Mande Roti Recipe: A Deliciously Flaky Pakistani Side Dish
Mande Roti is a traditional Pakistani flatbread that is both aromatic and flavorful, perfect for accompanying rich curries or stews. With a hint of saffron, the subtle sweetness from cardamom, and the warm spices of nutmeg, this soft and slightly sticky roti offers a delightful contrast to savory dishes. Its delicate layers, enhanced by the ghee, create a truly satisfying experience. Whether you’re hosting a festive meal or preparing a comforting dinner, Mande Roti adds an elegant touch to your table.
Ingredients:
| 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 |
| Sunflower Oil | For kneading dough |
| Ghee | For cooking |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fat | 3g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 60mg |
| Calcium | 15mg |
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings:
- Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine:
- Cuisine Type: Pakistani
Course:
- Course: Side Dish
Diet:
- Diet Type: Vegetarian
Instructions for Making Mande Roti:
-
Prepare the Milk and Saffron Mixture:
Begin by heating the milk in a small saucepan. Add the saffron strands to the milk while it is warming. Stir gently to allow the saffron to infuse the milk, turning it a beautiful golden color. Set this aside to cool to room temperature. -
-
Knead the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, cardamom powder, nutmeg powder, and a pinch of salt. Pour the saffron-infused milk into the flour mixture and begin to mix. Gradually knead the ingredients together to form a soft, slightly sticky dough. Add a little sunflower oil as needed to help in kneading and prevent the dough from sticking too much to your hands. -
Rest the Dough:
Once you have a smooth dough, cover it with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the dough to relax and makes it easier to roll out. -
Roll Out the Roti:
After resting the dough, knead it gently one more time. Take a small portion of the dough and roll it into a ball. Lightly dust your work surface with flour and roll out the dough into a thin, round circle, approximately 6 inches in diameter. If the dough sticks, dust it lightly with more flour. Try to roll it as thin as possible for a flaky texture. -
Cook the Roti:
Heat a dosa tawa (flat skillet) or non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the rolled-out dough onto the skillet. After a few seconds, you will notice small air pockets forming on the surface. Flip the roti to cook the other side. The roti should be golden and slightly puffed up. -
Apply Ghee:
Once both sides are cooked, spread a generous amount of ghee on each side of the roti. This will not only add flavor but also help achieve that signature soft, flaky texture. -
Fold and Serve:
Fold the roti into a rectangular shape, much like a booklet, so that the layers stay intact. Serve the Mande Roti hot, accompanied by your favorite Pakistani dishes like Bhuna Gosht or Chicken Karahi.
Pro Tip:
For easier cooking, it is a good idea to roll out several portions of dough at once. This way, you can cook them in batches, saving time while maintaining the quality of each roti. Additionally, ensure that the skillet is hot enough before placing the roti on it, as this will help the dough puff up and cook evenly.
Serving Suggestions:
Mande Roti pairs wonderfully with a variety of Pakistani and Indian dishes. Serve it alongside spicy curries like Pakistani Bhuna Gosht or a creamy Butter Chicken. It also goes beautifully with side dishes such as Dal Tadka or Aloo Keema. To complete the meal, indulge in a refreshing Phirni (a creamy rice dessert).
Enjoy the rich flavors and textures of this traditional Mande Roti, a perfect side dish that will elevate any meal with its fragrant spices and comforting warmth.
Additional Notes:
Mande Roti is an ideal accompaniment to festive meals, offering a soft and flavorful base to scoop up hearty stews and curries. The gentle sweetness from the cardamom and saffron infuses the dough with a unique aroma that is simply irresistible. Make sure to serve it fresh and hot, and don’t forget to savor every bite with a dollop of ghee for that extra indulgent touch!
