a little olive oil. Cook each roti for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp.
8 minutes
Cook on medium heat for even browning.
- 4
For the dhal, rinse yellow lentils and boil with 1 cup water, turmeric powder, and salt until soft (about 10 minutes). Mash gently for a creamy texture.
10 minutes
Soak lentils beforehand for faster cooking.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This healthy Malaysian Roti Canai with Dhal recipe uses whole wheat flour and minimal oil, reducing saturated fat and boosting fiber content. The dhal is rich in protein and nutrients, making it filling and suitable for weight management or those seeking a heart-healthy diet. The use of plant-based ingredients and local spices ensures a flavorful yet wholesome meal, perfect for a healthy lifestyle.
This Roti Canai with Dhal recipe is a balanced vegetarian meal, providing complex carbohydrates from whole wheat flour and lentils, plant-based protein from dhal, and healthy fats from olive oil. Lentils are rich in fiber, folate, and iron, supporting digestion and energy, while spices like turmeric and ginger have anti-inflammatory properties. Using less oil and whole wheat flour increases fiber and micronutrients, making this a nourishing breakfast option.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Let the dough rest well to achieve a soft, elastic texture for easier stretching.
- 💡Tip 2: Use a non-stick or cast iron pan for crispier roti with less oil.
- 💡Tip 3: Sauté spices until fragrant to unlock their full aroma in the dhal.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover dhal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Roti canai can be kept in a sealed bag at room temperature for 1 day or refrigerated for 2 days. Reheat on a dry pan before serving.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 290.0 kcal |
| Protein | 8.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 46.0 g |
| Total Fat | 8.0 g |
| Fiber | 2.8 g |
| Sugars | 1.1 g |
| Sodium | 310.0 mg |
| Potassium | 120.0 mg |
| Cholesterol | 5.0 mg |
| Vitamin A | 45.0 IU |
| Vitamin C | 2.0 mg |
| Calcium | 38.0 mg |
| Iron | 1.7 mg |
| Magnesium | 22.0 mg |
| Zinc | 0.5 mg |
| Phosphorus | 60.0 mg |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 IU |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin B3 (Niacin) | 0.8 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.0 µg |
| Folate | 26.0 µg |





