Pumpkin Chapati Recipe – A Nutritious Twist on Traditional Indian Bread
Pumpkin Chapati is a delightful and healthy twist on traditional Indian flatbread. By infusing soft, boiled pumpkin (also known as kaddu or parangikai) into the dough, you get a wonderfully soft, flavorful chapati that not only tastes great but is packed with nutrients. This simple and easy recipe is perfect for lunch boxes, especially for children, as pumpkin is a great source of Vitamin C, fiber, and potassium, while also being heart-healthy. The addition of this vibrant vegetable makes each bite nutritious and delicious.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Chapati:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole Wheat Flour | 1 cup |
| Kaddu (Parangikai / Pumpkin), boiled & mashed | 200 grams |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Oil | For kneading |
| Ghee or Oil for Cooking | As required for cooking |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 24 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Fat | 2 g |
| Potassium | 200 mg |
| Vitamin C | 5 mg |
| Sodium | 125 mg |
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Instructions for Making Pumpkin Chapati:
-
Cook the Pumpkin:
Begin by pressure cooking the pumpkin (kaddu) until it’s fully cooked. This will take around 4-5 whistles in a pressure cooker. Once done, let the pressure release naturally, and then mash the pumpkin well. Set it aside to cool slightly. -
-
Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, salt, and the mashed pumpkin. Add a tablespoon of oil and start kneading the mixture by adding water little by little. Continue kneading until you get a firm, smooth dough. -
Rest the Dough:
Coat the dough with a tablespoon of oil and knead it once more. Cover the dough and let it rest for about 15 minutes to allow the ingredients to blend. -
Divide and Roll the Dough:
After resting, knead the dough again and divide it into 8 equal portions. Preheat a heavy iron skillet (tawa) on medium heat. -
Shape the Chapatis:
Take one portion of the dough and roll it into a ball. Flatten it with your palm, then dust it with flour. Roll the dough ball out into a small circle about 3 inches in diameter. Brush 1/4 teaspoon of oil on the rolled dough. -
Fold into a Triangle:
To achieve a perfect triangular shape, fold the circle in half to form a semi-circle, then fold it again into a triangle. Lightly dust the triangle with flour and roll it out gently to form a larger triangle. Repeat this process with the remaining dough portions. -
Cook the Chapatis:
Place the rolled triangle on the preheated skillet. Allow it to cook for a few seconds until air pockets start forming. Flip the chapati over and smear about 1/2 teaspoon of ghee or oil on the surface. Use a flat spatula to lightly press and turn the chapati, ensuring it cooks evenly on both sides. -
Final Touches:
Flip the chapati once more, pressing it gently to ensure the pumpkin chapati becomes slightly crisp with golden brown spots. Remove from the skillet and place it on a serving platter. Repeat this process with the remaining dough portions. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Stack the cooked pumpkin chapatis on top of each other to keep them warm. Serve them hot with your favorite side dishes like Dahi Bhindi (yogurt-stuffed okra) or Carrot and Beans Thoran (a savory vegetable stir-fry).
Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Chapatis:
- Consistency of Dough: If the dough feels sticky, add a little more flour, but if it’s too dry, add a tiny bit of water until it reaches the perfect consistency for rolling.
- Cooking Temperature: Keep the skillet at medium heat to avoid burning the chapatis. Make sure to flip them only when air pockets begin to form.
- Serving Options: These chapatis are delicious when paired with any type of curry, yogurt, or even pickles for a complete meal.
Why You Should Try Pumpkin Chapati:
Adding pumpkin to your chapati dough not only enhances the flavor but also boosts its health benefits. Rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, this chapati is an excellent choice for anyone looking to make their meals more nutritious. Plus, the soft, warm texture is perfect for any meal, making it a favorite among children and adults alike.
Enjoy your homemade, heart-healthy Pumpkin Chapati with family and friends—perfect for a nutritious and satisfying lunch!
