Tawa Paratha Recipe – Crispy, Flaky, and Delicious!
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Main Course
Diet: Vegetarian
Introduction
Tawa Paratha, a versatile and delicious flatbread, is a North Indian favorite. Known for its crispy texture and flaky layers, these parathas are often compared to phulkas, with the added richness of being cooked in ghee on an iron skillet. While similar to Naan and Tandoori Roti, Tawa Parathas are quicker to prepare and can be made in the comfort of your home without the need for a tandoor. Serve them with your favorite curry, dal, or dry vegetable dish for a wholesome meal.
Whether you’re preparing it for a weekday dinner or a special occasion, Tawa Paratha adds a delightful touch to any table.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole Wheat Flour | 1 cup |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Oil (for kneading) | As required |
| Ghee or Oil (for cooking) | As required |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 32 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 4 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 110 mg |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 8 Parathas
Instructions
-
Make the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of whole wheat flour and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
- Add 1 tablespoon of oil and gradually add water, a little at a time, to form a smooth, firm dough. Knead well until the dough is soft and pliable.
- Once kneaded, add an extra tablespoon of oil to coat the dough. Knead again for a minute or two, then cover the dough with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rest for 15 minutes.
-
Prepare the Paratha Portions:
- After the dough has rested, knead it again briefly. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions, rolling each portion into a small ball.
-
Roll Out the Parathas:
- Preheat a cast iron skillet or tawa over medium heat.
- Take one dough ball and flatten it between your palms. Dust with flour, then use a rolling pin to gently roll it out into a small circle, about 3 inches in diameter.
- Brush 1/4 teaspoon of oil over the rolled dough and fold it into a semi-circle. Fold this semi-circle again into a smaller triangle.
- Roll out the triangle into a slightly larger triangle, dusting it lightly with flour to prevent sticking. Repeat this with the remaining dough portions.
-
Cook the Parathas:
- Place the rolled paratha onto the preheated tawa or skillet. Cook for about 30 seconds or until you notice small air pockets forming on the surface.
- Flip the paratha over and smear 1/2 teaspoon of ghee (or oil) on top. Use a spatula to press and turn the paratha gently, helping it puff up.
- Flip again and press down lightly to ensure even cooking. You will see golden-brown spots forming on both sides. Continue cooking until the paratha is crisp and slightly charred in places.
-
Stack and Serve:
- Remove the cooked paratha from the skillet and place it on a platter. Stack the cooked parathas on top of each other to keep them warm and soft.
- Repeat the process with the remaining dough portions.
-
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve your Tawa Paratha hot, along with your favorite vegetable curry, dal, or chutney. It pairs beautifully with dishes like Batata Nu Shaak, Baingan Bharta, or a simple Palak Dal.
- You can also enjoy these parathas with yogurt or pickle on the side for added flavor.
Tips and Variations:
- Flakier Parathas: For extra flaky parathas, you can brush the dough with ghee after each fold and roll.
- Ghee vs. Oil: While ghee adds a rich flavor, you can use oil if you prefer a lighter version.
- Spicy Tawa Paratha: Add finely chopped green chilies or spices like cumin powder or garam masala to the dough for a spicier twist.
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling out.
Conclusion
Tawa Paratha is a simple yet delightful recipe that adds a crispy, flavorful element to any meal. Whether you’re having it with a rich curry or a light dal, these parathas are guaranteed to elevate your dining experience. Enjoy this classic North Indian recipe that’s quick to prepare, yet packed with taste and tradition.
