Methi Jowar Roti (Fenugreek & Millet Flatbread) – A Rajasthani Gluten-Free Delight
Introduction
Methi Jowar Roti, a traditional Rajasthani flatbread, is an exceptional gluten-free option, combining the rich nutrients of fenugreek (methi) leaves and the wholesome goodness of Jowar (sorghum) flour. This delectable flatbread is not only healthy but also packed with flavor, thanks to the subtle bitterness of fresh fenugreek leaves balanced by the nutty sweetness of Jowar flour. The beauty of Methi Jowar Roti lies in its simplicity and the fact that it can be made quickly with minimal ingredients. Cooked in the traditional style of Bhakri, this flatbread is prepared on an open flame, allowing it to develop a wonderfully smoky flavor.
Perfect for a wholesome lunch or dinner, Methi Jowar Roti is often served with yogurt or chutneys, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal. The addition of garlic and green chili paste gives it an aromatic kick, while the sesame seeds provide an extra layer of texture and flavor. Whether you cook it on a tawa or directly on an open flame, the result is a crispy, flavorful roti that pairs well with various accompaniments.
Cuisine
Rajasthani, Indian
Course
Lunch, Dinner
Diet
Gluten-Free, Healthy, Vegan
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Methi Leaves (Fenugreek Leaves) | 1 cup, chopped |
| Jowar Flour (Sorghum) | 1 1/2 cups |
| Sesame Seeds (Til seeds) | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, finely minced or grated |
| Green Chilli Paste | 1 teaspoon (you can use red chili paste) |
| Water | As required to make dough |
Preparation Time
5 minutes
Cooking Time
15 minutes
Instructions
-
Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped Methi leaves, Jowar flour, sesame seeds, minced garlic, green chili paste, and salt. Mix these ingredients thoroughly.
- Gradually add water in small amounts, kneading as you go, until the dough becomes soft and pliable. You may need a little more or less water, depending on the absorbency of the flour. Aim for a dough that is not too sticky but also not too dry.
- Once the dough is ready, divide it into 3-4 portions, depending on how large you want your rotis to be.
-
Shape the Roti:
- Dust your work surface lightly with some Jowar flour to prevent sticking. Take one portion of the dough and roll it between your palms into a ball.
- Using your fingertips and palm, gently press the dough ball into a small disc. Pat it out to form a circle about 6 inches in diameter. Don’t worry if the edges are not perfectly smooth – rustic is just fine!
-
Cook the Roti on Skillet:
- Heat an iron skillet or tawa over medium heat. Once hot, place the rolled-out roti onto the skillet. Use your fingers to lightly press the roti into the pan to ensure it cooks evenly.
- Immediately apply a little water over the top surface of the roti. This will help the roti cook well and develop a soft texture.
- After 1-2 minutes, you will notice brown spots appearing on the bottom side of the roti. Use a flat spatula to carefully flip the roti.
-
Cook on Open Flame:
- Now, carefully lift the roti off the skillet and cook it directly on an open flame. Hold the roti with tongs or a pair of tongs and place it on the open flame. Rotate it until you see beautiful brown and black spots developing on both sides.
- You can alternatively cook the roti on the skillet by flipping it back to the tawa after flipping it on the flame, but cooking directly on the flame gives it a traditional, smoky flavor.
-
Serve:
- Once the roti is cooked and both sides have crispy, charred spots, remove it from the heat.
- Repeat the process for the remaining portions of dough.
- Serve the Methi Jowar Roti hot with curd (yogurt), a spicy Red Chilli and Tomato Pachadi, or a healthy Veg Chilli Milli for a truly delightful meal.
Serving Suggestions
Methi Jowar Roti is a versatile dish that can be paired with various side dishes to create a wholesome meal. Here are some serving ideas:
- Curd or Yogurt: The cool and creamy yogurt complements the warmth and slight bitterness of the roti perfectly.
- Chutneys: Serve with Red Chilli and Tomato Pachadi or Coriander Mint Chutney for added flavor and a spicy kick.
- Vegetable Dishes: Pair it with Veg Chilli Milli, a hearty vegetable-based stir-fry, or your favorite curry.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy & Nutritious: With the goodness of fenugreek leaves and millet, Methi Jowar Roti is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It’s an excellent choice for a gluten-free diet and helps with digestion and detoxification.
- Quick & Simple: This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients. In just about 20 minutes, you can enjoy a healthy, homemade flatbread.
- Versatile: Methi Jowar Roti can be enjoyed with a variety of dips, curries, or as an accompaniment to your main dishes.
- Traditional Cooking: Cooking it the traditional way over an open flame imparts a unique, smoky flavor that makes this dish even more special.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Fat | 2 g |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
| Vitamin A | 10% of Daily Value |
| Vitamin C | 15% of Daily Value |
| Calcium | 5% of Daily Value |
| Iron | 12% of Daily Value |
(Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on exact ingredients and portions used.)
Tips for Making Perfect Methi Jowar Roti
- Consistency of Dough: The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a little more Jowar flour; if too dry, add a little more water.
- Don’t Skip the Open Flame: Cooking the roti directly on an open flame enhances the flavor and gives it a unique texture. If you prefer, you can cook it entirely on the tawa, but the smoky flavor from the flame makes it more authentic.
- Storage: These rotis are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container for 1-2 days. Reheat them on a tawa or open flame for the best texture.
Methi Jowar Roti is a wonderful dish that blends health with taste, bringing together the rich, earthy flavors of fenugreek and millet into a comforting, wholesome flatbread. Ideal for those following a gluten-free diet or anyone looking to add more healthy, flavorful meals to their repertoire, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
