Ajwain Besan Paratha Recipe (Masala Paratha)
Ajwain Besan Ka Paratha, also known as Masala Paratha, is a delightful Indian flatbread that blends the earthy flavors of gram flour (besan) with the aromatic punch of ajwain (carom seeds). This easy-to-make paratha can be enjoyed as a snack, breakfast, or paired with gravies like dal or curry. It’s a versatile dish that is both satisfying and healthy, perfect for a fulfilling vegetarian meal.
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Indian Breakfast
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole Wheat Flour | 2 cups |
| Salt | To taste |
| Water | As required |
| Oil | As required |
| Ajwain (Carom Seeds) | 2 tbsp |
| Gram Flour (Besan) | 3 tbsp |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 tbsp |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 tbsp |
| Coriander Leaves (Dhania) | Few, finely chopped |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 tsp |
Preparation Time
20 minutes
Cooking Time
20 minutes
Instructions
-
Prepare the Dough:
Begin by making the dough for the paratha. In a large mixing bowl, add the whole wheat flour and a pinch of salt. Gradually add water, a little at a time, and knead the dough until it becomes smooth and firm. This will take about 3-4 minutes. The goal is to create a dough that is soft but not sticky. Drizzle a teaspoon of oil over the dough and knead again for another 1-2 minutes. This extra kneading helps the dough become more pliable, making the parathas soft when cooked. Once done, cover the dough and set it aside for 15-20 minutes to rest. -
Prepare the Filling:
While the dough is resting, prepare the spicy besan (gram flour) filling. In a small bowl, combine the gram flour (besan), ajwain (carom seeds), red chilli powder, turmeric powder (haldi), cumin seeds (jeera), and finely chopped coriander leaves. Add salt to taste. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until you have a well-blended, aromatic mixture. Drizzle a little oil into the mix to bind everything together. -
Roll the Parathas:
Once the dough has rested, divide it into small, lemon-sized balls. Take a rolling pin and roll each ball into a small, 3-inch diameter circle using some flour for dusting. Be gentle while rolling to avoid the dough tearing or the filling oozing out. -
Add the Filling:
Now, place a spoonful of the prepared besan mixture on one half of the rolled-out dough circle. Spread it evenly. Drizzle a little oil over the filling to help it stay in place. Fold the other half of the dough circle over the filling to form a semi-circle. Press the edges gently to seal the filling inside. -
Roll Out the Paratha:
Carefully press the edges of the paratha down to ensure they are sealed. Using the rolling pin, gently roll the folded paratha into a slightly thicker disc. Be cautious not to press too hard, as this may cause the filling to leak out. If it does, just pinch the edges to seal it again. -
Cook the Paratha:
Heat a tawa (griddle) or skillet on medium heat. Once it’s hot, place the rolled-out paratha onto the tawa. Let it cook for about 10-15 seconds, and you’ll see small bubbles starting to form. Flip the paratha to the other side and cook for another 10 seconds. Now, smear some oil or ghee over the top of the paratha and flip it again. Press gently with a spatula to ensure it cooks evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes until both sides are golden brown and crispy. -
Serve:
Once the paratha is cooked, remove it from the skillet and place it on a plate. Repeat the process with the remaining dough balls and filling. Serve the Ajwain Besan Paratha hot with a side of Mango Pickle and Mooli Raita for an extra burst of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Ajwain Besan Paratha is best enjoyed fresh off the skillet, paired with traditional Indian sides like Mango Pickle and Mooli Raita (radish yogurt salad). It can also be served with a variety of curries or dals, making it a versatile dish for lunch, dinner, or breakfast.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 Paratha) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
| Calcium | 35 mg |
Ajwain Besan Ka Paratha is a fantastic way to incorporate the goodness of ajwain (carom seeds), gram flour, and whole wheat flour into your diet, offering a flavorful, spicy paratha with a satisfying texture. This recipe is simple, delicious, and perfect for any time of day, making it a staple in many Indian households. Enjoy the burst of flavors with every bite!
