Thepla Recipe – A Flavorful and Nutritious Indian Flatbread
Thepla is a traditional Indian flatbread made with a variety of flours and spices, known for its vibrant flavor and delightful texture. Packed with nutrients, it is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with chutneys, hummus, or a yogurt sauce. If you’re craving something different from the usual bread, this easy-to-make recipe for Thepla will bring a burst of flavor to your meal. This recipe yields four servings and combines a variety of wholesome ingredients like whole wheat flour, chickpea flour, and fresh spinach, creating a delicious, spiced bread.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour (Farina 00) | 100g |
| Whole wheat flour (Farina integrale) | 200g |
| Chickpea flour (Farina di ceci) | 100g |
| Water | 150g |
| Yogurt | 50g |
| Fresh spinach | 50g |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Ground chili powder | 1 tsp |
| Ground turmeric | 1 tsp |
| Fenugreek seeds | 1 tsp |
| Ground cumin | 1 tsp |
| Olive oil (extra virgin) | 1 tbsp |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sodium | 400mg |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Dough
Start by preparing the dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, and chickpea flour. Add in the salt, chili powder, turmeric, fenugreek seeds, and cumin. Mix everything together until well combined. -
-
Add Liquid Ingredients
Slowly pour in the water, followed by the yogurt and olive oil. Stir continuously until the ingredients start to come together into a dough. -
Incorporate Spinach
Once the dough starts forming, add in the cooked spinach, which should be finely chopped and well-drained to remove excess water. Continue mixing and kneading for about 4 to 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. -
Divide the Dough
Divide the dough into four equal portions, each weighing approximately 80 grams. -
Roll Out the Theplas
Lightly flour your work surface. Take one portion of dough and roll it out into a flat circle, about 10 cm in diameter. Repeat this process for the remaining dough portions. -
Cook the Thepla
Heat a non-stick frying pan or skillet over medium heat. Once hot, place the first rolled-out thepla onto the pan. Let it cook for about 1-2 minutes until you see bubbles forming on the surface. Before flipping, brush the top side with a little olive oil. Flip the thepla and cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown spots appear. Repeat with the remaining theplas. -
Serve and Enjoy
Serve the warm theplas with your favorite accompaniments like mango chutney, hummus, or a tangy yogurt sauce. Enjoy these soft, spiced flatbreads as part of a delightful meal!
Tips and Variations
- You can add other vegetables like grated carrots or finely chopped onions to the dough for added flavor and texture.
- For an extra kick, increase the amount of chili powder to suit your taste.
- Theplas can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days or frozen for longer storage.
Pairing Suggestions
Thepla pairs wonderfully with a variety of dips and sides. You can serve it alongside a refreshing mango chutney, a rich and creamy hummus, or even a yogurt-based sauce with herbs and spices. Whether for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this Indian flatbread makes a perfect addition to your meal rotation.
With its combination of whole grains, flavorful spices, and spinach, Thepla is not just a healthy choice but also a delicious one. It’s a great option for anyone looking to try something new in the kitchen, and its versatility makes it ideal for various occasions. Enjoy it fresh off the pan, or store it for later – this recipe will quickly become a family favorite!
