Mande Roti Recipe (Flavored Pakistani Flatbread)
Mande Roti is a traditional Pakistani flatbread that boasts a unique flavor profile and is often considered a must-try for anyone keen on exploring authentic South Asian cuisine. This flatbread is popular across Pakistan, especially in regions that embrace the warmth and richness of aromatic spices. Infused with the gentle essence of saffron, nutmeg, and cardamom, Mande Roti carries a fragrant aroma as it cooks, enhancing its appeal.
Unlike many other flatbreads, Mande Roti is known for its thin, delicate texture and is rolled out as thinly as possible—reminiscent of the Roomali Roti from Punjab. The dough is kneaded with milk to achieve a slightly sticky yet smooth consistency. This makes it easy to stretch and roll the dough into thin circles, which are then cooked to perfection on a hot griddle. Whether paired with meats or enjoyed on its own, Mande Roti adds a subtle, aromatic twist to any meal.
This delightful bread is perfect as a side dish or an accompaniment to flavorful Pakistani curries, stews, or even grilled meats.
Ingredients for Mande Roti Recipe
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole Wheat Flour | 2 cups |
| Cardamom Powder (Elaichi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Nutmeg Powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Saffron Strands | 6 strands |
| Salt | A pinch |
| Oil | For greasing |
| Ghee | For cooking |
Preparation & Cooking Time
| Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cooking Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
Instructions to Prepare Mande Roti
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Infuse the Saffron: Start by warming the milk in a saucepan over low heat. Add the saffron strands to the milk and stir. Allow the saffron to release its vibrant yellow color and infuse its rich flavor into the milk. This step will give the roti a subtle yet aromatic fragrance as it cooks.
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Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, cardamom powder, nutmeg powder, and salt. Gradually add the warm milk (with saffron), and mix to form a soft dough. The dough should be a little sticky, but smooth and pliable.
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Rest the Dough: Once the dough is mixed, let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the flour to absorb the moisture fully and helps make the dough easier to handle.
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Roll the Roti: After resting, knead the dough once more to ensure it’s smooth and elastic. Pinch off a small portion of the dough, about the size of a golf ball, and dust it lightly with dry flour. Roll out the dough into thin circles, approximately 6 inches in diameter. Be careful to roll the dough as thin as possible without tearing it. Keep dusting with flour as needed to prevent it from sticking to the rolling pin.
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Cook the Roti: Heat a dosa tawa or griddle on medium-high heat. Once the tawa is hot, place the rolled-out dough onto it. In a few seconds, you will start noticing small air pockets forming on the surface of the dough. This is a good sign that the roti is cooking perfectly.
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Flip and Cook: When the air pockets appear, flip the roti to cook the other side. Let it cook for a few seconds until it starts to slightly brown and puff up.
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Add Ghee: Once both sides of the roti are cooked, spread a generous amount of ghee on each side while it’s still hot. This adds richness and flavor to the roti, making it even more delicious.
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Shape and Serve: After applying ghee, fold the roti into a rectangular shape or booklet. This folding technique ensures the roti remains soft and warm, and it also gives it a beautiful texture. Serve hot alongside your favorite Pakistani curries or stews.
Serving Suggestions
Mande Roti pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, especially rich, flavorful curries like Pakistani Bhuna Gosht or hearty stews. To make it a complete meal, finish off with a sweet dessert such as Creamy Phirni—a rice pudding flavored with cardamom and saffron, making it the perfect conclusion to a festive meal.
This simple yet flavorful Mande Roti recipe not only adds an aromatic touch to your table but also brings the authentic taste of Pakistan straight to your kitchen. Enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth texture and the delightful fragrance of saffron and spices that fill your home while cooking!
